Once again it is that time of year when the NFL Draft is upon us. Each year, LWOS explores the top three draft needs for each team, and this article’s focus is the Green Bay Packers.
Green Bay Packers 2016 NFL Draft: Top 3 Needs
Defensive Line
With the recent unexpected retirement announcement of B.J. Raji, and the four-game suspension of Mike Pennel, the defensive line has suddenly became a very big need for the Packers defense. Mike Daniels earned a nice contract extension for the excellent production he’s had his past few seasons in Green Bay. Besides Daniels, the rest of their defensive line on the roster have been mostly rotational players including Letroy Guion, Datone Jones, and Josh Boyd.
The Packers should absolutely go after a versatile defensive lineman that can provide a pass rush just like Daniels. They need help immediately at defensive line, and should think about spending a first or second round pick on one. Vernon Butler from Louisiana Tech, and either Jarran Reed or A’Shawn Robinson from Alabama would all make great options at the 28th pick for Green Bay.
Inside Linebacker
One of the biggest issues that the Packers defense has faced is the lack of an inside linebacker that’s able to both drop into coverage, as well as also stopping the run. Clay Matthews has stepped up and played inside linebacker, but they want to move him back to the outside where he performs his best by rushing the quarterback.
The other inside linebackers currently on the team include Jake Ryan who they drafted in the fourth round last year, and Sam Barrington who missed last season with a foot injury. Ryan shows ton of promise stuffing the run, and Barrington will provide depth with his return. The two are both solid, but they should look early in the draft for an athletic inside linebacker that can cover tight ends, and running backs. Reggie Ragland from Alabama could be a great fit in the first round based on his athletic ability.
Outside Linebacker
Even with Clay Matthews most likely returning to outside linebacker, the Packers should really consider addressing the position early in the draft. Defensive co-ordinator Dom Capers loves outside linebackers that can pass rush. As such, they should look to add another effective pass rusher on the opposing side of Matthews. Julius Peppers has had success starting at outside linebacker. He did have 10.5 sacks last season. But at 36, his snaps will start to become more and more limited.
The Packers only other outside linebackers are former first round pick Nick Perry whom they re-signed for one-year, and Jayrone Elliot who typically plays special teams. They should look for an aggressive pass rusher in the second or third round, and should target players like Joshua Perry (Ohio State) or Kamalei Correa (Boise State).
