Packers: 8 players worth trading up for in 2023 NFL Draft

Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame

Projection

Mid-to-late first round

Overview

Michael Mayer is one of the best tight ends in the class. There's no doubting his talent and how he could help the Packers' offense. But at No. 15? That's a little early.

However, various mock drafts have Mayer falling to the bottom of the first. Daniel Jeremiah of NFL Network has Mayer going to the New Orleans Saints at No. 29 in his recent mock.

According to DraftTek's trade value chart, Green Bay could move into that range from No. 45 by giving up its third-round pick.

And let's be honest -- chances are the Packers are going to waste that third-rounder. The last time a Packers third-round pick was given a second contract in Green Bay? Morgan Burnett. He was drafted in 2010, when Michael Mayer was nine years old.

Mayer does everything well. He can block, he can catch. He can help the Packers' offense. Draft him, and Green Bay's search for a TE1 would be over. Mayer is ready to start in the NFL and would be a reliable target for Jordan Love in the passing game.

If he falls to the bottom of the first round, should the Packers give up the No. 45 and No. 78 picks to get him? Absolutely.