Packers 2022 Draft Prospect Watch: T Bernhard Raimann

In Pro Football Focus’ latest NFL Mock draft, the Green Bay Packers selected Central Michigan offensive tackle Bernhard Raimann with the 28th overall pick.

Raimann is a large tackle, standing at 6-foot-7, 305 pounds, per Pro Football Network. The Packers have established starters at both tackle positions (David Bakhtiari, Billy Turner, and potentially Elgton Jenkins), as well as solid depth if they retain restricted free agent Yosh Nijman.

It’d be strange for them to select a tackle so early in the draft, especially when they have other, larger needs to fill.

Here’s what PFF had to say about the pick:

"“Green Bay’s offensive line was patched together this season and would have looked a lot worse if not for Aaron Rodgers pulling the strings at quarterback. A healthy David Bakhtiari next year will make a big difference, but the Packers could still use some contingency there.Raimann allowed 10 pressures all year with a 94.6 PFF grade and outstanding movement skills. He was a tight end just a few years ago.”"

While it’s true that the Packers’ offensive line was very patchwork last season, it’s untrue that the unit was carried by Aaron Rodgers’ stellar play at quarterback. Per ESPN, the Packers’ offensive line ranked fifth in pass block win rate (66%) and fourth in run block win rate (73%). The Packers’ excellence in their offensive line last season was a testament to their depth, not their quarterback.

It’s unlikely that the Packers would spend a first-round pick on a player that would most likely sit on the bench next year, especially if Rodgers returns for another season. However, if Rodgers is traded, it’s possible that the Packers would want a young, talented left tackle to develop alongside 2020 first-round quarterback Jordan Love.

Raimann has excellent athleticism for a player of his size, able to burst off the line as a run blocker, and is very good at getting to the second level. He also has very good lateral quickness, which is paramount for a player of his size. Additionally, he has shown the ability to recover and regain position if he makes a mistake.

Raimann has shown proficiency in his ability to use his size to his advantage, proportioning his weight well in order to absorb power with a strong base. He also has excellent footwork, his feet very rarely standing still.

It would help Raimann to add some weight to his frame, helping him to stand up better against elite NFL power rushers. His length is also only average, especially for his height. Additionally, he tends to stand too far upright while blocking.

With that being said, Raimann feels like a prototypical Brian Gutekunst offensive tackle prospect. He has excellent size and athleticism, and the potential to become an elite NFL offensive tackle. While tackle isn’t a need for the Packers, if Gutekunst decides that Raimann is the best player on the board, there’s a good chance that he selects him.