Packers upgrade secondary with Denzel Ward in latest mock draft
In the latest NFL Spin Zone mock draft, the Green Bay Packers select cornerback Denzel Ward in the first round.
If Ward is still available when the Packers hit the clock with the 14th overall pick in four days time, new general manager Brian Gutekunst should sprint to the podium. Ward is arguably the top cornerback in this year’s draft class, and could go a long way to fixing the Packers’ secondary.
In the latest NFL Spin Zone mock draft, Dan Schmelzer predicts an early run on quarterbacks, with four passers selected before the Packers make their first pick.
With four quarterbacks gone, Green Bay would effectively own the 10th pick in the draft. And considering how much defensive talent there is early on, they would have a great chance to add a difference maker at No. 14.
Here is what Schmelzer wrote about the selection:
"“Ward is a fantastic athlete at the cornerback position. He shows ridiculous natural speed and quickness on the outside that allows him to be creative and aggressive in coverage. His ability as a man-to-man defender is awfully impressive, as Ward showcases a strong skill set in press and off-man coverage.”"
You can find the full NFL Spin Zone two-round mock draft here.
In the second round of the mock, the Packers trade down with the Kansas City Chiefs. In return for the 45th overall pick and an additional sixth-rounder, Green Bay receives the 54th overall pick and two fourth-rounders. Sounds good to me. They then select edge rusher Lorenzo Carter at No. 54.
In the opening two rounds, the Packers would have addressed their two biggest needs, while also acquiring even more picks. This would give Gutekunst a ton of flexibility, potentially helping him move up in the third round.
While it’s uncertain whether Ward will make it to No. 14, I love his potential and think he could be a major piece of Mike Pettine’s defense. A Ward-Kevin King duo at cornerback would be exciting. If he somehow makes it to 14, it would be a dream scenario for the Pack.
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If Ward is a gone, it’s possible another defensive back like Minkah Fitzpatrick or Derwin James is still available when Green Bay hits the clock.