Packers 2020 mock draft roundup: Defense dominates in first round
Fixing the Green Bay Packers’ run defense appears to be the top priority in a number of mock drafts.
For much of the offseason, a wide receiver to the Green Bay Packers in the first round has been popular in mock drafts. Interestingly, many mocks have switched to defense up first.
Of the five mock drafts in this week’s roundup, zero have a receiver being chosen first by the Packers.
Given the depth at the position, I can understand why. Just as important is improving against the run, and that’s a common theme in this week’s mock draft roundup.
FanSided, Brad Weiss
Kenneth Murray, LB, Oklahoma
Brad Weiss of FanSided has the Packers addressing their biggest defensive concern in his latest mock draft. Kenneth Murray is one the best linebackers in the class along with Isaiah Simmons and Patrick Queen, and he’d add much-needed speed to Mike Pettine’s defense. Murray would be an ideal replacement for free agent Blake Martinez, but he has the potential to become a better player.
It remains to be seen whether Murray will still be available when the Packers hit the clock, but if he is, the Oklahoma linebacker would be a great choice.
NFL.com, Charley Casserly
Raekwon Davis, DT, Alabama
Upgrading at inside linebacker is one way the Packers can address their struggling run defense. The other would be to improve the defensive line, which is what Charley Casserly of NFL.com has them doing by selecting Raekwon Davis out of Alabama.
Davis could help the run defense improve, although some draft analysts believe he is a Day 2 prospect.
CBS Sports, Chris Trapasso
Patrick Queen, LB, LSU
As mentioned above, Patrick Queen is also one of the top linebackers in the class. Chris Trapasso of CBS Sports has him falling to the Packers.
Queen should be one of the top performers at his position in the 40-yard dash at this month’s NFL Combine, and he’s exactly the type of player the Packers need on defense. Queen could make an immediate difference for the Packers.
Sports Illustrated, Kevin Hanson
Patrick Queen, LB, LSU
Another pick for Queen, this time by Kevin Hanson of Sports Illustrated. I’d be on board with this pick at No. 30.
The Draft Network, Benjamin Solak
Austin Jackson, OT, USC
Finally, some offense. But not a wide receiver here, either. Offensive tackle could also be a major need depending on Bryan Bulaga‘s future, and this is a good class for the position. In the first round, Benjamin Solak of The Draft Network has the Packers going with Austin Jackson out of USC.
Solak noted that Jackson could take some time to develop into a consistent starter, but given the fact that Bulaga is a free agent, going tackle early would make sense.