Packers could be about to make a massive mistake in first round of draft

NFL Combine
NFL Combine / Stacy Revere/GettyImages
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After trading Aaron Rodgers to the New York Jets, the Green Bay Packers enter the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft tonight with the 13th overall pick.

The Packers have needs at wide receiver, edge rusher, defensive tackle, and tight end, among others, so it's difficult to predict the direction they could take on draft night.

With the Jordan Love era beginning, the Packers should consider taking the best player available, especially at a premium position, rather than attacking areas of need.

The Packers have three top-50 picks, creating the possibility of a draft-day trade.

However, the Packers could be about to make a huge mistake at No. 13.

Packers Rumors: NFL draft insider gives insight into potential first-round pick

According to Tony Pauline of Pro Football Network, there is "chatter" about the Packers taking a tight end with their first-round pick.

Pauline believes it would be "very early for a tight end", and he's spot on.

Yes, the Packers need a tight end and it's a talented class. But they shouldn't reach for a tight end just because they need one. Moving up two spots in the Aaron Rodgers trade makes no sense if the plan is to take a player at a position the New York Jets and New England Patriots probably wouldn't take anyway.

If the plan is to draft a tight end in the first round, there are other ways to achieve that goal.

One option would be trading down into the 20s. They can still get their tight end, but acquire additional draft capital in the process. Another option would be to make a trade back into the first round. Having two seconds gives them additional flexibility.

Tight end is a position of need, but reaching for one at No. 13 would be a huge first-round mistake.

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