The Green Bay Packers surprised everyone with its exciting but unexpected draft class.
Nobody thought Brian Gutekunst would go all-out on offense in the opening two days, drafting two wide receivers and a tackle. Even Gutekunst said he didn't expect to add two pass-catchers, but that's how the board fell.
It's never a bad idea to support your young franchise quarterback, but the Packers' draft actions will have significant re-actions across the roster. Only time will tell how impactful this rookie class will become, but the addition of talented players adds increasing pressure to veterans on the roster.
These three Packers players are on thin ice after the 2025 NFL Draft
Rasheed Walker, T
Rasheed Walker's success is an incredible story. He suited up in one game as a seventh-round rookie and contributed just four special-teams snaps. By Week 2 of his second season, Walker was the Packers' starting left tackle and replacing five-time All-Pro David Bakhtiari.
Walker is a starting-level left tackle, which is a huge compliment, but the Packers have sent a clear message in back-to-back draft classes.
Matt LaFleur made it clear that last year's first-round choice Jordan Morgan will compete with Walker for the starting job this season, and that was before the Packers used a second-rounder on Anthony Belton.
Walker's rookie deal expires at the end of the season, and Green Bay has telegraphed his departure with its recent moves.
Sean Rhyan, G
Sean Rhyan could also depart at the end of his contract next spring. Rhyan followed a similar path to Walker's in that he barely played as a rookie before earning a starting job.
The Packers threw money at Aaron Banks in free agency and spent a second-round pick on Belton. They will be long-term starters along the offensive line. So will Morgan, the 25th pick in last year's draft. Zach Tom will almost certainly become one of the league's highest-paid tackles in the relatively near future, while Pro Bowler Elgton Jenkins isn't going anywhere.
Where does that leave Rhyan? There's a good chance Morgan or Belton will take over the right guard job at some point. It's up to Rhyan to ensure it doesn't happen this season.
Christian Watson, WR
Christian Watson is recovering from a torn ACL that could keep him out for a significant portion of the season. He then faces uncertainty over his Packers future, with his rookie contract winding down. It doesn't help that Green Bay drafted two wide receivers, including Matthew Golden, who could take on many of Watson's duties while he's out.
Golden ran a 4.29-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine, and it's easy to see why many view him as Watson's long-term replacement.
Watson is a game-changer when healthy, but he has battled injuries throughout his three-year Packers career. The idea of re-signing Watson and pairing him with Golden long-term would give defenses nightmares, but it might be wishful thinking. Watson's future beyond 2025 is far from certain.