The 20th anniversary of LouisEly nutting the 2006 Packers draft in real-time

[LouisEly]

Some of you were there.  Back in the Brewerfan.net days.  Watching the draft on the live chat feature.  No pre-draft write-up; just calling out names before the pick.

A.J. Hawk was a given.  They needed OL and liked athletic guys and Daryn College fit the mold.  They traded back and passed on Chad Jackson, but they still needed a WR, and this guy Greg Jennings was available.  3 for 3 so far.

Abdul Hodge, Jason Spitz, and Cory Rodgers were kind of out of left field.  But then came their second 4^th round pick.  They needed CB depth and also needed a kick returner, and there was this Will Blackmon guy who filled both of those needs.  Boom.

Then came the coup de grace.  The Packers needed a backup QB.  They also needed a punter.  And there was this QB from Furman college who was also a good punter – Ingle Martin.   I think I got Tony Moll too, but after Ingle Martin, it was already mic drop.

And the legend was born. 

Don’t know if I’m going to keep doing this much longer, as I definitely put less effort into this than I have in a while.  But can’t let that 20^th anniversary go unrecognized.

And here we go…

 

2^nd Round (#52): Domonique Orange, DT, Iowa State - #25 on Bruce Feldman’s annual Freaks List, Big Citrus is stout at the point of attack and has the anchor to play landlord over the A-gaps.  Iowa State’s defense called for him to clog up lanes and eat up blockers and not necessarily make plays, so he didn’t fill up the stat sheet, but he had 33 run stops and 5 TFLs over the last two seasons and 45 pressures over the last 3 seasons.  Good length with almost 34” arms to take advantage of short-armed iOL.  With the shift back to the running game in the NFL and the “tush push”, big run-stopping DTs have been going much higher than they have in the past and the Packers need one.  Orange has pre-draft visits with the Bears and Vikings, so if the Packers really like him – and they attended his private workout – they may need to draft him here rather than risk him going to a division rival.  (Replaces Colby Wooden)

If he’s still available: Christen Miller, DT, Georgia – yes, the Packers have drafted a lot of players from Georgia, but last I checked, they’re usually in the CFP and the Eagles have drafted more.  Over the last two years Miller has the highest run defense grade of any interior DL in all of college football.  Has the upper-body power and heavy hand strikes to shed OL as well as the quickness to be a gap penetrator and split double-teams.  Like Orange, he didn’t play in a scheme that featured him and asked him to make plays, and he’s much more solid than spectacular.  But, unlike Orange, he went up against NFL caliber OL every day in practice and every week in the SEC.  Loves football, is very talkative in meetings, and always has a smile on his face.  Played mostly the B-gap, but has over 250 snaps in the A-gap.  If he’s still there at #52, it would be a shock if he’s not the pick.

Don’t be surprised if it’s: Dani Dennis-Sutton, Edge, Penn State – if you look at Gutey’s history, he invests in one position more than any other – edge rusher.  Between drafting Gary and Van Ness, signing the Smiths as free agents, and trading for Parsons, it’s clear that he believes that pass rush wins games (and makes CBs look better).  Sutton looks every part the prototypical edge rusher at 6’6”, 256, with nearly 34” arms and at the combine put up a vertical and 3-cone time that made half the WRs in attendance blush.  Over the last two seasons he’s racked up 17 sacks, 25 TFLs, 6 PBUs, 56 run stops, and 96 pressures.  Wasn’t always the most disciplined player on the edge, but has a high motor.  The Packers have to make a 5^th year decision on Van Ness in a few weeks and at this point it’s hard to imagine they pick up the option if they didn’t pick it up for Walker.  And with Parsons possibly starting the season on the PUP, they may need an extra body there who is ready to step in and has some juice.

 

3^rd Round (#84): Daylen Everett, CB, Georgia – the other thing that Gutey loves is speed, and Everett has plenty of it, running a 4.38 at the combine.  Great size, length, and density at 6’1”, 196, with almost 32” arms, Everett has run-through pop when he wants to dial it up.  Effective at reading and jumping routes from short zones.  Started 41 games at Georgia and has played in plenty of “bright lights” games.  Allowed too many pitch-and-catch throws in front of him and has been known to be a little grabby at times.  (Replaces Nate Hobbs)

If he’s still available: Davison Igbinosun, CB, Ohio State – three-year starter at Ohio State, which in their CB room says something, and at 6’2” with nearly 33” arms, Igbinosun has the ideal frame and length to disrupt WRs at the catch point and at the top of their routes.  Does not back down in run support, and is physical in coverage but sometimes too much as he had a lot of penalties in 2024.  But he cleaned that up in 2025 and wasn’t charged with a single TD against by PFF for a 42.6 passer rating against.  Brings an edge with him that rubs off on the rest of the CB room.

