Packers 2020 mock draft roundup: Different options at No. 30
This mock draft roundup highlights just how many different directions the Green Bay Packers could go in on draft day.
The Packers fell one game short of the Super Bowl but they still have a number of needs to address on both sides of the ball.
It’s always interesting to see how the draft analysts see things playing out in April. There’s still a long way to go in the draft process, but for now, this gives us an idea of who might be available with the 30th overall pick.
And the Packers could go in a number of directions with their first selection.
NFL Spin Zone, Dan Parzych
Mekhi Becton, OT, Louisville
In a mock draft for NFL Spin Zone, Dan Parzych has Green Bay strengthening the offensive line. This isn’t being talked about as a major need for the Packers, but perhaps it should be.
If Bryan Bulaga walks in free agency, right tackle would become an issue on offense. With such a deep pool of talent at wide receiver to choose from on Day 2 and beyond, adding a tackle in the first round would make a ton of sense.
Mekhi Becton is one of the best players in the entire class. Even if Bulaga re-signed on a short-term deal, Becton could be the future at right tackle should he fall to No. 30.
Bleacher Report, Kristopher Knox
Javon Kinlaw, DT, South Carolina
Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report has the Packers looking at the defensive line in this mock draft. Again, completely understandable. Green Bay’s run defense was humiliated in the NFC Championship Game, allowing 285 yards and four touchdowns on the ground.
Getting stronger up front needs to be a priority, and the Packers could look to give Kenny Clark some help on the defensive line in the first round.
Whether it’s offensive or defensive tackle, adding a big guy up front on either side of the ball works in the first round.
CBS Sports, Josh Edwards
Cole Kmet, TE, Notre Dame
Another offseason goes by with tight end remaining a need for the Packers.
If Jace Sternberger makes a second-year jump in 2020, they will be in good shape at the position. But depth could be an issue with Marcedes Lewis and Robert Tonyan set to hit free agency, and the Packers could decide to release Jimmy Graham this offseason.
With that in mind, Josh Edwards of CBS Sports has Green Bay adding Notre Dame tight end Cole Kmet in his latest mock draft. If the Packers brought back one of Lewis, Tonyan or Graham also, they would have good depth at the position entering 2020.
NFL.com, Daniel Jeremiah
Laviska Shenault, WR, Colorado
Wide receiver is arguably the Packers’ biggest need this offseason, but given the depth at the position in the draft, they don’t necessarily need to go in this direction on Day 1.
But that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t. Daniel Jeremiah of NFL.com has the Packers adding one of the top playmakers in the class in his latest mock. As Jeremiah noted, Shenault can line up anywhere, and that includes at running back.
I love the idea of the Packers doubling down at the position in this draft class, but starting with Shenault on Day 1 would be a perfect start. He could make an immediate impact in Matt LaFleur’s offense.