The Green Bay Packers' desire to add a defensive tackle isn't exactly a secret. Naturally, New York Giants star Dexter Lawrence has become a dream target following his trade request, though another option is seemingly taking shape: Lee Hunter.
Green Bay reportedly brought in Hunter for a pre-2026 NFL Draft visit. It's worth noting that the Packers conducted a formal interview with him at the annual NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis back in February. Their first meeting was "very smooth," according to the Red Raiders standout (h/t Gery Woelfel of Woefel's Press Box).
Considering the Packers don't really do smokescreens, their interest in Hunter appears to be genuine. The club has typically selected players they host under general manager Brian Gutekunst. With that in mind, it's not surprising to hear the two sides cross paths again — and possibly once more come draft day.
Packers host Texas Tech DL Lee Hunter for telling pre-2026 NFL Draft visit
There's a decent, if not good, chance Hunter isn't available when the Packers are first on the clock with the No. 52 overall pick. He's the No. 43-ranked prospect on FanSided's Big Board. Nevertheless, Green Bay is ostensibly intrigued by his potential fit in their defense, and understandably so.
Even after signing veteran Javon Hargrave this offseason, the Packers can use more size up front. The team is set to deploy a 3-4 scheme under new defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon, so having multiple big-bodied guys can't hurt. Enter Hunter, a 6-foot-3-and-a-half, 318-pound space-eater.
Hunter hurt his stock with a poor showing at the "Underwear Olympics," which could prove to work in the Packers' favor. However, less-than-ideal measurables aren't a definitive predictor of success at the next level. Perhaps this allows him to fall right into Green Bay's lap in the middle of the second round.
What Hunter lacks in speed and explosiveness is counteracted by a massive frame. His outstanding 6-foot-9 wingspan and strength allow him to shed blocks and disrupt opposing backfields at will. He demonstrated what makes him an exciting target for the Packers throughout his final collegiate campaign with Texas Tech.
Across 14 games in 2025, Hunter amassed 41 tackles (10.5 for loss) and 2.5 sacks en route to earning AP Third-Team All-American honors. His efforts earned him a strong 80.5 overall Pro Football Focus grade, good for 39th out of 887 qualified interior defenders.
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