Don’t be surprised if it’s: Bryce Lance, WR, North Dakota State – Athletic marvel with two seasons of outstanding production to back it up – over his last two seasons combined for 2,157 receiving yards and 25 TDs.  Dropped a few jaws at the combine, running a 4.34 40 with a 1.49 split, 41.5” vertical, 7.00 3-cone, and 4.15 shuttle at 6’3”, 204.  The agility scores show that he can handle stop routes, can adjust to back-shoulder throws, and blue-chip ball tracking and hand strength to finish on deep throws.  Needs to diversity and develop his release, and there will be an adjustment to seeing NFL corners on every snap.

 

4^th Round (#120): Trey Zuhn III, OL, Texas A&M – Zuhn was a four-year starter at LT for the Aggies who took reps at the Senior Bowl at center as most believe that his lack of length as well as his strong anchor will push him inside.  Great first-step quickness to reach lateral landmarks and is able to mirror rushers while maintaining base width.  The Packers are set with their starting OL but need better backups, and Zuhn is a guy who many believe could play all along the line with the experience to backup at LT.  PFF credited him with a 96.8 pass block grade in 2025 - 5.2 points higher than any other OL in the draft - so while he isn't the ideal LT, he can certainly play there.  (Replaces Rasheed Walker)

If he’s still available: Drew Allar, QB, Penn State – the other position Gutey believes in investing in before it’s too late is QB.  He said he wanted to get back to drafting QBs and he’s done exactly that, drafting two in the last three years.  Elite frame that looks like it was assembled in a QB factory and an effortless arm that can make any NFL throw.  Inconsistent touch and ball placement have shown up, can be a little slow to process, and his injury last year dropped him off of the radar a bit.  But there is big-time upside here.  If he has to play right away he will not succeed; but, if a team can sit him for at least a year, preferably two, he has all the tools to become a great QB, and GB has the luxury to do that.  One thing Gutey learned from TT is to have the next QB before you need him.

Don’t be surprised if it’s: Charles Demmings, CB, Stephen F. Austin – small-school CB who is not small (6’1”, 193, 32” arms), Demmings put himself on the map with his combine performance running a 4.41 with a 42” vertical and 11” broad jump.  Physical press CB who uses his length to disrupt timing and his speed to stick in the WR’s hip.  Really attacks the receiver’s hands to disrupt, and had good production with 9 career INTs but against lesser competition.  Below-average run support and more of a drag-down tackler.  The Packers don’t need a starting CB this year, so it wouldn’t surprise me if they didn’t pick one until day 3 and took a highly athletic developmental player like Demmings to backup for a year.

 

5^th Round (#153, from Eagles for Wicks): Jeff Caldwell, WR, Cincinnati – trade a WR, draft a WR with the pick you receive.  Simple enough.  Caldwell has physical traits that will make any GM and OC salivate – big (almost 6’5”, 216), fast (4.31 40, 1.48 10-yard split), explosive (42” vertical), and has a surprisingly good level of twitch and agility.  Big hands (9 3/4”) and can pluck the ball out of the air (sometimes with one hand) as well as track it.  But the technique and route running is poor – he’s always been the biggest and fastest and that’s always been good enough.  Didn’t have big production at Cincy, was 3^rd in receptions on the team last year and they had a good QB.  Will need to put a lot of work into his release and route running.  (Replaces Dontavyion Wicks)

If he’s still available: Pat Coogan, C/G, Indiana – all Coogan has done over the last two years is be the starting center for two different schools who went to the national championship game and went a combined 27-1 while ranking 12^th and 19^th in rushing yards per game.  Good size, extremely high football IQ, and strong team leadership.  Technically sound and consistent in centering opponents with good grip strength.  Has limitations stretching beyond the A-gaps and has short arms, but so does Tanor Bortolini and Tanor’s now a top-10 center.  First OL named Rose Bowl MVP, and started 13 games at LG for Notre Dame as a sophomore, so he has positional flexibility.  If the Packers aren’t sold on Monk as the backup center, Coogan could very well be on their radar.

Don’t be surprised if it’s: Brandon Cleveland, DT, NC State – stubby but stout, Cleveland is a dog who fights hard to muddy up the A-gaps.  Naturally strong, heavy hands capable of quickly controlling and shedding blockers, and can burrow low and explode into double-teams looking to split them.  Can make plays behind the LOS, as evidenced by his 7 TFLs last season.  Rarely see him knocked to the ground or even off-balance.  Played more in the B-gap this year but has played more A-gap in his career.  Doesn’t offer much in pass rush and showed up a little light at the combine, but can collapse the pocket, had 32 pressures over the last two seasons, and word is the Packers like him.

