Packers land tackle in first round of 2021 mock draft

Tackle could be a need for the Packers next offseason, which is the direction they go in the first round of NFL Spin Zone’s latest mock draft.

Wide receiver will likely once again be a need for the Green Bay Packers in next year’s draft. Inside linebacker? That’s possible, too. But don’t forget about offensive tackle.

At this point, it’s not 100 percent clear who will be the starting right tackle this season. Ricky Wagner should be considered the frontrunner but it’s no guarantee he’ll be the starter in the season opener. Another option would be for Billy Turner to slide to right tackle with Lane Taylor starting at right guard.

Then there’s another big issue for next offseason: David Bakhtiari is a free agent. And with an expected reduced salary cap in 2021, it might not be as simple for the Packers to re-sign the four-time All-Pro.

With that in mind, Cody Williams of NFL Spin Zone has the Packers selecting a tackle in the first round of his early 2021 mock draft. With the 25th pick in the draft, Green Bay selected Texas offensive tackle Samuel Cosmi.

The Packers would still be able to get some pass-catching help later on in what could be another deep receiver class. However, we did say that this year.

If the Packers are unable to re-sign Bakhtiari, they could possibly be searching for two new tackles in 2021.

It remains to be seen how the 2021 NFL Draft could be affected by the coronavirus pandemic. Will there be a college season? How many star players will opt out? This could have a huge impact on next year’s draft, perhaps meaning that having more picks becomes all the more important. Being able to build through the draft will be important if the salary cap is reduced.

For the Packers, that might mean starting over at tackle in the first round.