NFL Mock Draft: Packers use Aaron Rodgers pick to replace Jordan Love

Seven quarters into the Green Bay Packers' 2023 season, they looked like playoff contenders. After making easy work of the Chicago Bears, the Packers held a 12-point lead over the Atlanta Falcons and were on track for a perfect start to the Jordan Love era.

In the 13 quarters that followed, Packers opponents have outscored them 81-51, with Green Bay's only victory coming after a stunning fourth-quarter comeback.

The Packers have a lot to prove in their first game after the bye. They take on the Denver Broncos. A loss would put Matt LaFleur's team 2-4 and in real trouble.

Jordan Love threw six touchdowns and no interceptions in the first two games of the season, but he has thrown two touchdowns and six picks in the three games that followed. If Love doesn't turn things around between now and the end of the season, Green Bay may have to add competition in the draft.

Packers put Jordan Love on notice in 3-round mock draft

Round 1

Picking ninth overall, the Packers would likely miss out on the top quarterback prospects like Caleb Williams and Drake Maye unless they are willing to pay a ridiculous price to trade up. Rather than reaching for another quarterback, Green Bay strengthens its offensive line.

Tackle is among the Packers' top offseason priorities. David Bakhtiari could return to Green Bay next year, but his future is uncertain after a season-ending injury and a $40 million cap hit in 2024. The Packers need to find their successor to Bakhtiari.

Rasheed Walker has shown promise despite some struggles this season, while Zach Tom has excelled at right tackle. However, Green Bay shouldn't pass on the opportunity to land a future star like Notre Dame's Joe Alt.

Alt is 6-foot-8, 315 pounds, and has outstanding athleticism for his size. He is a phenomenal pass protector and would solve some of the run-blocking issues the Packers have faced this season.

"Joe Alt has the physical stature, movement skills, and on-field play that screams franchise left tackle," writes The Draft Network's Damian Parson.

Alt is an ideal David Bakhtiari replacement. He can become the Packers' next long-term left tackle. His arrival would give Green Bay more flexibility and depth with Rasheed Walker and Zach Tom. They could move Walker to right tackle and have Tom play inside or have them compete for the starting job.

Alt and Elgton Jenkins would give the Packers a dominant left side of the offensive line.