 

5^th Round (#160): Will Kacmarek, TE, Ohio State – when you get late in the draft you look for guys who do one thing really well, and with Kacmarek it’s being that old-school big-bodied in-line blocking TE.  Size (6’5.5”, 260), strength, and plays with a lineman’s demeanor.  Not going to offer much as a receiving TE, kind of lumbering, but catches what is thrown his way.  Has over 350 special teams snaps and will be able to step in right away as a blocking TE and on special teams.  Transferred up from Ohio to OSU, only 23 catches in two seasons for the Buckeyes.  (Replaces John FitzPatrick)

If he’s still available: Jordan van den Berg, DT, Georgia Tech – van den Berg wasn’t really on anyone’s radar other than a late 7^th/UDFA until he absolutely nuked his pro day.  6’3”, 310, ran a 4.94, 36” vertical, 4.17 short shuttle, and 35 reps on the bench, good for a perfect 10.00 RAS, #2 of 2,270 all-time.  Transferred to GA Tech from Penn State, and while not known for his pass rush, he improved it in 2025 going from 1 sack, 4 hits, 13 pressures in 2024 to 3 sacks, 5 hits, 29 pressures in 2025.  The bench numbers suggest he has the strength to develop into a 1-tech, but the athleticism reminds me of Scott Matlock who the Chargers converted to a fullback.

Don’t be surprised if it’s: Sawyer Robertson, QB, Baylor – NFL size (6’4”, 216) with pro traits and arm talent to make all the throws, Robertson has a quick release and good velocity behind his throws.  Adequate poise to stand and deliver in the face of pressure and trusts his OL to do their job.  Subpar touch, timing, and accuracy though, and has a little too much Mahomes in him in not a good way (tries to make sidearm throws he can’t make).  The upside is there, but will need a couple of years of work from a good QB coach.

 

6^th Round (#201): Fernando Carmona, OL, Arkansas – the Packers rarely draft guys who played guard in college; the last one was Simon Stepaniak in the 6^th round in 2020 and the last one before that was Caleb Schlauderaff in the 6^th round in 2011.  But Carmona played LT for three years before moving inside to OG his senior year, and the Packers like guards with OT experience.  Physical, plays with an edge - sometimes too much of an edge as he collected a few personal fouls, but that’s what makes him a mauler in the run game.  Positional flexibility - was asked to take snaps at center at the combine, and can fill in at LT in an emergency.  Was one of only six players at the combine who participated in all seven athletic drills, which tells you a lot about his character and willingness to do what is asked of him.   (Replaces Elgton Jenkins)

If he’s still available: Dallen Bentley, TE, Utah – one year wonder at TE, but Utah has had a few good ones the last few years who he’s been stuck behind.  Showcased his athleticism at the combine running a 4.62 40 at 253 lbs.  Eerily similar to Tucker Kraft’s combine measurements and performance – both are 6’4”, Kraft weighed 254 and Bentley 253, and both ran a 4.62 40.  Quickly enters his routes, reliable hands and body control, and had zero drops on 76 targets last year.  Has the frame and effort to become a good blocker, but didn’t do so consistently and was more of a “get in your way” blocker.

Don’t be surprised if it’s: Kaelon Black, RB, Indiana – there’s some smoke to the Packers looking at RB, and it’s going to hinge on how they evaluate Lloyd and his ability to stay healthy.  Black is a bowling ball of a RB at 5’9”, 211, with contact balance and leg drive that let him average almost 3.5 yards after contact.  Reportedly ran a 4.45 at their pro day, but wasn’t invited to the combine.  Only caught 8 passes over two seasons for Indiana, but caught 34 in two seasons for James Madison, and is already over 24 years old having spent six seasons in college.

 

7^th Round (#236): Toriano Pride, Jr., CB, Missouri – undersized CB (5’10”, 185) with decent length (31” arms) and blistering speed (4.32 40, 1.51 split).  Played outside for Missouri and more than held his own in the SEC, holding receivers to 20 catches on 45 targets for 194 yards with 2 TDs and 2 INTs, good for a 53.4 passer rating against.  Physical and aggressive from press, finds openings to snake his hands into the catch point, and toughness is not an issue in run support, but will get dragged for additional yardage and tends to bite on release fakes.  Might need to move into the slot.  (Competes with Hadden, Bartholomew for roster spot)

If he’s still available: Mikail Kamara, Edge, Indiana – Kamara was one of the darlings of the 2024 Indiana team, posting 10 sacks and 68 pressures.  Sack production fell off big time in 2025 with only 2 sacks, but still generated 59 pressures, and was not invited to the Combine.  On the shorter side (listed at 6’1”) and already over 24 years old, but does have special teams experience on his side as he blocked the punt in the national championship game that put Indiana in front for good. 

