The Green Bay Packers haven't changed their approach much despite heading into the 2026 NFL Draft without a first-round selection, per general manager Brian Gutekunst. That's why the club bringing in Arizona State offensive lineman Max Iheanachor for a 30 visit got fans excited, but let's slow down here.
It's easy to see where Iheanachor fits into Green Bay's current situation. Their front five lacks depth and proven starters, specifically at the tackle spots. They could use his services, though the Packers' odds of landing him took a sizable hit in light of recent intel from ESPN's Jeremy Fowler.
There figures to be a run on edge protectors on Day 1 of this year's festivities in Pittsburgh. Fowler identified four prospects who could hear their name called anywhere in the "first 15-17 picks." While Iheanachor wasn't mentioned, he becomes more likely to be taken in the top 32 if other options aren't available — at the Packers' expense.
Packers' hopes of drafting Max Iheanachor may be unraveling faster than expected
Simple supply and demand might do the Packers in. Francis Mauigoa (Miami), Spencer Fano (Utah), Monroe Freeling (Georgia), and Kadyn Proctor (Alabama) are all generating buzz. The latter two have "worked their way into [the] conversation," according to Fowler, potentially prompting another team to snag Iheanachor before it's too late.
If there's anything we've learned about the Gutekunst-led Packers, it's that they really don't do smokescreens. The franchise has historically chosen guys they host under his watch. With that in mind, their interest in Iheanachor is seemingly real, albeit probably for naught.
Gutekunst has made it clear that he's not afraid to climb the board if an opportunity arises. So, the idea of Green Bay trading up for Iheanachor, the No. 36-ranked player on FanSided's Big Board, wasn't far-fetched until now. However, Fowler's reporting suggests the Sun Devils standout may not be anywhere near the Packers' reach.
Iheanachor didn't start playing football until 2021, but he burst onto the scene at Arizona State last season, earning 2025 Second-Team All-Big 12 honors. His solid frame and elite blend of speed and explosiveness make him an appealing target for the Packers. He posted a spectacular 9.86 Relative Athletic Score (RAS), good for 24th out of 1,645 offensive tackles since 1987.
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