Packers mock day two

I know many people are upset about the Packers trading down and not having a pick today. I actually think it was a very good trade for the team for a few reasons. First, I think the only player they really missed out on was T.J. Watt. I am a huge fan of his, obviously, and I wanted to get him at No. 33, but there are still a number of good pass rushers available. Reuben Foster (or Froster, as Roger Goodell called him) was a top talent, but he had major injury and character concerns, which made him slide down to No. 31. He is also an ILB, which is not a huge need for the team. Jake Ryan played solid last year and I think Clay Matthews will play quite a bit there this year as well. They were also not going to take a tight end or offensive tackle, so no real losses there with David Njoku and Ryan Ramczyk being taken.

Now, pick No. 33 is a prime position. Before the NFL started having a three day draft, this pick would not have been as important as it is now. The start of the second round is a great position to be in because teams now get a chance to step back and take a deep breath and update their draft boards. I have a hard time seeing Green Bay holding onto this pick. I believe either the Jets or Chargers will move up to that top spot in round two and select Notre Dame’s DaShone Kizer or California’s Davis Webb. New York is in desperate need of a quarterback and San Diego is looking for the heir apparent to Philip Rivers. If the Packers gain an extra fourth (maybe another late round pick too), it sets the team up to trade up and get targets in the third round. If the Green and Gold only gain an extra fourth from a trade, the team would still have 10 selections in the draft. Obviously, that would be too many. I could very easily see the team trade up in the third or maybe even the second. The team would have a pair of picks in the second and fifth, three in the fourth and one each in the sixth and seventh.

Lastly, I did not mind the trade down last night and I won’t if (or when) the Packers trade out of No. 33. Dalvin Cook was projected as a top 10 pick about a month ago and now, he is still out there as we begin day two. Also, Joe Mixon and Alvin Kamara are very talented backs who are still out there. Green Bay’s top two positions of need are still loaded. Plenty of good cornerbacks out there, including Awuzie, who I picked Green Bay to take at No. 29. Same goes for pass rushers, even with Watt being taken at No. 30. So, with that being said, I will take a stab at a day two mock draft.

2a. Joe Mixon, RB, Oklahoma

If Green Bay trades down about five spots, I could see it being for the former Oklahoma controversial standout. The Packers are not scared off by the off the field concerns for Mixon and could move down, but still in front of teams like the Bengals, Colts and Vikings, which are also fans of his. I don’t think the Packers are sold on Ty Montgomery as a three down running back, but Mixon and Montgomery would be a great duo. Mixon would in a great situation with the Green and Gold. He would not be in the spotlight in a big city. Mixon would be able to stay low and have a chance to change his image. The Packers have good leadership and if the former Sooner can stay out of trouble, he could be a steal for them. Despite only carrying the ball 187 times, he rushed for 1,274 yards and 10 touchdowns. In his 12 games, he averaged more than six yards per carry nine times and for the season, he averaged 6.8 yards per rush. In addition to be one of the most talented runners in the draft, he is also one of the best pass catchers in the draft. He had 37 catches in 2016 for 538 yards and had five more scores. I would assume that Thompson has done his homework on Mixon and if he is fine with drafting him, then so am I.

2b. Sidney Jones, CB, Washington

I am a big fan of both Washington cornerbacks, but King will be long gone by this pick tonight. However, Jones may still be there. Before his pro day injury, Jones was considered a mid-late first round pick. But he tore his Achilles tendon and it pushed him out of the first and possibly in to the late second. He might not make it to the Packers at this point, but I could see a trade up with one of their fifths to move ahead of a team like Dallas to grab him. He has solid height for a corner and has great length to be able to deflect passes going his way. The former Washington Husky has solid ball skills, as evidenced by his nine career interceptions, and he would come in and solidify the secondary. Jones’ instincts are also top notch as a corner. His doctor said he should be ready by September, but that may be pushing it. Even if he is, it will take him time to get up to football speed. He would be ready for a stretch run. There is no guarantee he can come back with the same speed as he was pre-injury, but it is well worth the risk.

3. Vince Biegel, OLB, Wisconsin

At the start of the draft, I did not have my selection of an obligatory Wisconsin player drafted by the Packers. I decided to change it for day two. If Biegel had declared for the draft last year, he would have likely been a second round pick. Now, a year later, he is considered a later pick due to this being a deep pass rusher class. Biegel was overshadowed a bit this year by T.J. Watt and Jack Cichy in the Wisconsin linebacker group, but he still had a very solid year. He had to miss a pair of games due to a cracked foot. He finished the season with a modest four sacks, but had one in three of his last four games when he was at full strength. He is a terrific leader and gives great effort every play. When trying to sack the quarterback, Biegel tends to miss quite a bit of sacks on the first opportunity, but his effort helps him get to the quarterback on a second chance. Even in one of the biggest plays of the season against LSU, Biegel came through clean and had a perfect chance to bring down LSU’s quarterback Brandon Harris, but he missed. Fortunately for the Badgers, it did not cost them as D’Cota Dixon sealed the win with an interception. He may not have the same ceiling as others, but he will work tirelessly to improve his perceived weaknesses. His mullet game is also strong.

Final Packers Mock Draft

1. Chidobe Awuzie, CB, Colorado (previous: T.J. Watt)

I had know I keep saying a pass rusher is the biggest need, but Awuzie seems like a Ted Thompson type pick. He is a sticky cover corner who only allowed 510 yards and a pair of touchdowns in 14 games for the Buffaloes. He also has played all around the secondary, which shows his versatility. Cornerback is obviously a huge need for the Packers. If Green Bay went into the season with Damarious Randall, Quinten Rollins, Awuzie, and Davon House as the top four corners, the secondary would be in solid shape. They still would need a pass rusher to help out the secondary, but that position is also deep this year.

2. Derek Rivers, OLB, Youngstown State (previous: Sidney Jones)

Rivers dominated the FCS, as you would imagine, for the Bo Pelini-led Penguins. As a senior, Rivers had 19.5 tackles for loss and 14 sacks. He needs to prove it against big-time competition, which is the biggest thing with him. He has been consistent throughout his time with Youngstown State, sacking opposing quarterbacks at least eight times in each of his final three seasons. Knowing Thompson’s history, don’t be surprised at all if he takes a wide receiver likes Penn State’s Chris Godwin here in preparation for next offseason when Davante Adams is a free agent.

3. Desmond King, S, Iowa (previous: King)

King is in the mold of Micah Hyde, whom the team just lost via free agency. There is a solid chance he won’t even make it to this pick, but this would be a typical Ted Thompson pick if he does. King could have (and perhaps should have) came out after his junior season and been a first round pick. As a junior with the Hawkeyes, he had eight interceptions, winning the Jim Thorpe Award, given to the nation’s top defensive back. He, as well as his Hawkeyes, had a bit of a down season in 2016. Still, he intercepted three passes and was once again an All-Big Ten first team selection. King is a ball hawk, as evidenced by his 14 career interceptions. He is also a solid tackler. The knocks on him are his size and speed. Because of those, he will transition to safety in the NFL, much like Hyde. King is a very good replacement for Hyde and would be a possible steal in the third round.

