Packers dream mock draft: The perfect haul for Green Bay in 2022

Round 1 (22): George Karlaftis, EDGE, Purdue

Predicting where Purdue edge rusher George Karlaftis will fall depends on the mock draft you read, although many have him going before the Packers’ first pick at No. 22.

Edge rusher is Green Bay’s top need outside of wide receiver. While it’s a deep class at the position, the best opportunity to land a standout edge rusher comes in the first round. Karlaftis could be a game-changer in the Packers’ defense.

“While he needs time to physically mature and complete his game, Karlaftis could potentially be a monster pass rusher at the next level if properly coached,” writes Pro Football Network’s Tony Pauline.

Green Bay would be a perfect landing spot. Karlaftis would give the Packers an immediate upgrade at the number three edge rusher spot, but he would also have time to develop his game behind starters Rashan Gary and Preston Smith.

Karlaftis ticks a lot of boxes the Packers look for, one being athleticism. He has an RAS (Relative Athletic Score) of 9.18 out of 10.

Strong against the run with the potential to become a dominant pass rusher at the next level, Karlaftis would be a great pick at No. 22 if he’s still available.

With their first pick, the Packers solve one of their major areas of need.