2024 NFL 4-Round Mock Draft: Packers hit home run with star receiver, fix secondary

Round 3 (91): Mike Sainristil, CB, Michigan

The plan going into the mock draft simulator wasn't to draft three straight Michigan players, but here we are. The Packers have overlooked the slot corner position for far too long, and it's about time they changed that.

Keisean Nixon is an All-Pro returner and made some plays on defense, but he isn't the long-term answer as the Packers' No. 1 slot corner. Jaire Alexander has the ability to play inside, but his history of shoulder injuries is a concern. Alexander can lock down top receivers in his current role on the outside.

Michigan's Mike Sainristil would give Green Bay a significant upgrade in the middle of the defense.

Sainristil is a former wide receiver, and it's evident when watching him play. He is a game-changer. In his final season at Michigan, Sainristil made six interceptions, including two pick-sixes.

Sainristil would go against the Packers' typical cornerback size thresholds, but they should make an exception at the slot corner position. They need a player who can match up with the league's best slot receivers—Sainristil has the potential to do that.

He would add physicality and is a willing run defender. His ability to cover receivers in the slot and force turnovers is exactly what this Packers defense needs.