Packers: It’s early, but the 2021 draft class looks strong
By Dillon Graff
As you might recall, former Green Bay Packers GM Ron Wolf stated that going into every draft, his goal was to find at least three solid starters in order to deem it a success. This seems like a decent template to follow considering Wolf is a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
And while it may be too early to tell for certain, if we were to use Wolf’s goal as a benchmark for draft success, the 2021 class looks to be a solid one already.
As it stands, the Packers already have three players who are starting on a team that’s viewed as Super Bowl contenders. Not to mention there are several other members of the class making contributions on the field as well.
Here’s a quick recap of the team’s draft picks that are currently contributing for the Packers:
Round 1: Eric Stokes
Eric Stokes is already the team’s starting boundary corner opposite Jaire Alexander and has looked the part more often than not.
Round 2: Josh Myers
Josh Myers has been the starting center from day one. Myers has looked great and has made the transition from All-Pro center Corey Linsley harder to notice. Myers has potential to be a Pro Bowler in his career.
Round 3: Amari Rodgers
Amari Rodgers is the team’s starting punt returner.
Round 4: Royce Newman
Royce Newman has been the team’s starting right guard all season, beating out several veterans that were ahead of him entering camp.
Round 5: TJ Slaton
TJ Slaton has been used as a rotational defensive lineman at nose tackle.
Round 7: Kylin Hill
Kylin Hill is the starting kick returner, who has made an impact as a return man. Not to mention, he also flashed in the preseason and looked strong at running back.
The season is still young and this is just the first four games of these young players’ careers, but it’s hard not to be happy with the early returns.
This group has already produced several starters and impact performers for the Packers, which is a drastic difference from drafts of years past.
One strong draft can make a difference for a franchise, and while it’s too early to deem this class a home run, let’s hope that the 2021 class continues to build upon their strong showing.