4. Brian Hill, RB, Wyoming (previous: Sean Harlow)

For a long time, I have had Sean Harlow going here. I do think they go guard, but maybe not in this round after buying time with the signing of Jahri Evans. Hill is a real sleeper in this year's draft. He had nearly 2,000 yards rushing last year and 22 touchdowns en route to being a first team All-Mountain West running back. He is a solid blocker as well, which would also be helpful in the pass-happy Packers offense. Hill also fumbled just once in 349 carries last year. One of the bad things is his work load. The number of carries he had last season is insane.

5a. Damien Mama, OG, USC (previous: Joe Williams)

Green Bay will draft an offensive lineman in the middle rounds, even with the signing of Jahri Evans. It is likely a one-year deal and other guard Lane Taylor is also a free agent after this year. I think Green Bay is trying to groom Kyle Murphy to be a starting guard and this gives the Packers time. This is strictly a depth pick, as most picks are at this point in the draft. He is a big guy and he has already lost 70 pounds since arriving at USC, but he might to lose a bit more. He has the ability to become a starter down the road.

5b. Robert Davis, WR, Georgia State (previous: Davis)

With Davante Adams a free agent next offseason, Montgomery’s permanent move to running back and Trevor Davis being in the doghouse much of last year, I fully expect Green Bay to draft a wide receiver this year. Davis’ numbers with the Panthers don’t wow you in any single season, but he finished his career as the school’s all-time leading receiver, despite never posting a 1,000-yard season. He was consistent, though, having at least 700 yards in all four seasons. In the toughest game of the year in 2016 at Wisconsin, Davis had eight catches for 93 yards and an impressive touchdown catch. At 6-3 and 219 pounds, he has terrific size for the position. He is still a raw prospect, but Davis has the ability to become a very good receiver in the NFL, especially if he has a quarterback like Aaron Rodgers throwing him the football.

6. Keionta Davis, DE/OLB, UT-Chattanooga (previous: Davis)

After losing two pass rushers in free agency, Green Bay drafts two to take their place. You can never have too many of them. Despite playing in the FCS, he earned an invite to the the Senior Bowl due to his 10.5-sack season in 2016. Against Alabama this past November, Davis held his own with four tackles, a half a sack and a forced fumble. He was an FCS All-American his last two seasons with the Mocs. At 271 pounds, he might be a bit too big to be a 3-4 linebacker, but he is worth the gamble. Davis will have to get used to playing against elite talent every day, but he has the ability to stick around.

7. Chunky Clements, DL, Illinois (previous: Clements)

Green Bay was able to improve the depth on the defensive line with the signing of Ricky Jean-Francois, so defensive line is not a huge priority, but Clements could add to the depth along the line. He may have a first round name, but he has red flags, which will push him down to the bottom of the draft, if he is even drafted at all. Clements can be dominant at times, but he lacks consistency. He has the ability to become a very solid defensive lineman, but needs to put it all together. He has a poor motor and can disappear in games. As a defensive tackle, he has had 18.5 tackles for loss and four sacks his last two seasons with the Illini. If the coaching staff can turn Clements’ motor on for every snap, he could be a solid player. He is worthy of a seventh round flyer.

Final Mock Draft

1. Cleveland Browns: Myles Garrett, DE, Texas A&M

Many people believe he is the top player in the draft. Cleveland also is in need of a quarterback and there are some in the organization who like North Carolina’s Mitchell Trubisky. However, Cleveland’s defense was so bad last year and there are also many who believe there is not a quarterback worthy of a top pick. Also, next year, there will be a tremendous quarterback class at the top. This past year, Garrett had 8.5 sacks, but 4.5 of them came against UT-San Antonio. For his career, 16 of his 32.5 sacks came against UTSA, Rice, Lamar and Louisiana-Monroe. Garrett will need to show he can do it against top competition game after game in the NFL. He has the talent to do so.

2. San Francisco 49ers: Solomon Thomas, DE, Stanford

San Francisco’s run defense was abysmal last season, ranking dead last by a wide margin. The 49ers gave up nearly 166 rush yards per game, more than 20 yards behind the team that finished 31st (Miami). He can play in the 3-4 or 4-3 defense and Thomas was ranked by Pro Football Focus as the nation’s best run defender. He also is a strong pass rusher, using both his power and his speed. I think either Thomas or Alabama’s Jonathan Allen will go to the 49ers, but I think Thomas is the pick here.

3. Chicago Bears: Jamal Adams, S, Louisiana State

I used to have Allen here, but there are injury concerns surrounding the former Alabama defensive lineman. Many believe Adams will not make it out of the top five. This is a perfect landing spot for the former Tiger. The Jets actually told him during a visit that he is wasting his time, so they clearly don't expect him to last to No. 6. I think he actually could be in play at No. 2. Chicago is in need of secondary help and he fits that. Marcus Lattimore also could be in play here.

4. Jacksonville Jaguars: Leonard Fournette, RB, LSU

Jacksonville needs to sell tickets and Fournette might be the most exciting player in the draft. The Jaguars are stockpiling talent, but they still have a hole at the most important position. In 2016, Jacksonville didn’t have one ball carrier rush for more than 500 yards and neither of the top two even rushed for more than four yards per carry. Still, they need an offensive line to block for the former LSU standout, but having a talented running back like Fournette will help the line look better.

5. Tennessee Titans: Marshon Lattimore, CB, Ohio State

Tennessee just released Jason McCourty, but even if he was still on the team, he did not play well last year. The Titans added Logan Ryan in free agency, but they are also in desperate need of another cornerback. I think they are in need of a cornerback and a wide receiver and can fill both needs due to the trade before last year’s draft of the No. 1 pick. Lattimore has a chance to be a true shut down cornerback.

6. New York Jets: O.J. Howard, TE, Alabama

First off, I would be surprised if the Jets keep this pick. If Cleveland does not trade up with Tennessee, I fully expect the Jets to trade down with the Browns if Mitchell Trubisky, But as it is, New York needs a tight end to help out current quarterback Josh McCown. I think New York will try to get its quarterback with its next pick and possible even trade up into the late first to grab one. Howard is arguably the most talented tight end to be picked since Vernon Davis in 2005.

7. Los Angeles Chargers: Malik Hooker, S, Ohio State

There is a debate as to who the top safety in the draft. With Adams gone, Ohio State’s Malik Hooker makes a lot of sense. Safety is not the most pressing need for the Bolts, but a safety may very well be the best player available. They re-signed safety Jahleel Addae, but will need another one to pair with him. Los Angeles could also draft a wide receiver, especially with Keenan Allen having his last two years cut short by injury, but this could be too early to draft one. They also need to improve the offensive line.

