Packers address defense in FanSided post-Super Bowl mock draft

In the latest FanSided mock draft, the Green Bay Packers address their top defensive needs in the first round.

If there’s one thing the Super Bowl showed us, it’s the importance of a strong defense. The Green Bay Packers defense made improvements in 2018, but still has a long way to go.

In Brad Weiss’ post-Super Bowl mock draft for FanSided, he has the Packers strengthening the pass rush and secondary in the opening round. Finding upgrades at edge rusher and safety is key for this defense to take the next step.

With the 12th overall pick, Weiss has the Packers selecting Michigan edge rusher Rashan Gary. With the 30th selection, Green Bay selects Alabama safety Deionte Thompson.

Gary only had 3.5 sacks in nine games this past season, but he has the potential to become a star.

Green Bay strengthened the cornerback position last offseason, and this year the focus is at safety. Deionte Thompson could be the answer with the team’s second selection in the opening round.

Draft analysts have differing opinions on where Thompson will be selected. But he is a talented player and one of the top safeties in the class. Michael Kist of Bleeding Green Nation has Thompson ranked second among safeties this year. Kist wrote:

"“For the most part his tape shows a solid player with the requisite range to play single-high safety without issue. He also flashes a willingness as a physical tackler, though his technique lacks form. When given the chance to show his ball skills, Thompson does not disappoint.”"

Green Bay has to find an upgrade at safety this offseason after not re-signing Morgan Burnett then trading away Ha Ha Clinton-Dix this past season.

Thompson could be a good fit for Mike Pettine’s defense, and he could be available at No. 30 in the first round.

The Packers could also have options at safety in free agency. Earl Thomas and Landon Collins are set to hit free agency, although it’s still possible they re-sign.