Don’t be surprised if it’s: J. Michael Sturdivant, WR, Florida - started off with a bang as a freshman at Cal with over 700 yards receiving, but never took the next step and regressed a little every year while bouncing around to three teams (which isn't that uncommon anymore).  Height/weight/length/speed prospect (6'3", 207, almost 33" arms) who popped a cool 4.40 with a 39" vertical, he can get on top of DBs quickly, is good at tracking the ball, and isn't afraid to go over the middle.  Routes need better attention to detail, could use a little more strain in run blocking, and you have to wonder why he never came close to producing what he did as a freshman.

 

7^th Round (#255): Michael Heldman, Edge, Central Michigan – Heldman didn’t do much his first three seasons, combining for 8.5 sacks and 17.5 TFLs.  Then he blew up his senior year with 10.5 sacks, 16.5 TFLs, and backed it up with his pro day with a 4.70 40, 40” vertical, 7.05 3-cone, 4.31 short shuttle, and 29 reps on the bench, good for a 9.90 RAS at 6’4”, 265.  With Parsons possibly starting the season on the PUP, the Packers could use an extra body at edge and one they might need to try to sneak back on the practice squad once Parsons is ready.  (Competes with Cox/Mosby for roster spot)

If he’s still available:  Deven Eastern, DT, Minnesota – big bodied DT with a big wingspan, Eastern played a lot of NT for Minnesota and it took an Act of Congress to move him off of his spot.  Raw power to control his gap and the quickness off the snap to get into the backfield, also uses his length to disengage.  Plays with too high of a pad level to stay at NT which resulted in him ending up on the ground too often, and didn’t offer much for pass rush.  I’ve heard the Packers like him, probably as an early-down 3 or 5-tech.

Don’t be surprised if it’s: Miles Kitselman, TE, Tennessee – at 6’5”, 251, he’s built like an in-line TE and acts like it as he does not shy away from run blocking duties.  Needs to play with better hand placement and pad level, but keeps his feet chopping and can deliver some pop as a move blocker.  Runs a decent route tree and has above-average play speed, but had issues with drops and double-catches in 2025 that did not show up on the tape in 2024.

 

Last four out: Sam Roush, TE, Stanford; Romello Height, Edge, Texas Tech; Ephesians Prysock, CB, Washington; Drew Shelton, OT, Penn State

 

UDFAs:

Behren Morton, QB, Texas Tech
Damon Bankston, RB/KR, New Mexico State
Chip Trayanum, RB, Toledo
Tanner Arkin, TE, Illinois
Kajiya Hollawayne, WR, Temple
Anthony Smith, WR, East Carolina
Jake Pope, OT, Illinois State
Josh Gesky, OG, Illinois

Anterio Thompson, DT/FB, Washington (don’t be surprised if they try to convert him to fullback after he ran a 4.73 at 306 lbs on their pro day)

Josiah Green, DT, Duke
Nikko Taylor, Edge, Oregon State
Jayden Dugger, LB/Edge, Louisiana
Trent Hendrick, LB, James Madison
Malcolm DeWalt IV, CB, Akron
Karon Prunty, CB, Wake Forest
Jacob Thomas, S, James Madison
 

[GAME05]

These are always great. Every year I never bother reading analysts because your reviews are always better. And I suspect if we went back, more accurate, too.

[patrickgpe]

congrats on 20 years and I am certain i have read all 20. I can't go as far as you do, but I did find 2 players that just seem to fit in as Packers. So I will throw them out and see what happens.

52: Chris Brazzell II, WR, Tennessee 

84: Tacario Davis, CB, Washington

 

[docduany]

Thank you!! Look forward to reading this every season. 

[LouisEly]

On 4/17/2026 at 11:22 AM, patrickgpe said:

congrats on 20 years and I am certain i have read all 20. I can't go as far as you do, but I did find 2 players that just seem to fit in as Packers. So I will throw them out and see what happens.

52: Chris Brazzell II, WR, Tennessee 

84: Tacario Davis, CB, Washington

 

I went round and round between Davis, Ephesians Prysock, and Demmings for the 4th round CB.

With the Packers, it's not so much about height (they drafted Jaire Alexander at 5'10.5") as it is about density (Alexander was 192 lbs).  They don't draft the really skinny CBs.  Davis is 194, but at almost 6'4", he's on the skinny side.  Demmings is the same weight, but at 6'1".  That, and Davis' hamstring injury last year may tilt things a touch towards Demmings.

[jay87shot]

Here is my hope

2nd- CB DeAngelo Ponds- Easily a top 10 pick if he was 5'11", the guy was just everywhere whenever I watch IU games. For us he would be a really good nickel back with the upside to play outside against most teams. His athleticism and instincts should make up for his size.