8. Carolina Panthers: Christian McCaffrey, RB, Stanford

If Fournette were to fall to No. 8, the Panthers would be all over him. Truthfully, this may be a bit high for Ed’s son, but he can do many of the same things Reggie Bush did coming out of USC, who went No. 2 in 2006. The one question many have about McCaffrey is if he can be an every down back. I am not quite sure, but he can affect the game in so many ways. He and Jonathan Stewart would be a great duo at the position.

9. Cincinnati Bengals: Jonathan Allen, DE, Alabama

Cinicinnati will need to work on their offensive line after Andrew Whitworth and Kevin Zeitler left via free agency, so Cam Robinson could be a fit here. Before, I had Allen going in the top five, but there are some injury concerns surrounding him. The Bengals need a pass rusher and Allen is the best one available. If the injury concerns turn out to be not as serious as thought, Cincinnati could have the top player in the draft fall into its lap at pick No. 9.

10. Buffalo Bills: Mitchell Trubisky, QB, North Carolina

I know there is no chance Trubisky falls down to Buffalo, but in this mock without trades, Trubisky is the pick here. Even though Buffalo re-signed Tyrod Taylor this offseason, it is clear the organization is not sold on him. The Bills will take a quarterback early on, and maybe even try to trade up into the late first to get a quarterback. Because I doubt Trubisky will actually be here at pick No. 10, I could see linebacker Reuben Foster or wide receiver Mike Williams here.

11. New Orleans Saints: Reuben Foster, LB, Alabama

Even though New Orleans signed multiple linebackers in free agency, it would be hard to pass up a player of Foster’s caliber at this spot. Foster has everything you look for in a linebacker. He is smart and quick and is a tenacious tackler. He would step in and start right away and be the leader of a horrible Saints defense.

12. Cleveland Browns: Haason Reddick, LB, Temple

I expect Cleveland to trade up for Trubisky, but as it is, I have Reddick going here. I think the Browns would love Howard at No. 12, but I have him going to the Jets at No. 6. Reddick is rising up the draft boards quickly. He may very well go to Buffalo at No. 10, but if he falls to here, Cleveland is excited to draft him.

13. Arizona Cardinals: Patrick Mahomes, QB, Texas Tech

Arizona needs to find a replacement for 37-year-old Carson Palmer. He wasn’t the same following the NFC Championship game in which he turned the ball over six times against Carolina. After a great 2015, Palmer threw 26 touchdowns and 14 interceptions in leading them to a 7-8-1 record. For a team that had Super Bowl aspirations, that was a massive letdown. Arizona needs to prepare for the future with drafting Mahomes, who has risen up the mocks the last month or so.

14. Philadelphia Eagles: Derek Barnett, DE, Tennessee

Philadelphia needs help on defense, and Philadelphia would be excited if the former Vols star were to fall. He would be a nice fit for Jim Schwartz' defense and the Eagles defensive line would be fierce. This pick would remind me of when Detroit took Nick Fairley in 2011.

15. Indianapolis Colts: Takkarist McKinley, LB, UCLA

Indianapolis was horribly defensively last year and the Colts desperately need a pass rusher. Leading sacker in Indianapolis history Robert Mathis retired and the Colts did not re-sign Erik Walden. McKinley has top 10 talent and Indianapolis would be thrilled to have McKinley land in their lap at 15.

16. Baltimore Ravens: Mike Williams, WR, Clemson

Steve Smith retired from the league and the Ravens lost Kamar Aiken, so the Ravens are in need of a wide receiver opposite Mike Wallace. The former Tigers standout is who most people consider the best receiver in the draft. He had more than 1,300 yards receiving last year and helped himself immensely in the championship game against Alabama, catching eight passes for 94 yards and a touchdown.

17. Washington Redskins: Charles Harris, OLB, Missouri

Washington needs pass rush help, so Harris makes sense after all the top rushers are off the board. They'd love if Reddick falls, but he seems to be out of reach unless they trade up. He would be an early contributor for them.

18. Tennessee Titans: Corey Davis, WR, Western Michigan

This is Tennessee’s own pick of the draft, their second of the first round. They have two major weaknesses coming into the draft, cornerback and wide receiver. They have a chance to address both needs in the first round. Davis is a great talent with great size for the position. He catches everything with his hands, but he does have a tendency to drop some passes from time to time. Tennessee has a bunch of JAGs at the position and it needs a top go-to wide receiver for Marcus Mariota to complement tight end Delanie Walker. Davis was a four-year starter with the Broncos and broke the NCAA record for most receiving yards in a career.

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Marlon Humphrey, CB, Alabama

Tampa Bay is rumored to be eyeing cornerbacks in this year's draft, at least if you read reports from Matt Miller. Humphrey is a popular name that pops up for Tampa Bay. Also in play are my previous Buccaneers pick and Humphrey's college teammate Cam Robinson, as well as dynamic former Florida State running back Dalvin Cook.

20. Denver Broncos: Cam Robinson

Denver is in desperate need of a left tackle following the departure of Russell Okung to the division rival Los Angeles Chargers. Most people consider Robinson the top offensive tackle in the class and the buzz is that Denver will grab an offensive tackle with this pick.

21. Detroit Lions: David Njoku, TE, Miami

Eric Ebron has done as well as the Lions would have hoped and he could be a free agent next offseason. Matthew Stafford will need another weapon to go along with Marvin Jones and Golden Tate. In the last few months, Njoku has bolted up the mock drafts. He has tremendous athletecism and is a very good receiver.

22. Miami Dolphins: Forrest Lamp, OG, Western Kentucky

The Dolphins will be tempted to take Lamp, who would step in and be a contributor immediately. Miami will need a guard to replace Branden Albert, who was traded to Jacksonville this offseason, and move of last year’s first round pick Leramy Tunsil to left tackle. After signing a pair of linebackers to try to shore up its leaky run defense last year, guard is the most pressing need. Offensive line is not deep this year and the Dolphins should take one in round one or risk losing out.

23. New York Giants: Ryan Ramczyk, OT, Wisconsin

Wisconsin is an offensive line factory, with such players as Joe Thomas, Travis Frederick, Ricky Wagner and Kevin Zeitler all coming from my home state’s major university. Perhaps his biggest question mark is that he is recovering from surgery to repair a torn labrum. The G-Men have a major need at offensive tackle I could also see Garett Boles in this spot as well.

24. Oakland Raiders: Jarrad Davis, LB, Florida

Oakland seems to enamored with the former Florida linebacker. Many have this in their mock drafts, and Matt Miller says the same. He dominated in his Pro Day and his film pops out. He is a versatile playmaker at the linebacker position, which is what the soon-to-be Vegas Raiders need.

25. Houston Texans: DeShaun Watson, QB, Clemson

Following the retirement of Tony Romo, the Texans are stuck with Tom Savage at quarterback. Houston needs to draft one and sign a free agent quarterback like Jay Cutler for one year before handing over the reigns to Watson. Despite the fact that Houston has not had a great quarterback throughout its history, the Texans have not drafted a quarterback in the first round since the first ever pick by the franchise. As a matter of fact, they have only drafted two in the first three rounds (Dave Ragone, 3rd round, 2003). Houston needs to find a quarterback of the future because what it has tried throughout its history has not worked so far and the franchise seems to be a quarterback away from being a Super Bowl team.

