Packers 2019 mock draft: Both sides of the ball addressed in first round

Pick 25: Philadelphia Eagles

Juan Thornhill, S/DB (Virginia)

There are without a doubt more pressing needs when you take a look at the Eagles roster, but after the debacle the Eagles went through last season in their defensive backfield, I would expect them to address this area early.

Juan Thornill is a player they are able to move all around their defense. He can roam as a free safety, he can play up in the box effectively, can cover up in the slot, and in a pinch (like we saw often with the Eagles defensive backfield last season) he could even play corner on the outside.

His film was already impressive enough, then he went and posted insane numbers at the NFL combine, making him one of the best defensive backs in this draft and easily one of my favorite players in the draft. Look for Thornhill to make an immediate impact as a rookie.

Pick 26: Indianapolis Colts

N’Keal Harry, WR (Arizona St.)

Now that the Colts have found some success rebuilding their defense and offensive line, they can focus on bringing in more weapons for Andrew Luck. They brought in Devin Funchess on a one-year deal, but it’s unlikely they plan on keeping him around after that.

Harry will look to be the answer along with T.Y. Hilton at receiver. Harry is superb after the catch creating yards, provides a large target for Luck (6-foot-2, 228 pounds), while being able to out-jump most of his opponents — all of which makes Harry dangerous in contested situations. Harry could send this offense over the edge.

Pick 27: Oakland Raiders

Josh Jacobs, RB (Alabama)

The Raiders signed Isaiah Crowell this offseason, while also retaining Jalen Richard and DeAndre Washington; but none of those options are going to be the future workhorse running back for the Raiders.

Josh Jacobs gives the Raiders an every-down back who is exceptional in the run game, running with both power and outstanding vision, while also being able to be effective in the passing game. In the past, the Raiders have relied on a power back such as Marshawn Lynch to handle the between-the-tackles work, while using Jalen Richard in the passing game and on third downs. Bringing in Jacobs would cover all those bases and allow for a more dynamic offense.

Pick 28: Los Angeles Chargers

Dexter Lawrence, DT (Clemson)

Dexter Lawrence would be the third Clemson defensive lineman taken in the first round of this draft, which could be the first time a college team has ever had that many players from one position group taken in the first round. Crazy stuff.

But let’s get back to the Los Angeles Chargers. They are a team with few holes, hence the reason they are picking so late in the first round. One hole where they could surely get better is their interior defensive line.

Brandon Mebane is nearing the end of his career and will most likely be gone after the 2019 season. Lawrence could be a great heir apparent to Mebane. He is a mountain of a man, at 6-foot-4 and 342 pounds. With his size and power, he will eat up blockers in the middle of the defensive line and create log jams to clog up running lanes.