3rd- Edge Gabe Jacas- I think there is a great pocket of second-tier pass rushers that I really like that includes  Jacas, Dani Dennis-Sutton, Romello Height, Derrick Moore, Keyron Crawford,  LT Overton, and Trey Moore that I really like as early as the second or maybe someone even drops to the 4th.

4th- Athlete Taylen Green- I would use Green like Kordell Stewart or Taysom Hill. Put him as the #3 QB with a limit playbook and have a dozen plays or so for him as a WR/RB/TE. If he shows growth at QB keep him there if not 6'6" 235 pound WR that run a 4.35 are usually pretty good. Again 1st round talent that can be used uniquely and find a role

5th- T Aamil Wagner- I don't usually watch a lot of oline tape so I don't really have favorites. The O-line is however my biggest concern for next year so I am going to double up in the 5th. Wagner has solid experience and if forced to play as a rookie has some Rasheed Walker qualities.

5th- C Pat Coogan- IU was one of the best college teams I have ever seen last year. Getting an experienced center from that team can only be a good thing.

6th- LB Red Murdock- There are a ton of LB's I love in this draft, however it isn't a big need so I will restrain myself until the 6th and draft a nice depth piece in Murdock. He was a beast at Buffalo and should be a great depth/special teams player with upside.

7th- RB Jam Miller- We could probably use a RB before this if you have lost all hope in Marshawn Lloyd like me but Miller would be good value here. I like the depth of the running back class in general so their is a pretty good chance a better RB could drop here.

7th- QB Deigo Pavia- I don't think Pavia is a bad guy however he isn't my favorite but I like his on field attributes. With his experience he is better suited to fill the Mailk Willis role and Green can just be pure development. I think he is compariable to Dillon Gabriel and with some of his antics getting him this late would be solid value.

Other players I like that I haven't mentioned: QB Drew Allar, RB's Adam Russell, Nic Singleton, Kaytron Allen, WR's Elijah Surratt, De'Zahun Stribling, Eli Heidenreich, Josh Cameron, Jeff Caldwell, Kendrick Law TE- Eli Raridon, Oscar Delp, Tanner Koziol, John Michael Gyllenborg, DJ Rogers OL-Billy Schrauth (when to my same small catholic school) Edge- mentioned in 3rd round pick DL- Lee Hunter, Landon Robinson, Albert Regis LB- Jacob Rodriguez, Jake Golday, Kyle Lousi, Bryce Boettcher, Wade Woodaz, Jake Kelley, Aiden Fisher, Namdi Obiazor DB- Davison Igbinosun, Jalon Kilgore, Charles Demmings, Robert Spears-Jennings, Xavier Nwankpa

[homer]

Here is what AI thinks 😀:

Priority Day 2 Targets (Rounds 2-3)

With picks at No. 52 and No. 84, the Packers are expected to target immediate starters or high-impact rotational players to pressure their own veterans.

• Lee Hunter (DT, Texas Tech): A massive first-team All-American nose tackle who could anchor the interior run defense.

• Chris Brazzell II (WR, Tennessee): A 6'4" deep threat with a wide catch radius to replace the recently traded Dontayvion Wicks.

• Germie Bernard (WR, Alabama): A versatile weapon with elite route-running and punt-return experience.

• Chris McClellan (DT, Missouri): A rising interior pass rusher who could provide the "splash plays" Green Bay missed last season.

• Ty Simpson (QB, Alabama): While Jordan Love is the franchise guy, scouts suggest Green Bay might maintain their "QB-development" strategy by taking a high-upside backup on Day 2.

Day 3 Values & Sleepers (Rounds 4-7)

The Packers hold six picks on Day 3, including an extra fifth-rounder (No. 153) acquired from the Eagles.

• Brian Parker II (OL, Duke): A classic Packers target with a 9.76 Relative Athletic Score (RAS) and the versatility to play center or tackle.

• Trey Smack (K, Florida): A specialist with a huge leg (school record 10 FGs over 50 yards) to compete for the kicking job.

• Drew Stevens (K, Iowa): Another high-level kicker prospect who tied the Kinnick Stadium record with a 58-yarder.

• Jacob Rodriguez (LB, Texas Tech): A high-motor "tackle machine" who could instantly upgrade the special teams units.

[OldSchoolSnapper]

I feel certain they're going to take a WR with where the market is on WRs.

[LouisEly]

Usually it isn't who they bring in for top 30 visits that tells their draft intentions, it's usually how many players at each position.

The top two positions based on number of players they brought in are:

Interior DL: 5

Cornerback: 5

And then a whole bunch with 3 each.  So, you can almost guarantee that they will be drafting at least one interior DL and one CB if not two.