26. Seattle Seahawks: Tre’Davious White, CB, LSU

It is no secret that Seattle is open to trading Pro Bowl cornerback Richard Sherman. It is highly unlikely that a trade would happen prior to next Thursday’s start of the draft, but one could happen by the start of the regular season. If that were to happen, Seattle would need a replacement and White is a good place to start. Even if Sherman is kept, the Seahawks still need depth at the position. The tandem Sherman and Jeremy Lane is a solid duo, but lack depth and White would come in and contribute right away.

27. Kansas City Chiefs: Dalvin Cook, RB, Florida State

After nine seasons, the Chiefs released Jamaal Charles, so Kansas City is in need of a running back. Spencer is a solid backup, but will need a three-down back and the Chiefs would be thrilled to see Cook fall to Kansas City. Following the college football season, many projected Cook a top 10-15 pick, but he has fallen due to a few red flags. But he is one of the most talented running backs to come into the draft in the last 10 years. Kansas City needs a little more punch offensively and the former Seminoles standout would help make the Chiefs a potent offense.

28. Dallas Cowboys: T.J. Watt, OLB, Wisconsin

If one team takes Watt above the Packers, I think it would be the Cowboys. While many think Watt will be drafted high because of his older brother, that is just not true. He is a damn good player as well. In his only year as a starter, Watt had 11.5 sacks and was named first team All-Big Ten. He is a very good pass rusher, as well as a very good run defender.

29. Green Bay Packers: Chidobe Awuzie, CB, Colorado

I know I said that I believe Green Bay's biggest need is pass rusher in last my last mock, but Awuzie seems like he would a Packers type of pick. He is very instinctive, but maybe relies on them a bit too much. However, he just allowed 510 yards and two touchdowns with a 54 percent completion percentage while being targeted. He has also played all around the secondary and has played well in all positions. Ted Thompson loves versatile defensive backs and Awuzie fits that.

30. Pittsburgh Steelers: Jabrill Peppers, S, Michigan

There is a report that Steelers General Manager Kevin Colbert “loves” Peppers, but take that for what it’s worth. Pittsburgh has a need at both linebacker and safety, and Peppers can play both positions. I do think he is more of a strong safety, though, but I think he would play some linebacker in a coverage role. This could be a perfect fit.

31. Atlanta Falcons: Jordan Willis, LB, Kansas State

Willis had a great combine, which vaulted him into first round consideration. He had a terrific senior season for the Wildcats, sacking opposing quarterbacks 11.5 times in addition to his 17.5 tackles for loss. The Dirty Birds need another young pass rusher to pair with Vic Beasley and Willis could jump right in and contribute.

32. New Orleans Saints: Kevin King, CB, Washington

New Orleans has this pick due to trading Brandin Cooks to New England. The Saints have major problems defensively and will likely take a pair of defenders in the first round. New Orleans is trying to acquire Malcolm Butler before the draft, but if they don’t, they need a cornerback. They could also wait until their next pick due to the deep cornerback class as well. King is a major talent. He is a fast corner with great size for the position and has tremendous ball skills. He needs to improve in his run support, but he has potential to be extremely good.

Packers mock draft v. 4.0

1. T.J. Watt, OLB, Wisconsin (previous: Kevin King)

I had Green Bay going cornerback in the last Packers mock, but the more I think about it, I believe the Green and Gold goes with a pass rusher in the first. That is if the Packers don’t trade down a bit. Drafting a player who can get after passer not only is the best friend of a suspect secondary, but it frees up Clay Matthews to line up either at outside or inside linebacker depending on the down and distance. In long yardage plays, defensive coordinator Dom Capers could use Nick Perry and Watt on the outside, while having the Claymaker rushing up the middle. It makes perfect sense. Watt is equally good at both rushing the passer and defending the run. J.J.’s little brother tested really well at the combine as well. The former Wisconsin standout led the Big Ten in sacks with 11.5 and was a second team All-American. The one concern I have with him is his injury history. He missed his entire redshirt freshman season. He also just switched from tight end to linebacker in 2015.

2. Sidney Jones, CB, Washington (previous: Joe Mixon)

Jones was one of the top cornerback prospects in the draft before suffering a torn Achilles tendon. He said he expects to play by September, but that might be pushing it. However, Jones should be at or near full strength for the stretch run. Even though going into the season with Damarious Randall, Quinten Rollins and Davon House as the top three corners is not ideal, it would be hard to pass up a talent like Jones. The former Washington Husky does not have ideal size, weighing less than 190 pounds, but he has everything else you look for in a cornerback. Jones has tremendous instincts and ball skills, which Ted Thompson likes in corners. But some are concerned whether he can come back with the same speed and quickness. If he does, then this is a tremendous value pick. Knowing Thompson’s history, don’t be surprised at all if he takes a wide receiver likes Penn State’s Chris Godwin here in preparation for next offseason when Davante Adams is a free agent.

3. Desmond King, S, Iowa (previous: Ryan Anderson)

King is in the mold of Micah Hyde, whom the team just lost via free agency. There is a solid chance he won’t even make it to this pick, but this would be a typical Ted Thompson pick if he does. King could have (and perhaps should have) came out after his junior season and been a first round pick. As a junior with the Hawkeyes, he had eight interceptions, winning the Jim Thorpe Award, given to the nation’s top defensive back. He, as well as his Hawkeyes, had a bit of a down season in 2016. Still, he intercepted three passes and was once again an All-Big Ten first team selection. King is a ball hawk, as evidenced by his 14 career interceptions. He is also a solid tackler. The knocks on him are his size and speed. Because of those, he will transition to safety in the NFL, much like Hyde. King is a very good replacement for Hyde and would be a possible steal in the third round.

4. Sean Harlow, OG, Oregon State (previous: Harlow)

Harlow was a tackle in college at Oregon State, but will need to move inside at the next level. Green Bay lost a starting guard (T.J. Lang) and super sub (J.C. Tretter), so they need to rebuild the inside of the offensive line. He has become a bit of a trendy pick for the Packers at this spot. Thompson has dominated when it comes to drafting offensive linemen in the middle of the draft. He has experience at both tackle spots, so he is versatile, but he will need to play inside the NFL. Harlow has solid strength, which will help him at guard.

5a. Joe Williams (previous: Ejuan Price)

The Packers have Ty Montgomery, who had a solid season last year after stepping in for the injured Eddie Lacy and James Starks. The questions aren’t with Montgomery’s talent to be able to play running back, but whether he can be an every down back. I believe he can be a 10-15 carry a week player. However, the Packers need a complement and Williams could be that player. He is a good athlete with a great speed. Last year, he ran for 1,420 yards and 10 touchdowns in only nine games. In his last seven games, he rushed for at least 149 yards six times. That includes a 332-yard and four touchdown performance against UCLA and a 222-yard game in the Foster Farms Bowl against Indiana. However, he has major red flags. He was kicked out of UConn for credit card theft and then a month-long retirement during last season, only to return when Utah was depleted at running back. On the field, ball security was an issue. He fumbled six times in his two years with the Utes. Williams is also a bit old for a rookie, as he turns 24 prior to week one. But if Green Bay is okay with his past, he would be a great pick at this point in the draft.

