ESPN draft expert names Packers best fit for dream first-round pick

Some years, a draft prospect just feels like the perfect fit for a specific team. Christian Watson to the Green Bay Packers had to happen last year.

Jaxon Smith-Njigba is that player in 2023.

The Ohio State wide receiver is the best prospect at his position in this year's class, and he has everything the Packers need.

ESPN's Matt Bowen named the best team fits for running backs, wide receivers, and tight ends in this year's draft. He believes Smith-Njigba would be a great fit in Green Bay, and it's hard to disagree.

Packers, Jaxon Smith-Njigba would be the perfect match in 2023 NFL Draft

Due to picking late in the first round, the Packers missed out on some of the top receiver prospects in recent years. Justin Jefferson, Brandon Aiyuk, Garrett Wilson, and Chris Olave were all selected before the Packers hit the clock.

This year, they own the No. 15 selection, putting them in perfect position for Smith-Njigba.

The Packers may have to be prepared to trade up for the Ohio State star, but it wouldn't cost them a boatload of picks to do so. And Smith-Njigba is well worth it.

"Smith-Njigba reminds me of Amon-Ra St. Brown," wrote Daniel Jeremiah of NFL Network.

It's easy to envision Smith-Njigba playing a similar role in Matt LaFleur's offense. Last season, St. Brown ranked seventh in the NFL for receptions with 106. Smith-Njigba could be a reception machine in the slot.

According to Pro Football Reference, St. Brown ranked ninth in the league for yards after the catch with an impressive 516.

In Green Bay, Smith-Njigba could line up primarily in the slot, where he would become Jordan Love's best friend with catch after catch after catch.

Where is Jaxon Smith-Njigba projected to get drafted?

Smith-Njigba will likely be selected somewhere between the 10th and 15th picks. Things will get very nervous for Packers fans when the Houston Texans (No. 11), Tennessee Titans (No. 12), and New England Patriots (No. 14) hit the clock.

Houston owns the No. 2 pick, which it will presumably use to draft a quarterback. It could then use the No. 11 selection to add a receiver. Tennessee and New England also need receiver help.

Perhaps the New York Jets at No. 13 could come into play after missing out on Odell Beckham Jr. However, a tackle would make more sense for New York.

The Packers have a shot at landing Smith-Njigba at No. 15, but are they willing to wait, hoping he falls? If not, they may need to move up a few spots.