Top 5 bold predictions for Packers in the 2023 NFL Draft
3. Packers draft Darnell Wright at No. 15 overall
The Packers drafting an offensive tackle in the first round might not seem all that surprising, but picking Tennessee's Darnell Wright ahead of Ohio State's Paris Johnson Jr. and Georgia's Broderick Jones is.
Many mock drafts have Wright going in the second round, but the same was true this time last year about Quay Walker and two years ago about Eric Stokes. Wright will go far higher than many expect him to.
But don't just take my word for it. Projected top-five pick Will Anderson Jr. said that Wright is the best tackle he played against in college.
Alabama edge rusher Will Anderson, a likely top-five pick, says that Tennessee’s Darnell Wright is the best OT he faced in college. Anderson mentioned how much better Wright got year-to-year. Pointed to his ability to mirror rushers and anchor at his size.
— Evan Lazar (@ezlazar) March 1, 2023
There's good reason why Anderson feels that way. Wright dominated in their matchup.
"His tape against Alabama's Will Anderson Jr. was outstanding, as he allowed only one pressure in that game and eight for the season," wrote Michael Renner of Pro Football Focus.
Wright at No. 15 feels like the type of pick the Packers make. He is an outstanding athlete, earning a Relative Athletic Score of 9.67 out of 10. He plays at a premium position and could start from Day 1 in Green Bay.
Wright also had a pre-draft visit with the Packers. It makes far too much sense.