Packers select cornerback in latest FanSided mock draft
The Green Bay Packers need a cornerback, and Josh Jackson is the pick at No. 14 in the latest FanSided mock draft.
New general manager Brian Gutekunst has a lot to think about in the coming weeks. Should he try to trade up if one of the draft’s top defensive players like Tremaine Edmunds or Derwin James makes it to the 10th overall pick?
That’s a possibility. Gutekunst might also decide to stay put at No. 14 no matter what, knowing there will be plenty of defensive talent available when the Packers hit the clock. If there is an early run of quarterbacks, it will only help matters.
If Gutekunst decides against attempting to move up, Josh Jackson could be the choice at No. 14.
That’s how Brad Weiss of FanSided sees it playing out. He has Jackson to Green Bay in his latest mock draft.
"“The last time the Packers were in the playoffs, they were shredded by Matt Ryan, and if they get back there this season, they will be much better off with a guy like Jackson at one of their cornerback slots,” Weiss wrote."
Jackson’s 40-time has him slipping down a number of analysts’ draft boards, but he is without a doubt one of the top cornerbacks in this class. The 6-foot-1, 192-pound corner made an incredible eight interceptions last season.
Jackson could be a great addition to Mike Pettine’s defense. But don’t just take my word for it. Packers Pro Bowl defensive tackle Mike Daniels wants Jackson in Green Bay, calling him “one of the greatest secrets in football”.
“He’s going to be the next great one,” Daniels said on NFL Network’s Good Morning Football last month.
“He’s coming in right now with some fire. He’s going to make some plays. Kevin King on the opposite side of him, and my young guy Josh Jones.”
Maybe Daniels will get his wish.
There’s a good chance Jackson will still be available when the Packers pick at No. 14. Will Gutekunst agree with Daniels’ assessment?
So far this offseason, the Packers have traded away arguably their best corner in Damarious Randall, but brought back Tramon Williams in free agency.
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While cornerback is arguably the team’s top priority, Gutekunst will also be looking to upgrade the pass rush in the draft. Names like Harold Landry and Marcus Davenport could come into play in the first round.
What are your thoughts on Josh Jackson at No. 14?