The fewest?  OT - only one, and he is expected to be off the board by the time they pick at #52.  

[JosephC]

3 hours ago, jay87shot said:

Here is my hope

2nd- CB DeAngelo Ponds- Easily a top 10 pick if he was 5'11", the guy was just everywhere whenever I watch IU games. For us he would be a really good nickel back with the upside to play outside against most teams. His athleticism and instincts should make up for his size.

3rd- Edge Gabe Jacas- I think there is a great pocket of second-tier pass rushers that I really like that includes  Jacas, Dani Dennis-Sutton, Romello Height, Derrick Moore, Keyron Crawford,  LT Overton, and Trey Moore that I really like as early as the second or maybe someone even drops to the 4th.

7th- QB Deigo Pavia- I don't think Pavia is a bad guy however he isn't my favorite but I like his on field attributes. With his experience he is better suited to fill the Mailk Willis role and Green can just be pure development. I think he is compariable to Dillon Gabriel and with some of his antics getting him this late would be solid value.

Other players I like that I haven't mentioned: QB Drew Allar, RB's Adam Russell, Nic Singleton, Kaytron Allen, WR's Elijah Surratt, De'Zahun Stribling, Eli Heidenreich, Josh Cameron, Jeff Caldwell, Kendrick Law TE- Eli Raridon, Oscar Delp, Tanner Koziol, John Michael Gyllenborg, DJ Rogers OL-Billy Schrauth (when to my same small catholic school) Edge- mentioned in 3rd round pick DL- Lee Hunter, Landon Robinson, Albert Regis LB- Jacob Rodriguez, Jake Golday, Kyle Lousi, Bryce Boettcher, Wade Woodaz, Jake Kelley, Aiden Fisher, Namdi Obiazor DB- Davison Igbinosun, Jalon Kilgore, Charles Demmings, Robert Spears-Jennings, Xavier Nwankpa

It's worth noting that Ponds has the #1 Next Gen Stats Production score among CBs that were at the combine this year.  I don't think there is a chance the Packers take him due to his lack of height.

Unless there is some type of character concern or injury that we do not know about, I don't think there is any chance that Gabe Jacus makes it to round three, much less the Packer's pick in round three.  I don't think he'll even make it to the Packer's second round pick, but in a scenario where R Mason Thomas and Derrick Moore would get drafted ahead of him, maybe it could happen.

[JosephC]

1 hour ago, OldSchoolSnapper said:

I feel certain they're going to take a WR with where the market is on WRs.

That's why they traded Wicks, to open up a spot on the roster so they could take a receiver this year.  They only way it won't happen is if the guys they like get drafted higher than anticipated.  Watson, Reed and Wicks were all free agents after 2026, they made the decision to get another receiver on the roster that would be controlled for the next few years. 

[jay87shot]

1 hour ago, JosephC said:

It's worth noting that Ponds has the #1 Next Gen Stats Production score among CBs that were at the combine this year.  I don't think there is a chance the Packers take him due to his lack of height.

Unless there is some type of character concern or injury that we do not know about, I don't think there is any chance that Gabe Jacus makes it to round three, much less the Packer's pick in round three.  I don't think he'll even make it to the Packer's second round pick, but in a scenario where R Mason Thomas and Derrick Moore would get drafted ahead of him, maybe it could happen.

What scouting ranking do you tend to use? I kind of try and get like 3 or 4 different ones to make a composite. I have seen a guy like Jacus as a 2nd round pick in some and a 3rd in others. I will say I have Jacus as like a the 60th overall player and almost all the guys I had us taking ranked 10-20 spots higher than our picks so I was definitely going on the hopefully they slide a bit end.

[JosephC]

11 minutes ago, jay87shot said:

What scouting ranking do you tend to use? I kind of try and get like 3 or 4 different ones to make a composite. I have seen a guy like Jacus as a 2nd round pick in some and a 3rd in others. I will say I have Jacus as like a the 60th overall player and almost all the guys I had us taking ranked 10-20 spots higher than our picks so I was definitely going on the hopefully they slide a bit end.

I updated the composite I've put together this morning.  Check out page 13 of the Packer's 2026 Off-Season thread for a two-week old version.  I will post a final version, but in particular want to wait for a final ranking from Eric Edholm at NFL.com before doing so.

Gabe Jacus was #48 in the update from this morning, and I would guess he will go a bit higher than that.

