Dream draft target is likely no longer Packers-bound after 2024 NFL Combine

The NFL Scouting Combine isn't the be-all and end-all. It's part of the process. However, the results can have an impact on the Green Bay Packers' draft plans.

The Packers have size and athletic thresholds, especially in the early rounds of the draft. While they do occasionally make exceptions, they stick to their philosophy far more often than not.

Athleticism is important to the Packers throughout the draft, especially early on. There is a correlation between early-round Packers draft picks and high Relative Athletic Scores (RAS).

Of the 15 first- and second-round draft picks by general manager Brian Gutekunst, 13 received an elite score, and 11 scored at least nine out of 10. The only player below that number was wide receiver Jayden Reed, who earned a 6.74 RAS. Josh Myers didn't have a score as there wasn't enough testing data.

Again, NFL Combine results don't guarantee the Packers will or won't draft a player, but history suggests it's a factor. And that could end the dream of landing one of the top defensive linemen in the class.

Packers likely won't draft T'Vondre Sweat after NFL Scouting Combine performance

Texas defensive lineman T'Vondre Sweat was a popular choice for the Packers in mock drafts, and understandably so. Sweat is an outstanding run defender who could help a Packers defense that allowed 128.3 rushing yards per game in 2023.

However, Sweat's unofficial Relative Athletic Score of 3.90 out of 10 likely ends any hopes of the Packers drafting him unless he falls to Day 3.

Most mock drafts have Sweat going in the opening two rounds, which likely rules out the Packers.

Sweat would be an excellent pick for the Packers for his ability to stop the run and make life easier for the players around him. He can take on double teams, which allows the other defensive linemen and linebackers to make plays.

But the chances of Sweat landing in Green Bay likely decreased dramatically at the NFL Combine. The Packers would have to make an exception to their typical athleticism thresholds to draft Sweat in the opening three rounds.

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