Packers add cornerback, tackle in three-round mock draft

It’s going to be interesting to see the Green Bay Packers‘ plans in the 2021 NFL Draft. Free agency will have an impact, especially if star players Aaron Jones and Corey Linsley sign elsewhere.

With over a month to go until this year’s draft, I’ve created my latest attempt at a mock for the Packers. It’s three rounds long and I was able to address some of the team’s top needs.

To put this mock draft together, I used Pro Football Focus’ mock draft simulator.

Round 1 (29): Greg Newsome II, CB, Northwestern

The Packers found a star cornerback when they drafted Jaire Alexander in the first round three years ago. They could find another if they select Greg Newsome II.

The Northwestern corner can develop into a great player in the NFL, and he’s one of the best at his position in this year’s class.

According to Pro Football Focus, Newsome allowed a passer rating of just 31.7 in his coverage last season, best of all power five defenders. Not only is he an excellent cornerback, but he also ran a 4.31 40-yard dash at his Pro Day.

Round 2 (61): Jalen Mayfield, T, Michigan

With David Bakhtiari’s injury and Rick Wagner being released this offseason, there is some uncertainty at the tackle position entering 2021.

But never fear, as one of the best tackles in the class fell to the second round of this mock. NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah has him ranked 25th in the entire class, writing that Mayfield can be a “Day 1 starting right tackle”.

Two potential starters for the Packers with their top two picks, and both have a ton of potential.

Round 3 (92): Kenneth Gainwell, RB, Memphis

If Aaron Jones doesn’t re-sign, the Packers will lose one of their most explosive offensive players.

Enter Kenneth Gainwell. Averaging 6.3 yards per carry in 2019, Gainwell is an elusive running back and can also contribute as a receiver in a big way.

The Packers would miss Jones’ receiving ability, but Gainwell can make up for that. He had 610 receiving yards and three touchdowns in his final season at Memphis and could see regular snaps in the slot for the Packers.

Gainwell can play on all three downs and would be a perfect complement to AJ Dillon in the backfield.