5b. Robert Davis, WR, Georgia State (previous: DeAngelo Yancey)

With Davante Adams a free agent next offseason, Montgomery’s permanent move to running back and Trevor Davis being in the doghouse much of last year, I fully expect Green Bay to draft a wide receiver this year. Davis’ numbers with the Panthers don’t wow you in any single season, but he finished his career as the school’s all-time leading receiver, despite never posting a 1,000-yard season. He was consistent, though, having at least 700 yards in all four seasons. In the toughest game of the year in 2016 at Wisconsin, Davis had eight catches for 93 yards and an impressive touchdown catch. At 6-3 and 219 pounds, he has terrific size for the position. He is still a raw prospect, but Davis has the ability to become a very good receiver in the NFL, especially if he has a quarterback like Aaron Rodgers throwing him the football.

6. Keionta Davis, DE/OLB, UT-Chattanooga (previous: Sojourn Shelton)

After losing two pass rushers in free agency, Green Bay drafts two to take their place. You can never have too many of them. Despite playing in the FCS, he earned an invite to the the Senior Bowl due to his 10.5-sack season in 2016. Against Alabama this past November, Davis held his own with four tackles, a half a sack and a forced fumble. He was an FCS All-American his last two seasons with the Mocs. At 271 pounds, he might be a bit too big to be a 3-4 linebacker, but he is worth the gamble. Davis will have to get used to playing against elite talent every day, but he has the ability to stick around.

7. Chunky Clements, DL, Illinois (previous: D.J. Jones)

Green Bay was able to improve the depth on the defensive line with the signing of Ricky Jean-Francois, so defensive line is not a huge priority, but Clements could add to the depth along the line. He may have a first round name, but he has red flags, which will push him down to the bottom of the draft, if he is even drafted at all. Clements can be dominant at times, but he lacks consistency. He has the ability to become a very solid defensive lineman, but needs to put it all together. He has a poor motor and can disappear in games. As a defensive tackle, he has had 18.5 tackles for loss and four sacks his last two seasons with the Illini. If the coaching staff can turn Clements’ motor on for every snap, he could be a solid player. He is worthy of a seventh round flyer.

Mock Draft 1.0

1. Cleveland Browns: Myles Garrett, DE, Texas A&M

Many people believe he is the top player in the draft. Cleveland also is in need of a quarterback and there are some in the organization who like North Carolina’s Mitchell Trubisky. However, Cleveland’s defense was so bad last year and there are also many who believe there is not a quarterback worthy of a top pick. Also, next year, there will be a tremendous quarterback class at the top. This past year, Garrett had 8.5 sacks, but 4.5 of them came against UT-San Antonio. For his career, 16 of his 32.5 sacks came against UTSA, Rice, Lamar and Louisiana-Monroe. Garrett will need to show he can do it against top competition game after game in the NFL. He has the talent to do so.

2. San Francisco 49ers: Solomon Thomas, DE, Stanford

San Francisco’s run defense was abysmal last season, ranking dead last by a wide margin. The 49ers gave up nearly 166 rush yards per game, more than 20 yards behind the team that finished 31st (Miami). He can play in the 3-4 or 4-3 defense and Thomas was ranked by Pro Football Focus as the nation’s best run defender. He also is a strong pass rusher, using both his power and his speed. I think either Thomas or Alabama’s Jonathan Allen will go to the 49ers, but I think Thomas is the pick here.

3. Chicago Bears: Jonathan Allen, DE, Alabama

Like Thomas, Allen can also play defensive end in either a 3-4 or a 4-3 scheme. Quarterback is the biggest need for the Bears, but they may not feel that there is a quarterback worthy of this spot. Chicago also is in need of a safety, so I could see Jamal Adams or Malik Hooker. Although, they may be able to get Budda Baker in the second. Many people think Allen is the best player in the draft and Chicago also has a need of defensive end. This won’t be a organization changing pick, but it is needed. Chicago also could be terrible this year and be set up to draft one of the outstanding quarterbacks in 2018.

4. Jacksonville Jaguars: Leonard Fournette, RB, LSU

Jacksonville needs to sell tickets and Fournette might be the most exciting player in the draft. The Jaguars are stockpiling talent, but they still have a hole at the most important position. In 2016, Jacksonville didn’t have one ball carrier rush for more than 500 yards and neither of the top two even rushed for more than four yards per carry. Still, they need an offensive line to block for the former LSU standout, but having a talented running back like Fournette will help the line look better.

5. Tennessee Titans: Marshon Lattimore, CB, Ohio State

Tennessee just released Jason McCourty, but even if he was still on the team, he did not play well last year. The Titans added Logan Ryan in free agency, but they are also in desperate need of another cornerback. I think they are in need of a cornerback and a wide receiver and can fill both needs due to the trade before last year’s draft of the No. 1 pick. Lattimore has a chance to be a true shut down cornerback.

6. New York Jets: Mitchell Trubisky, QB, North Carolina

Right now, New York’s starting quarterback is Josh McCown. Yikes. It’s not like the Jets haven’t tried to draft the quarterback of the future. In the last handful of years, New York has drafted Christian Hackenberg, Geno Smith and Bryce Petty all in the past five years and all in the first four rounds of the draft. Eventually the J-E-T-S will hit on one. It’s not like that is a bad strategy. Quarterback is arguably the most important position in sports, so drafting one every year until you hit on one is a good strategy.

7. Los Angeles Chargers: Jamal Adams, S, LSU

First off, I have a confession to make. When first typing this, I totally put “San Diego Chargers" at first before changing it. Los Angeles Chargers will take some getting used to. Now, there is a debate as to who the top safety in the draft. Both Adams and Ohio State’s Malik Hooker have a chance to be great. Safety is not the most pressing need for the Bolts, but a safety may very well be the best player available. They re-signed safety Jahleel Addae, but will need another one to pair with him. Los Angeles could also draft a wide receiver, especially with Keenan Allen having his last two years cut short by injury, but this could be too early to draft one. They also need to improve the offensive line.

8. Carolina Panthers: Christian McCaffrey, RB, Stanford

If Fournette were to fall to No. 8, the Panthers would be all over him. Truthfully, this may be a bit high for Ed’s son, but he can do many of the same things Reggie Bush did coming out of USC, who went No. 2 in 2006. The one question many have about McCaffrey is if he can be an every down back. I am not quite sure, but he can affect the game in so many ways. He and Jonathan Stewart would be a great duo at the position.

