Packers way-too-early 2022 three-round mock draft

Round 2 (62): Christian Harris, LB, Alabama

De’Vondre Campbell is showing the Packers why they need to take the inside linebacker position more seriously. They have generally avoided the position early in drafts, usually waiting until the third day to make a move. But Campbell has completely transformed the defense and helped turn it into a top-10 unit.

Here’s the bad news: Campbell might not be a Packer in 2022. A free agent this spring, Campbell is likely going to be a Pro Bowler and should receive a ton of interest around the league. Given the Packers’ salary-cap limitations, it will be incredibly difficult to compete with other teams when it comes to paying Campbell.

In that scenario, they are very much back at square one. Krys Barnes is having a solid season, but Campbell is irreplaceable in this defense.

If Alabama’s Christian Harris is still on the board when the Packers pick in the second round, he would be a great addition to the defense. Harris can be an impact player in Joe Barry’s defense right away. He’s one of the best inside linebackers in the class.

Much will depend on Campbell’s future, but if he is playing elsewhere in 2022, drafting an inside linebacker early should be a real consideration.