Three First-Round Prospects Gutekunst Could Trade Up for
Brian Gutekunst could trade up for these three prospects in the 2021 NFL Draft.
In each of his first three years as General Manager of the Green Bay Packers, Brian Gutekunst has traded up in the first round of the NFL Draft. It’s a process that, so far, has proven to be effective.
In 2018, he traded up for the 18th pick to select the team’s next franchise corner in Jaire Alexander. In 2019, Gutekunst moved up from pick 30 to 21 and selected safety Darnell Savage. Last year, he kept the tradition alive when he traded up four spots to select Jordan Love at 26. It’s a small sample size, but Gutekunst has been aggressive in his approach to the draft, and because of that, you can’t rule out the possibility of him moving up on day one again in 2021.
Assuming Gutekunst continues this mode of operation, there are multiple prospects he could target by moving up. Here are three prospects from this year’s class that Gutekunst could move up for in the first round:
Oklahoma State OT Teven Jenkins
The Packers don’t have a long-term need at left tackle, but that isn’t the case at right tackle. Billy Turner has shown he can play on the edge if no one else is able to, but his skill set is probably better suited for guard. Rick Wagner provided solid depth last year, however, he is no longer with the team. Outside of Yosh Nijman, Green Bay is deficient of depth at either tackle spot. Jenkins is an NFL-ready prospect accustomed to playing left and right tackle. His playstyle has been compared to that of former Packers right tackle Bryan Bulaga, but he has a bit of a nasty streak to him. Jenkins would fit in well in Green Bay and has the potential to hit the ground running as an immediate starter. If he falls into range for the Packers to move up, it’s possible Gutekunst could move up to snag a franchise right tackle.
Northwestern CB Greg Newsome II
Green Bay has short-term and long-term needs at corner. Luckily, this year’s draft is littered with first-round talent at the cornerback position, and the Packers are willing to take chances if it means helping out their secondary. Right now, it’s Alexander and a bunch of question marks. Kevin King is back on a one-year deal, but he is still a longshot to be a long-term solution. Meanwhile, Newsome’s draft stock is soaring, and it’s because he’s one of the best cover corners in the class. When talking about size, length, speed, and fluidity, Newsome checks all the boxes. He would be great to have on the boundary opposite of Alexander as a part of the next installment of this franchise’s starting corner group.
Notre Dame LB Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah
If you’re discussing the best defensive talent in this year’s draft, Owusu-Koramoah is in the conversation. He’s an extremely versatile player who will fit in seamlessly for any NFL defense. At Notre Dame, he did it all from playing in the box, on the edge, and in the slot. A few years ago, Packers fans were enamored with Florida State safety Derwin James. That is exactly who Owusu-Koramoah is compared to by NFL.com. Owusu-Koramoah is super explosive and offers versatility that Green Bay can’t find with their current linebacker group. If he somehow falls into the 20s, Gutekunst should be on the phone trying to make a play for him.
Brandon Carwile is a Packers writer who also enjoys watching and breaking down film. Follow him on Twitter @PackerScribe.
Comments (118)
hund4pack
April 21, 2021 at 12:14 pm
I don't see how we trade up to get a LB. If you recall, we PASSED on a top LB last year in Patrick Queen. IMO, trade back and target our needs (OL, CB, WR, DL) in picks 35-100.
PF4L
April 21, 2021 at 02:04 pm
Yea but.....we got a QB for only 2 picks.
Those other need positions?...as a former GM once said....
"Those area's will take care of themselves."
PeteK
April 21, 2021 at 03:46 pm
Is your last name brook?
dobber
April 21, 2021 at 02:55 pm
Passed on a LB that we all seemed to like. I'll admit, when they announced the trade, I would've bet money he was the pick. Apparently they had a much higher grade on Love.
CoachDino
April 21, 2021 at 04:19 pm
Yea and they were right, to this point. Queen stunk last year.
Everybody keeps forgetting Rodgers wasn't the MVP, he was good. But we all know what an arrogant SOB he can be.
How much was he bucking the changes? Did he show the Coach/GM that he might be an issue?
Aaron admits he made changes in his behaviour and it seems to of really helped him None of this was known at the time of the draft.
Is it what motivated Arod to make those changes? maybe, I hope not.
Is Love the answer, maybe, most likely not. My point is its easy to look back after a year and laugh at the move but to be fair in evaluation the evaluation needs to be done at the time of the draft. You have an aging QB that has been on the decline, that is known for his arrogance/attitude, that is giving your new coach attitude both by his on field and off field actions.
Who were the 5-10 guys taken after Love? How much did they contribute? Would they have made the difference? Look closely, the answer is Love pick as far as talent/value looks good compared to what the consensus and actual picks right after him.
Ya but we like to use Jefferson or Claypool as examples. That's for Losers. Jefferson was gone and no one took Claypool in the 1st.
