Packers build for future without Kenny Clark in 4-round mock draft

Green Bay Packers, Kenny Clark
Green Bay Packers, Kenny Clark / Kayla Wolf/GettyImages
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Round 2 (58): Kris Jenkins, DL, Michigan

The Packers' draft decisions could provide clues about Kenny Clark's future. Using an early pick along the defensive line—which isn't a significant need—could foreshadow Clark's departure in free agency next offseason.

A name to watch on Day 2 is Michigan's Kris Jenkins.

Jenkins was a second-team All-American and second-team All-Big Ten, playing an important role in Michigan's national championship success. He is an outstanding run defender, which is an area the Packers must improve after allowing 128.3 rushing yards per game last season, the fifth-worst record in the NFL.

The Packers have plenty of interior pass-rush options, even if we don't include Clark. Devonte Wyatt and Karl Brooks combined for 9.5 sacks and 16 quarterback hits last season. What they desperately need is better play against the run, which Jenkins would provide from Day 1. That's not to say he can't take his pass-rush game to the next level, but his biggest strength is his ability to stop the run.

Jenkins continues the theme of drafting players with elite Relative Athletic Scores. He impressed at the NFL Combine and earned an RAS of 8.99. Jenkins ran a 4.91-yard 40-yard dash, put up 29 bench press reps, and posted a 9.7-inch broad jump. He would upgrade the Packers' defensive line immediately and could be Clark's eventual replacement.