Packers: Possible targets on Day 2 of the 2020 NFL Draft
By Jesse Fry
Defense
CB Jaylon Johnson, Utah
Kevin King is on the last year of his rookie deal and Jaire Alexander isn’t far behind him. The Packers are going to have to invest large amounts of money at that position very soon.
One way to help offset that cost is by finding another starting-caliber player in the draft.
Jaylon Johnson is that guy. At six-feet tall, Johnson has the size the Packers usually look for in cornerbacks. And with 4.5-second 40-yard dash speed, Johnson has enough to keep up with the receivers the Packers will face. If Johnson would’ve posted a sub-4.5 it’s possible he goes much earlier. But, while his long speed is adequate, his overall foot speed is top-notch.
With his size and length, Johnson can lock down receivers in bump-and-run and isn’t afraid to get physical. He can develop into a pure lockdown corner.
Johnson could play the boundary this year with King on the other side and allow Alexander to slide inside, or he could be a bigger slot corner.
DT Jordan Elliott, Missouri
If the Packers want to beef up the defensive line, Jordan Elliott could be a great fit.
Elliott has the size and length of a true 5-technique the Packers haven’t really had. Dean Lowry comes close, but Elliott has an inch-and-a-half more wingspan to help shed blockers.
Elliott’s consistency in controlling gaps is something the Packers desperately need. Gap discipline was one reason why the Packers struggled against the run.
Elliott could start in the base along with Kenny Clark and Lowry and move inside on passing downs.
LB Malik Harrison, Ohio State
The Packers added Christian Kirksey but he is far from a sure thing. If the Packers would like to add another inside linebacker with great athletic ability, Malik Harrison fits the bill.
Harrison was the man in the middle of a very talented Ohio State defense and could be the same for the Packers. He has the speed needed (4.66 40-yard dash) and the size to take on blocks.
He still needs some work in pass coverage but has the tools to make it work.