Packers trade for star receiver in 3-round mock draft 2023

Round 1 (15): Lukas Van Ness, EDGE, Iowa

Going all-in with Aaron Rodgers doesn’t necessarily mean drafting an offensive player in the first round.

The Packers desperately need to strengthen their pass rush, and they could achieve this by selecting Iowa’s Lukas Van Ness with the 15th pick.

“Van Ness is a worthy Round 1 prospect, with immediate alignment versatility and blue-chip upside as a chess piece on the defensive line,” wrote Pro Football Network’s Ian Cummings.

Van Ness can be a star in the NFL and would immediately help Green Bay’s pass rush.

With Rashan Gary missing about half of the regular season, the Packers’ defense only made 34 sacks. Gary’s return will help the pass rush next year, but Green Bay needs to get him some more help.

It’s unclear when Gary will return from injury in 2023. If the Packers are all-in, their defense needs to be ready to go in Week 1.

Van Ness could start next to Preston Smith until Gary returns. This trio could be tough to stop down the stretch and into the playoffs.

Championship defenses have multiple players who can consistently rush the passer. The Packers were unable to generate enough pressure in 2022. By adding Van Ness, the Packers could significantly upgrade their front seven.