NFC North power rankings: Packers still on top after 2020 NFL Draft?
1. Green Bay Packers
The Packers draft class hasn’t been received too well among fans and analysts, but they are still the best team in the NFC North. Last season, only two teams finished with a perfect 6-0 record inside their division: the Green Bay Packers and Kansas City Chiefs. That’s not bad company to be in.
Of the players Green Bay lost in free agency, only Bryan Bulaga has played close to an elite level in his career. The Packers didn’t lose a player on the level of Darius Slay or Stefon Diggs.
GM Brian Gutekunst had a quiet free agency period, addressing needs with low-risk signings. They’ve made four in total: linebacker Christian Kirksey, right tackle Rick Wagner, wide receiver Devin Funchess, and defensive tackle Treyvon Hester.
In the draft, the Packers upgraded their run game, which is important in Matt LaFleur’s system. AJ Dillon is a powerful running back who will give defenses in the NFC North problems. Josiah Deguara will also help the ground game improve.
Missing out on the top wide receivers was a mistake, both in free agency and the draft. Failing to make big moves at defensive tackle and inside linebacker may also be a regrettable decision.
Next. Packers 53-man roster predictions following the draft. dark
It’s absolutely fair to say the Vikings and (to less extent) the Lions closed the gap at the top of the NFC North, but this division still goes through Lambeau Field.