5 star players the Packers could’ve drafted in past five years

3. WR Deebo Samuel (2019)

Our time machine takes us back to the 2019 NFL Draft.

The Packers had used the 12th overall pick to select edge rusher Rashan Gary, a decision that has paid off in a huge way. They also owned the 30th pick from the New Orleans Saints, which Brian Gutekunst used to trade up nine spots to select safety Darnell Savage.

Savage has turned out to be a good pick for the Packers. He has been a starter at safety for three seasons.

However, Green Bay could have drafted All-Pro wide receiver Deebo Samuel, and wouldn’t have even needed to trade up from No. 30.

Samuel went at No. 36 overall to the San Francisco 49ers, just six selections on from the Packers’ original pick.

Samuel has become one of the best offensive playmakers in the NFL. Not just a wide receiver. He can make plays no matter where he is lined up on offense.

This past season, Samuel was named a first-team All-Pro and Pro Bowler. He had a total of 1,770 all-purpose yards and 14 touchdowns.

Pro Football Focus ranked Davante Adams and Samuel among the top three wide receivers from the 2021 season. The Packers could’ve had both of them on their roster, catching passes from Aaron Rodgers.

Savage turned out to be a good pick. Samuel would’ve been a great one, and the Packers wouldn’t have needed to trade up.