9. Cincinnati Bengals: Derek Barnett, DE, Tennessee

Cinicinnati will need to work on their offensive line after Andrew Whitworth and Kevin Zeitler left via free agency, so Cam Robinson could be a fit here. Barnett broke Reggie White’s school record for sacks, so that should say a bit about how good of player he is. After having 11.5 sacks in 2012, Michael Johnson has not had more than five in any year since and had just 3.5 last year. The Bengals also did not re-sign Magus Hunt, so defensive end is a priority in the draft, and Barnett is one of the best in the draft and he falls into their laps here.

10. Buffalo Bills: Malik Hooker, S, Ohio State

I could see the Bills going with wide receiver Mike Williams to pair with Sammy Watkins, but Hooker is too good to pass up here. The comparison I keep seeing for Hooker is Seattle’s Earl Thomas. Buffalo signed Micah Hyde in the offseason, but he is a backup and should not keep them from drafting a talent like Hooker. He played through injuries throughout his senior season, but still had a big year. I don’t think Buffalo should pass up a talent like Hooker should he be there at No. 10.

11. New Orleans Saints: Reuben Foster, LB, Alabama

Even though New Orleans signed multiple linebackers in free agency, it would be hard to pass up a player of Foster’s caliber at this spot. Foster has everything you look for in a linebacker. He is smart and quick and is a tenacious tackler. He would step in and start right away and be the leader of a horrible Saints defense.

12. Cleveland Browns: O.J. Howard, TE, Alabama

After drafting a defensive standout with the first pick, Cleveland goes with a big pass catching tight end. He will be the new quarterback’s best friend. I could see the Browns trying to trade up and get Trubisky, but if they stand pat, Howard is the guy here. Hue Jackson did wonders with Tyler Eifert when he was in Cincinnati, so it would be interesting to see what he would do with Howard. The 2016 National Championship hero would add to the weapons for the new quarterback for the Browns to go along with Kenny Britt and Corey Coleman.

13. Arizona Cardinals: Patrick Mahomes, QB, Texas Tech

Arizona needs to find a replacement for 37-year-old Carson Palmer. He wasn’t the same following the NFC Championship game in which he turned the ball over six times against Carolina. After a great 2015, Palmer threw 26 touchdowns and 14 interceptions in leading them to a 7-8-1 record. For a team that had Super Bowl aspirations, that was a massive letdown. Arizona needs to prepare for the future with drafting Mahomes, who has risen up the mocks the last month or so.

14. Philadelphia Eagles: Mike Williams, WR, Clemson

Philadelphia signed wide receivers Alshon Jeffery and Torrey Smith, but Jeffrey was just a 1-year deal and Smith has been terrible the last few years with San Francisco. Williams could give Philadelphia a deadly wide receiver core, and second-year quarterback Carson Wentz all the weapons needed in order to succeed. Marlon Humphrey has a chance to go here as well, which would be three out of the last four picks from Alabama.

15. Indianapolis Colts: Takkarist McKinley, LB, UCLA

Indianapolis was horribly defensively last year and the Colts desperately need a pass rusher. Leading sacker in Indianapolis history Robert Mathis retired and the Colts did not re-sign Erik Walden. McKinley has top 10 talent and Indianapolis would be thrilled to have McKinley land in their lap at 15.

16. Baltimore Ravens: Corey Davis, WR, Western Michigan

Steve Smith retired from the league and the Ravens lost Kamar Aiken, so the Ravens are in need of a wide receiver opposite Mike Wallace. The four-year star from Western Michigan left school with the most receiving yards in college football history. However, he does need to improve on his drops, as he had too many with the Broncos. But he has good size and catches everything with his hands. He would complement Wallace really well.

17. Washington Redskins: Haason Reddick, LB, Temple

Reddick played defensive end in college, but he would play inside linebacker for the Redskins. Washington’s top three players at the position are free agents at the end of the 2017 season, so Reddick makes too much sense at this spot. Transitioning from defensive end to inside linebacker will take some time, but Reddick would not have to be a contributor immediately since the team just signed Zach Brown in the offseason. He would help a defense that finished in the bottom half of the league in points allowed.

18. Tennessee Titans: John Ross, WR, Washington

This is Tennessee’s own pick of the draft, their second of the first round. They have two major weaknesses coming into the draft, cornerback and wide receiver. They have a chance to address both needs in the first round. Ross was a fringe first rounder before the combine, but perhaps solidified his spot in the first round after running a 4.22 40, which set a record at the combine. Tennessee has a bunch of JAGs at the position and it needs a top go-to wide receiver for Marcus Mariota to complement tight end Delanie Walker. Ross was a dynamic receiver for the Huskies and could develop into the top receiver the Titans are looking for.

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Cam Robinson, OT, Alabama

Robinson is the fourth Bama player off the board, as the Tide keeps churning out NFL prospects. Tampa Bay could also go Dalvin Cook here, as Doug Martin is frequently injured and is already missing the first three games of the season as it is. Two years ago, Tampa Bay took its franchise quarterback, Jameis Winston. Now, it is time to protect the investment. Many believe Donovan Smith is best suited as a right tackle and Robinson has the physical tools to be able to hold down the left tackle spot in the future.

20. Denver Broncos: Ryan Ramczyk, OT, Wisconsin

Wisconsin is an offensive line factory, with such players as Joe Thomas, Travis Frederick, Ricky Wagner and Kevin Zeitler all coming from my home state’s major university. Perhaps his biggest question mark is that he is recovering from surgery to repair a torn labrum. Denver is in desperate need of a left tackle following the departure of Russell Okung to the division rival Los Angeles Chargers. Ramczyk is up there with Robinson as the top offensive tackle in the class.

21. Detroit Lions: Charles Harris, LB, Missouri

Harris has been very productive, even on a bottom-feeder, in arguably the best conference in the nation. Harris is too light to be a 4-3 end, so he will have to be a linebacker or gain weight to be a defensive end. Regardless, pass rusher is a need for the Lions to pair with Ezekiel Ansah. If you play against Aaron Rodgers twice a year, you need to have multiple guys who can rush the passer.

22. Miami Dolphins: Forrest Lamp, OG, Western Kentucky

The Dolphins will be tempted to take Lamp, who would step in and be a contributor immediately. Miami will need a guard to replace Branden Albert, who was traded to Jacksonville this offseason, and move of last year’s first round pick Leramy Tunsil to left tackle. After signing a pair of linebackers to try to shore up its leaky run defense last year, guard is the most pressing need. Offensive line is not deep this year and the Dolphins should take one in round one or risk losing out.

23. New York Giants: David Njoku, TE, Miami

The G-Men have not really had a threat at tight end since the one year Martellus Bennett spent in the Big Apple in 2012. As of right now, New York has Will Tye as its starting tight end. Eli Manning needs more weapons outside of Odell Beckham Jr. The Giants scored less than 20 points per game, which was 26th in the league. They still made the playoffs due to their much-improved defense. Manning needs another weapon and a reliable tight end is a quarterback’s best friend. In the last few months, Njoku has bolted up the mock drafts. He has tremendous athletecism and is a very good receiver.