[CheezWizHed]

A few thoughts on what I expect from the draft:

1. I don't expect them taking a 2-down DT high in the draft.  Banks or Miller - grab and go.  Maybe Orange in the third round if they think they can squeeze a bit more pass rush juice out of him (sorry, I had to...).  Otherwise, JVDB later in the draft and a clogging DT in the 7th/UFDA. If a few key DTs/DEs are gone in the 2nd, I wouldn't hate trading back. 
2. Double dip on CBs in rounds 3-5. 
3. Double dip on OL, but probably later rounds of the draft (4+). 
4. The QB mystery has me curious.  I was leaning towards Taylen Green who has a very boom/bust profile due to his athletic freakishness.  Thus, I could see his draft slot be very volatile - leading the Packers to be hush-hush about meeting with him. But I also wonder if we could be shocked with very high pick on Beck or Allar... 

[JosephC]

Banks is #39 and Miller is #44 on my updated board.  I don't think either of them make it to #52.  Lee Hunter is right at #52, but even though he was a 30-Visit, I still don't think the Packers will pick him with as athlete-minded Gutekunst is.  I would personally love to see them pick Hunter,  Next Gen production rating was #1 among that DL's at this year's combine.  Next Gen athleticism grade...second to last.  Historically, Gutekunst has not picked guys like that.  To me, he's be my #1 choice at #52 over Georgia Tech OG-Keylan Rutledge by the slightest of margins.  Those two guys would be my favorites BY FAR with how the board currently sits. 

And as much as Gutekunst loves the workout guys, Dani Dennis-Sutton just has not climbed the board like I thought he would and currently sits #73.  Will Gutekunst have him higher than that on the Packers board?  Pretty likely.  High enough to pick at #52?  I'm now a bit doubtful about that.  Romello Height has been slipping bit by bit, and is now sitting at #90 on the board, a few spots after the Packers third round pick (#84).  I think Gutekunst would like to take an EDGE guy at #52, but if Malachi Lawrence, Gabe Jacas and R Mason Thomas are all off the board, I don't think he can.

Looking at the board, Tennessee WR-Chris Brazzell II seems more and more likely at #52.  You want to track 30-Visit guys...WR Chris Brazzell II at #52,  EDGE Romello Height at #84 and CB Will Lee III at #120 all fit pretty well in those spots.  Man, I can see a lot of Packer fans losing it if Gutekunst takes another WR in round 2 after taking WRs in round 1 and 3 last year.  Personally, I'm more worried that he's going to largely ignore the offensive line, which to me is crazy because that is the group that looks like it has the most potential to crap-out and end up sinking this team's chances.

Also going to throw this out there.  Even with 8 draft picks, the overall depth on this team will not be looking good.  By my count, they are up to 9 day three picks in 2027 (3 of their own (traded one for Kinnard), 4 comp picks, 2 picks for Gary/Wicks).  IMO, they could give something up and move one of those picks into the upcoming draft.  The Dolphins currently have 11 picks, seven of those in the first three rounds.  I would be on the phone already offering the Dolphins next years 4th round pick for the 11th pick in the fifth round (#151 overall).  Packers fourth round pick this year is at #120, will go up or down depending on how the team does.  But for now, count on it being about a 30 spot drop to have the pick a year earlier.  On the board currently....#151 = Demonte Capehart/DL/Clemson, #152 = Adam Randall/RB/Clemson, #154 = Drew Shelton/OT/Penn State, #155 = Mason Reiger/EDGE/Wisconsin, #161 = Caden Curry/EDGE/Ohio State, #169 = Diego Pounds/OT/Mississippi, #170 = Dontay Corleone/DL/Cincinnati, #175 = Charles Demmings/CB/Stephen F. Austin.  Looks like above-average fifth round talent to my eyes, I'd be comfortable making this swap considering the amount of day three picks we have to work with in 2027.

[CheezWizHed]

21 minutes ago, JosephC said:

Banks is #39 and Miller is #44 on my updated board.  I don't think either of them make it to #52.  Lee Hunter is right at #52, but even though he was a 30-Visit, I still don't think the Packers will pick him with as athlete-minded Gutekunst is.  I would personally love to see them pick Hunter,  Next Gen production rating was #1 among that DL's at this year's combine.  Next Gen athleticism grade...second to last.  Historically, Gutekunst has not picked guys like that.  To me, he's be my #1 choice at #52 over Georgia Tech OG-Keylan Rutledge by the slightest of margins.  Those two guys would be my favorites BY FAR with how the board currently sits. 

And as much as Gutekunst loves the workout guys, Dani Dennis-Sutton just has not climbed the board like I thought he would and currently sits #73.  Will Gutekunst have him higher than that on the Packers board?  Pretty likely.  High enough to pick at #52?  I'm now a bit doubtful about that.  Romello Height has been slipping bit by bit, and is now sitting at #90 on the board, a few spots after the Packers third round pick (#84).  I think Gutekunst would like to take an EDGE guy at #52, but if Malachi Lawrence, Gabe Jacas and R Mason Thomas are all off the board, I don't think he can.

