Packers 2023 three-round mock draft with Aaron Rodgers trade

CLEMSON, SOUTH CAROLINA - SEPTEMBER 11: Quarterback Corey Fields Jr. #2 of the South Carolina State Bulldogs throws the ball while pressured by defensive end Myles Murphy #98 of the Clemson Tigers during the second quarter during their game at Clemson Memorial Stadium on September 11, 2021 in Clemson, South Carolina. (Photo by Jacob Kupferman/Getty Images)
CLEMSON, SOUTH CAROLINA - SEPTEMBER 11: Quarterback Corey Fields Jr. #2 of the South Carolina State Bulldogs throws the ball while pressured by defensive end Myles Murphy #98 of the Clemson Tigers during the second quarter during their game at Clemson Memorial Stadium on September 11, 2021 in Clemson, South Carolina. (Photo by Jacob Kupferman/Getty Images) /
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It’s time to build for the future around Jordan Love. In this 2023 three-round mock draft, the Green Bay Packers trade Aaron Rodgers to the New York Jets and enter the Love era.

The focus shifts to the future. No longer are the Packers running it back to win now, but they can focus on the bigger picture, finding long-term starters at premium positions.

Let’s begin. I used Pro Football Focus’ mock draft simulator to put this together.

Packers 2023 three-round mock draft: Aaron Rodgers trade

A win-win deal for both sides. The Jets get four-time MVP Aaron Rodgers, who can be the missing piece they have needed.

Green Bay lands two premium picks, helping to rebuild around Jordan Love.

Round 1 (13): Broderick Jones, T, Georgia

I know, another Georgia player in the first round. But Broderick Jones is well worth it. Jones is a powerful, dominant tackle, and he is a great athlete.

Jones can be an outstanding starter for many years. In Green Bay, he could begin at right tackle before eventually replacing David Bakhtiari on the left side.

Round 1 (15): Myles Murphy, EDGE, Clemson

The Packers strengthen the pass rush with another possible future star in Myles Murphy.

“Murphy has a rare blend of size, length, explosion, and fluidity that makes him a challenge to block throughout the course of a game,” wrote The Draft Network’s Kyle Crabbs.

Murphy may need some time to develop, but that’s no problem in Green Bay. He could begin his career as a backup behind Rashan Gary and Preston Smith.

It was a similar story for Gary when he was drafted in 2019. He had time to develop, and he’s now one of the league’s top pass rushers.

Round 2 (43): Jalin Hyatt, WR, Tennessee

Christian Watson made a significant impact for the Packers this season, and Jalin Hyatt could also contribute immediately. Like Watson, Hyatt would add game-changing speed to Green Bay’s offense.

“He has easy speed, destroying cushions immediately, and he can find another gear with the ball in the air,” wrote NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah.

Round 2 (45): Darnell Washington, TE, Georgia

After missing out on Michael Mayer, Dalton Kincaid, and Luke Musgrave, the Packers are still able to land a talented tight end on Day 2.

Darnell Washington would be the perfect replacement for Marcedes Lewis. He is an excellent blocker and would make life so much easier for Jordan Love. When Washington is on the field, it’s like having a tackle who can also catch passes.

He had 454 yards and two touchdowns last season at Georgia.

“In-line tight end with rare size and power at the point of attack to help soften defensive edges up front,” wrote NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein.

Round 3 (78): Christopher Smith, S, Georgia

I promise, the plan of this mock draft wasn’t to keep selecting Georgia players. But, then again, Brian Gutekunst keeps doing it, so maybe this mock will come true.

Christopher Smith’s versatility would help him get on the field early, and the Packers could find the best role for him in Joe Barry’s defense.

“He has impact starter potential early in his career as a free safety with slot capabilities,” wrote Pro Football Network’s Ian Cummings.