24. Oakland Raiders: Marlon Humphrey, CB, Alabama

David Amerson and Sean Smith are the starters, but Oakland needs depth at the position. The Raiders need someone to be able to cover the slot and Humphrey would be able to do just that. However, Humphrey has the chance to be the CB1 for the Raiders in time. Oakland struggled defensively all year last season and will need to get help on that side of the ball. They also could go linebacker or defensive line at this spot.

25. Houston Texans: DeShaun Watson, QB, Clemson

Following the retirement of Tony Romo, the Texans are stuck with Tom Savage at quarterback. Houston needs to draft one and sign a free agent quarterback like Jay Cutler for one year before handing over the reigns to Watson. Despite the fact that Houston has not had a great quarterback throughout its history, the Texans have not drafted a quarterback in the first round since the first ever pick by the franchise. As a matter of fact, they have only drafted two in the first three rounds (Dave Ragone, 3rd round, 2003). Houston needs to find a quarterback of the future because what it has tried throughout its history has not worked so far and the franchise seems to be a quarterback away from being a Super Bowl team.

26. Seattle Seahawks: Tre’Davious White, CB, LSU

It is no secret that Seattle is open to trading Pro Bowl cornerback Richard Sherman. It is highly unlikely that a trade would happen prior to next Thursday’s start of the draft, but one could happen by the start of the regular season. If that were to happen, Seattle would need a replacement and White is a good place to start. Even if Sherman is kept, the Seahawks still need depth at the position. The tandem Sherman and Jeremy Lane is a solid duo, but lack depth and White would come in and contribute right away.

27. Kansas City Chiefs: Dalvin Cook, RB, Florida State

After nine seasons, the Chiefs released Jamaal Charles, so Kansas City is in need of a running back. Spencer is a solid backup, but will need a three-down back and the Chiefs would be thrilled to see Cook fall to Kansas City. Following the college football season, many projected Cook a top 10-15 pick, but he has fallen due to a few red flags. But he is one of the most talented running backs to come into the draft in the last 10 years. Kansas City needs a little more punch offensively and the former Seminoles standout would help make the Chiefs a potent offense.

28. Dallas Cowboys: Gareon Conley, CB, Ohio State

Dallas lost both Morris Claiborne and Brandon Carr in free agency, so cornerback is a major need for last year’s NFC top seed. Their new starting cornerbacks are Orlando Scandrick and Nolan Carroll, who are both 30. Conley may even go higher than this, but Dallas would be thrilled to get the former Buckeyes standout at this spot. He allowed just a 37 percent completion percentage and he has good speed with good ball skills. He is not as great of a prospect as Lattimore, but he is still extremely good.

29. Green Bay Packers: T.J. Watt, OLB, Wisconsin

Many think Green Bay’s biggest need is cornerback. I honestly think the Packers biggest need is outside linebacker. They desperately need someone who can put heat on opposing passers. That is the best friend of a suspect secondary. Even though the Packers re-signed Nick Perry, they lost both Datone Jones and Julius Peppers, so they need to replace them. Drafting J.J.’s younger brother would also help the Packers move around Clay Matthews. On pass rushing downs, they could have Matthews at inside linebacker and rush him with Perry and Watt. I do think the Packers will have to address the cornerback position, but this is a deep draft there. In his only year as a starter, Watt had 11.5 sacks and was named first team All-Big Ten.

30. Pittsburgh Steelers: Jabrill Peppers, S, Michigan

There is a report that Steelers General Manager Kevin Colbert “loves” Peppers, but take that for what it’s worth. Pittsburgh has a need at both linebacker and safety, and Peppers can play both positions. I do think he is more of a strong safety, though, but I think he would play some linebacker in a coverage role. This could be a perfect fit.

31. Atlanta Falcons: Taco Charlton, DE, Michigan

This pick would make back-to-back Wolverines drafted. Atlanta is in the process of get the defense on the same level as the offense. The defense is not only solid, but young. Charlton would only improve on this. He can play multiple roles in the 4-3 defense and would help in solidifying the defensive line for the Falcons.

32. New Orleans Saints: Kevin King, CB, Washington

New Orleans has this pick due to trading Brandin Cooks to New England. The Saints have major problems defensively and will likely take a pair of defenders in the first round. New Orleans is trying to acquire Malcolm Butler before the draft, but if they don’t, they need a cornerback. They could also wait until their next pick due to the deep cornerback class as well. King is a major talent. He is a fast corner with great size for the position and has tremendous ball skills. He needs to improve in his run support, but he has potential to be extremely good.

I Stand With TT

It is tough being a Packers fan during the offseason. In many Packers fans’ minds, Ted Thompson can do no right. This offseason, for instance, plenty complained about losing five free agent contributors. However, when Thompson re-signed Nick Perry, plenty complained about the money in the contract. I don’t believe the team lost THAT much in free agency. I like Eddie Lacy, but he is not irreplaceable. Same with Micah Hyde and J.C. Tretter. Some fans are even still upset about letting Jared Cook go. All Thompson did was go out and significantly upgrade the position. Lastly, T.J. Lang has been a very good guard the past few years, but guards are not worth near $10 million per season. After the release of Josh Sitton before the season, Lane Taylor stepped in and was a solid player. Lang also does not have much time left. He has had significant injuries the past few seasons and it is bound to catch up with him soon.

Last month, the sinking four letter network did an offseason grade article. First off, giving an offseason grade at any point during the offseason, let alone in March, is ridiculous. Anyway, Green Bay was given a C-. They said the Packers had not addressed their two biggest needs, cornerback and running back. First off, running back is the easiest position to fill. Last season, second-year running back Jay Ajayi and rookie Jordan Howard each had great years.....and they were each drafted in the fifth round. Regarding cornerback, the Packers are counting on health and improvement in their third years from Damarious Randall and Quinten Rollins. Both players battled nagging injuries in 2016 that impacted their play. Also, the draft is deep and talented at the position. If the Packers drafted one early, having Randall, Rollins, a high draft pick, free agent pickup Davon House and LaDarius Gunter is a solid group of cornerbacks.

Now, I would argue that outside linebacker is the biggest need for the team. Green Bay lost a pair of linebackers in free agency with the departures of Julius Peppers and Datone Jones. I expect Kyler Fackrell to make a jump this year, but the Green and Gold still needs one more. Luckily, the draft is very talented in that department.

Going back to free agency, most think the team ended up worse during the offseason. Lang could end up being the only big loss. Hyde made some nice plays for the team, but he was also a big reason why the team was so poor in pass defense in 2016. The departure of Tretter will be offset by the return of Corey Linsley. The young center battled injuries last year, but had started 29 of the 32 games in his first two seasons. Lacy was a solid running back, but as I mentioned earlier, he is not irreplaceable. With Cook, many people were blinded by the way he played down the stretch. He is a very solid pass catching tight end and Aaron Rodgers played better with him on the field. But make no mistake about it, Martellus Bennett is a major upgrade. The only attribute Cook is better at is speed. Bennett is more sure-handed and is one of the best blocking tight ends in the league.

