Packers rookie grades: Every draft pick ranked from worst to best at bye week
The early returns for the Green Bay Packers' rookie class are promising. Green Bay has a young roster and needed immediate contributions from its draft picks. As the Packers begin their bye week, general manager Brian Gutekunst must be pleased with what he has seen.
Five rookies have started multiple games this season, while others have made vital contributions off the bench.
It's the perfect time to evaluate the rookie class, with the Packers five games into a new era and on their bye week. We have graded every draft pick and ranked them from worst to best after five games.
Note: This is not a ranking of the best players but the best picks. It factors in draft value and the contributions they've made so far.
13. Lew Nichols, RB
Grade: F
Drafted: Seventh round
Lew Nichols is the only Packers draft pick not still on the 53-man roster or practice squad. A shoulder injury kept Nichols out of the preseason, limiting his opportunities to land a roster spot. Undrafted rookie Emanuel Wilson impressed during the summer and earned a roster spot, and the Packers waived Nichols with an injury settlement.
12. Grant DuBose, WR
Grade: Incomplete
Drafted: Seventh round
Due to injury, Grant DuBose missed a significant chunk of the summer, including the start of training camp. He returned to play two preseason games, catching three passes for 35 yards. DuBose didn't make the 53-man roster but was signed to the practice squad. He is a player for the future.
11. Sean Clifford, QB
Grade: Incomplete
Drafted: Fifth round
Sean Clifford played a handful of snaps in the fourth quarter of the Packers' blowout win over the Chicago Bears, but he didn't attempt a pass. He did get extended playing time in the preseason, completing 41 of 57 passes for 391 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions. Clifford is a young QB to develop, and he exceeded expectations in the preseason.
10. Anthony Johnson, S
Grade: Incomplete
Drafted: Seventh round
Anthony Johnson hasn't played this season, but the Packers clearly believe in his potential. They made room for him on the 53-man roster ahead of free-agent signing Tarvarius Moore. Johnson needs time to develop, but he will be a player to watch next summer.