Looking at the board, Tennessee WR-Chris Brazzell II seems more and more likely at #52.  You want to track 30-Visit guys...WR Chris Brazzell II at #52,  EDGE Romello Height at #84 and CB Will Lee III at #120 all fit pretty well in those spots.  Man, I can see a lot of Packer fans losing it if Gutekunst takes another WR in round 2 after taking WRs in round 1 and 3 last year.  Personally, I'm more worried that he's going to largely ignore the offensive line, which to me is crazy because that is the group that looks like it has the most potential to crap-out and end up sinking this team's chances.

Also going to throw this out there.  Even with 8 draft picks, the overall depth on this team will not be looking good.  By my count, they are up to 9 day three picks in 2027 (3 of their own (traded one for Kinnard), 4 comp picks, 2 picks for Gary/Wicks).  IMO, they could give something up and move one of those picks into the upcoming draft.  The Dolphins currently have 11 picks, seven of those in the first three rounds.  I would be on the phone already offering the Dolphins next years 4th round pick for the 11th pick in the fifth round (#151 overall).  Packers fourth round pick this year is at #120, will go up or down depending on how the team does.  But for now, count on it being about a 30 spot drop to have the pick a year earlier.  On the board currently....#151 = Demonte Capehart/DL/Clemson, #152 = Adam Randall/RB/Clemson, #154 = Drew Shelton/OT/Penn State, #155 = Mason Reiger/EDGE/Wisconsin, #161 = Caden Curry/EDGE/Ohio State, #169 = Diego Pounds/OT/Mississippi, #170 = Dontay Corleone/DL/Cincinnati, #175 = Charles Demmings/CB/Stephen F. Austin.  Looks like above-average fifth round talent to my eyes, I'd be comfortable making this swap considering the amount of day three picks we have to work with in 2027.

Do you ever go back post-draft and compare what actually happened to your board? 

And if you see big discrepancies, do you blame the drafter or your board? 😉

[JosephC]

24 minutes ago, CheezWizHed said:

Do you ever go back post-draft and compare what actually happened to your board? 

And if you see big discrepancies, do you blame the drafter or your board? 😉

Discrepancies can be explained by the Jets and Browns.  All of them.

I should also point out that it's not "my board," but a consensus/composite board made up of top prospect lists from around the web.  As an extra bonus this year, ESPN didn't publish Kiper's list behind a paywall, so I threw that in this morning.  I'm still waiting for an updated list from Eric Edholm (NFL.com), when I get his added in I'll post the board in the off-season thread.

[CheezWizHed]

5 minutes ago, JosephC said:

Discrepancies can be explained by the Jets and Browns.  All of them.

I should also point out that it's not "my board," but a consensus/composite board made up of top prospect lists from around the web.  As an extra bonus this year, ESPN didn't publish Kiper's list behind a paywall, so I threw that in this morning.  I'm still waiting for an updated list from Eric Edholm (NFL.com), when I get his added in I'll post the board in the off-season thread.

Yeah, I know this isn't you doing the "scouting". I just poke a little fun at the "I can't believe they drafted him 10 picks over the consensus board!  What a waste!  Trade down and get him then!" sillyness. 

[LouisEly]

54 minutes ago, JosephC said:

To me, he's be my #1 choice at #52 over Georgia Tech OG-Keylan Rutledge by the slightest of margins. 

Rutledge - the Packers rarely draft players who played guard in college, and when they do, it's late.  Last one was 6th round in 2020 (Stepaniak) and the last before that was 6th round in 2011 (Schlauderaff).  I can't see them spending a day 2 pick on one unless they desperately needed one, and they don't - they pretty much have Banks and Belton locked up for the next two years, and it will take him a while to learn center (and won't get many snaps in practice there with Rhyan needing the reps).

I just can't see a 2nd round pick on a guy who may not start for 3 years (and isn't a QB).

[JosephC]

4 hours ago, LouisEly said:

- they pretty much have Banks and Belton locked up for the next two years,

Unfortunately, Gutekunst feels the same way.  Banks sucked and Belton was not exactly impressive last year.  Combine that with Morgan's inexperience at LT (for Walker only being average/below-average as a LT....Morgan never threatened him for that job) and Tom coming back from a significant injury...the offensive line is the group that could sink this team.  CB a close second.

[LouisEly]

Belton was a rookie who moved inside to guard after playing tackle in college.  Come on.

And Morgan absolutely threatened Walker at LT and showed it in the pre-season.  He played RG because they thought he was better than Rhyan at RG in order to get their best 5 OL on the field, but then showed that he wasn't better at RG, and then after injuries to Jenkins and Tom they needed him at RT.

If they didn't think he could play LT they wouldn't have let Walker walk.  And Rutledge has never played tackle.