Packers should consider drafting tight end in first round

Drafting a tight end in the first round isn’t usually a great idea, but the Green Bay Packers should consider making an exception this offseason.

Seven-time All-Pro tight end Travis Kelce was picked in the third round. Four-time Pro Bowler George Kittle was a fifth-round pick. Pro Bowler Darren Waller was a sixth-round pick, while three-time Pro Bowler Mark Andrews was a third-round pick.

It’s possible to find great tight ends on Day 2 or 3 of the draft.

But this year, it could make sense for the Packers to draft a tight end early.

If free agents Marcedes Lewis and Robert Tonyan don’t re-sign with the Packers, tight end will be Green Bay’s clear number one offseason need.

The Packers have needed a game-changing tight end for years. Now more than ever.

If Aaron Rodgers returns, a first-round tight end could help make an immediate difference on offense. If Rodgers goes and the Jordan Love era begins, the Packers could find a long-term starter who could become one of Love’s top targets.

Multiple tight ends could be selected in the first round, including Utah’s Dalton Kincaid, Notre Dame’s Michael Mayer, and Oregon State’s Luke Musgrave.

Kincaid is an excellent pass-catcher. Mayer does everything well. He would start immediately in Green Bay due to his blocking and receiving ability. Musgrave also has the potential to become a great starting tight end.

On Day 2, Georgia’s Darnell Washington could make sense for Green Bay. He could play the Marcedes Lewis role, dominating as a blocker while also helping as a receiver.

Not only is tight end a huge need for the Packers, but it’s a good tight end class.

Usually, drafting a player at a position like offensive tackle, edge rusher, or cornerback makes sense early. But this year, adding a tight end in the first couple of rounds could make sense for the Packers.