Packers make big splash in seven-round mock draft

Round 1

The Heisman Trophy-winning receiver fell to me at 13. I know there are some concerns about his size and his durability at the NFL level. He is 6-foot-1, but weighs only 175 pounds. Tyreek Hill is just 5-foot-10 and 185. There are plenty of smaller receivers in the league who can stay healthy. I don’t think his size is going to be too much of a problem.

A part of Smith’s draft profile from The Draft Network:

"“A polished route-runner, he has a well-developed understanding of how to create separation and he also contains a diverse release package when facing challenges at the line of scrimmage.”"

A guy like Smith would give the Packers an instant threat outside of Davante Adams in the passing game. It would also get fans off of Gutekunst’s back about not getting Rodgers weapons. This would be a home-run pick for the Packers to start off the draft.

Round 2

I think we are all ready to move on from Kevin King. But now there is a big gap on the field opposite Jaire Alexander. The Packers really don’t have much of a choice, they need to add someone. One option would be to add a veteran corner, maybe someone like Richard Sherman or A.J. Bouye, or Patrick Peterson, but that would be a more expensive option, especially if they can find some money and bring in J.J. Watt.

I think drafting a cornerback is likely the Packers’ best option, and if he’s available, Greg Newsome would be an excellent choice.

Draft profile from The Draft Network:

"“Greg Newsome II is an exciting cornerback prospect who will offer an NFL franchise plenty of appeal as a potential starter on the perimeter. Newsome II has showcased strong ball skills and length to pair with high-end levels of flexibility and functional athleticism—that’s a blend that is going to get Newsome II drafted sooner rather than later.”"

Newsome would be an ideal replacement for King. According to his draft profile, his ideal scheme would be zone-based, and would an ideal role for him would be a starting outside cornerback.

Round 3

I think it’s time to face the fact that the Packers won’t be bringing Corey Linsley back. The All-Pro center will likely cost too much money for the Packers to retain him. There are plenty of in-house options to replace him. Lucas Patrick is the likely candidate to slide over and play center. We all know Elgton Jenkins could do it, but I don’t think the Packers want him there.

In this mock draft, Oklahoma center Creed Humprey dropped to the 92nd pick. If a quality center drops to them in the third round or later, I would imagine the Packers would definitely take a look.

One knock you could find against Humphrey is his athleticism. The Packers are known for drafting athletic and versatile linemen, but if Humphrey is available, I could see them giving him a shot.