The most underrated free agent signing for the Packers this year is another tight end, former Wisconsin Badger Lance Kendricks. He is a little slower than Cook, but has better hands. Like Cook last season, it will be interesting to see what the former Wisconsin standout does with a good quarterback throwing him the ball. Kendricks gives Green Bay a major red zone threat for Rodgers. It also gives the Packers a 1-2 punch they have not had at the position since Mark Chmura and Keith Jackson back in the Super Bowl-winning season of 1996. And while many did not like the move due it not being flashy, I like the signing of House. Even though he is not a starter, he will give the Packers much-needed depth at the position, Also, like I have said, this is a deep cornerback draft. They could easily land a starting caliber cornerback in round two.

I like how the offseason has gone so far for the Packers. If you read some places, people make it seem like the sky is falling after losing a few solid free agents. I could see one of last year’s draft picks sliding into guard and replacing Lang. After that, add another key pass rusher and cornerback and the Packers will be all set. Green Bay will also draft a running back, as well as maybe even sign a Jamaal Charles or Adrian Peterson following the draft.

The one thing that people will do no matter what next week is slam Thompson. He likes to look toward the future as well as the present. One scenario that I could see playing out is Green Bay taking a wide receiver in the second round since Davante Adams is a free agent next offseason and there is no way the team keeps three high-priced receivers. And then fans will complain. Thompson knows what he is doing, and I trust him more than the arm chair general managers on social media.

Packers mock draft v. 3.0

We are now a little more than two weeks from the NFL Draft, so it is time for me to release another Packers mock draft. In the coming weeks, I will also do a first round mock.

1) Kevin King, CB, Washington (previous: Marshon Lattimore)

I could see the Packers trading down from this spot and picking up an extra third or fourth in order to trade up in the second or third, but as it is, I have King in this spot. At the NFL Combine, King was clocked at a 4.43 in the 40-yard dash. If you were to watch Green Bay last year, speed in the secondary was a huge concern. In the NFC Championship against Atlanta, the Packers had Ladarius Gunter and his 4.69 40 speed try to guard Julio Jones. It did not end well. It wouldn’t surprise me to see the Green and Gold take a corner early and move Damarious Randall to safety in 2018 to take over for free agent-to-be Morgan Burnett. There are a number of solid cornerbacks in this year’s draft, so they could trade down and still pick up a really good one or wait until the second and take a linebacker in round one. In addition to his speed, he is also both versatile and has tremendous ball skills, both characteristics Ted Thompson likes in defensive backs.

2) Joe Mixon, RB, Oklahoma (previous: T.J. Watt)

Judging by the Packers having Mixon in for a visit, it appears Green Bay is not completely scared off by the Mixon video. In the words of Fox Sports Radio’s Clay Travis, “If your talent exceeds your problems, you will always be employed.” If it weren’t for the horrific video released a few months back, Mixon would go top 10-15. He is that good. Ty Montgomery played well in his debut at running back last season, but there are questions about his ability to carry the load for the full season. Mixon would make a great complementary back. If he turns out to be anywhere close to what people think he will, Green Bay will have an unstoppable offense.

3) Ryan Anderson, OLB, Alabama (previous: Jake Butt)

I previously had Jake Butt in this spot, but the signings of Martellus Bennett and Lance Kendricks eliminated the need for a tight end. As it is right now, the Packers have a hole at outside linebacker, even with the re-signing of Nick Perry. Green Bay lost Datone Jones and Julius Peppers via free agency, so the team hopes it will have a bigger contribution from last year’s third round pick Kyler Fackrell, along with the linebacker they pick this year. Anderson, a semi-finalist for the Bednarik Award given to the nation’s top linebacker, has a knack for getting to opposing quarterbacks. In his last two seasons with the Crimson Tide, he had 30.5 tackles for loss and 15 sacks. He is a bit too slow to cover tight ends, but Green Bay will likely use Joe Thomas on obvious passing downs.

4) Sean Harlow, OG, Oregon State (previous: Travis Rudolph)

With the losses of both T.J. Lang and J.C. Tretter, the Packers have a hole at guard. From interviews, it seems like Mike McCarthy won’t slide Bryan Bulaga or last year’s second round pick Jason Spriggs inside. The loss of Tretter will be offset by the return of Cory Linsley. There are two things Ted Thompson has made a living on in the draft: second round receivers and mid-round offensive linemen. During his tenure, he has drafted the following offensive linemen in the mid-rounds: Josh Sitton, Lang, David Bakhtiari, J.C. Tretter and Linsley. After spending his years in college at tackle, he projects inside in the NFL due to his 32-inch arms. But he is a versatile lineman, which Thompson likes.

5a) Ejuan Price, OLB, Pittsburgh (previous: Ethan Cooper)

In free agency, Green Bay let both Datone Jones and Julius Peppers walk. The Packers already took one outside linebacker in this draft, but they need all the pass rushers they can get. Price is a monster at getting to opposing quarterbacks. He had 22 sacks in his last two seasons with the Panthers, including 13 last year. He had 23 tackles for loss and forced three fumbles as well. He is a big-time sleeper prospect.

5b) DeAngelo Yancey, WR, Purdue (previous: N/A)

Ty Montgomery moved to running back permanently this offseason, so the Packers have six wide receivers (with a legitimate chance to make the team) on the roster. Yancey could come in and fight for a roster spot, especially if Trevor Davis remains in the doghouse. There is a big drop off after the big three for the Packers. If Yancey plays well in preseason and training camp, he could force the team to keep six receivers. The former Boilermaker visited Green Bay a few weeks back. He was a big play receiver for the Boilers last year, averaging 19.4 yards per touch. He has nice size for a receiver, but he had problems with drops throughout his collegiate career.

6) Sojourn Shelton, CB, Wisconsin (previous: Tyree Robinson)

Shelton was a four-year starter with the Badgers who reminded some of former Wisconsin legend Jamar Fletcher. However, much like Fletcher, Shelton is an undersized corner. That will push him down to the late rounds. In his senior season, he turned into the shutdown corner many expected him to be. He has very good extincts, which helped him pick off four passes in 2016. He shut down some of the league’s better receivers and opposing quarterbacks didn’t even throw his way much of the time. He would have to cover the slot receiver, as he is not big enough to cover big outside receivers. He has the speed and quickness to cover slot guys, but will have to fight for a roster spot.

7) DJ Jones, DT, Ole Miss (previous: Chad Kelly)

Even after signing Ricky Jean-Francois, the Packers could use another defensive lineman as depth. The big nose tackle is a workout warrior. He is a strong man, but may still struggle with double teams. He also may struggle when the offensive linemen he goes up against are just as strong as he is and he can’t overpower them. He did not make as many plays as he should, which is concerning. But he does have the tools to be able to make an impact.