Packers make big trade in 2023 two-round mock draft

Round 2 (46): Darnell Washington, TE, Georgia

Tight end could be one of the Packers’ top needs this offseason, as Robert Tonyan and Marcedes Lewis are free agents.

Lewis would be tough to replace if the Packers don’t re-sign him this spring.

With his excellent blocking ability, Lewis often plays like a sixth offensive lineman in Matt LaFleur’s offense. He has been so important for the offense under LaFleur.

GM Brian Gutekunst loves drafting players from Georgia. He selected Eric Stokes, Quay Walker, and Devonte Wyatt, all in the first round over the past two years.

Maybe Darnell Washington can become his next draft pick from Georgia.

Washington is 6-foot-7, 270 pounds, which would give either Aaron Rodgers or Jordan Love a big target in the passing game.

If Love takes over as QB1 in Green Bay, Washington could become a reliable target for the young quarterback.

Where Washington could particularly help the offense is with his dominant blocking ability. The Packers will need that, especially if they lose Marcedes Lewis and Allen Lazard. Washington’s blocking would get him on the field early in his career, and he can also offer plenty as a pass catcher.

Washington could fly up draft boards in the next couple of months and go as high as the first round, but with him falling to No. 46 in this mock draft, it was an easy choice.