Plus please name the 1st year WR that Arod "trusted" and connected with? So no rookie was going to take throws away from DAdams. Tee Higgins for example, plus how much better than MVS does their stats look? You think Jefferson and Claypool get nearly the opportunities to put up the #'s with GB? Sorry but it Draft time and my patience with analytically weak statements is at a low. Not directed at anyone in particular -
GatorJason
April 21, 2021 at 05:08 pm
If we could do over 2020 draft, I would not have traded up and would have taken Jonathan Taylor at RB in the first and used the second pick on either LB Zack Baun or WR Bryan Edwards, the best available WR at that point. The impact would be Taylor instead of AJ Dillon which would have allowed the Packers to let Aaron Jones go this year and resign Jamaal Williams for a song. The Packers would have kept T. Boyle for a low-budget backup but someone who had a solid hold on second string. Edwards and Baun both had solid rookie years and would have reduced need to add depth this year at their position. The only downside would have been not having a franchise talent to take over at QB on the roster . . . . IMO, that is still true today.
Screw Monday Morning quarterbacking. We really need Gutey to be at the top of his game this year and make solid picks in a draft I believe is much richer and deeper than last years.
PhantomII
April 22, 2021 at 06:11 am
I wanted Claypool and said so prior to draft. Anyone with his head out of his Butt could tell he was perfect for us. Big tall fast WR/TE hybrid. 11 plus TD's as a ROOK. Maybe Rodgers does or doesn't use him, but he would have been our #2 we needed. He was and is the better pick at #1 even though poor GM's let him get a very good WR in round 2. He's a difference maker, runs in 4.4's. You're wrong again.
greengold
April 22, 2021 at 07:42 am
This is SO well said, Dino.
As for Jordan Love, I was shocked like everyone else, but came to realize it was a bold move by Gutekunst with what could be great value and reward. You look at what other teams are trading away for a shot at a QB with Love's 2018 #s??? Forget about it.
Not to mention, it was the right time to take him, irrespective of this AR motivational talk. Rodgers goes down, and that meant our season was over, previously. Not the case now, IMO.
No matter what, trading up at this point for a different talent than you can get at #29 is too little, too late. To me, the best course, to winning a Super Bowl, not the draft, is to get the players that best fit your system in each round, filling your immediate needs with maybe 3-5 of those selections, and the remainder to turn over the bottom of your roster.
That bottom of the roster can kill a team. Look at Brandon Bostick. We lost a NFCC game in 2014 because of a bottom of the roster player. They can be just as important or more so to the overall success of a team, and disregarding late picks can leave you with another season of Ty Summers, Oren Burks, the always injured Raven Greene, Will Redmond, Kabion Eno, Josh Jackson, Tyler Lancaster, Dean Lowry... No thanks.
Hoping Gutekunst hits with all of his best picks through 10 selections. There is more talent in this draft than many think. While the Packers are indeed in need of starters, our STs have been woefully inadequate, and are often manned by back end players. Land as many starters as you can to fill holes with the first 5, then add players who will perform better than those bottom of roster players mentioned, while improving your overall team depth.
Who knows? If they use the 10 they have, maybe we actually will be able to have solid coverage on STs, or maybe even see a KR/PR TD or two. Those players are there to be had. Trade up in R1, and you're left with little to no opportunity to take them.
OT, CB, DL, ILB, WR >>>>>> FIVE POSITIONS calling out for new starters, and unique talents. Trade up in R1, and you're lucky to fill 2-3 of those. Bakhtiari came from R4 2013. Started as a rookie Week 1 when Bulaga went down in TC.
Those R4-5 selections are very important. They are not poker chips to be tossed around.
Nate-1980
April 22, 2021 at 04:24 pm
Dino you’re just a Rodgers hater, he wasn’t in decline he had a shit coach and crappy wide receivers.. Can’t wait for your boy love to ruin this franchise, it’ll be the only satisfaction of watching a 5 win team every year..
Coldworld
April 21, 2021 at 05:45 pm
We did not all like Queen. Just because we may not have wanted Love to be our pick doesn’t change that in retrospect. A happy miss.
jannesbjornson
April 21, 2021 at 06:41 pm
There was never consensus on Queen. Just a few quips from people who never watch the games on Saturday.
Stroh
April 21, 2021 at 08:12 pm
If you thought they would trade up for a LB, you clearly do Not understand the Packers draft strategy ( its been in place since Ron Wolf!).
Almost without fail, premium positions in rf 1. A few exceptions possible, but no way in hell would they trade up for a non premium position!
It's been obvious for about 20+ yrs, excepting Sherman's mistakes as GM.
jannesbjornson
April 21, 2021 at 11:51 pm
It really has been a success story the past ten years, has it not? Move on Collins , then get the OT. As much as I show little respect for sherman, he did bag Nick Barnett with a one pick, who was the last impact ILB for Packertown, LLC.
dobber
April 22, 2021 at 07:21 am
"but no way in hell would they trade up for a non premium position"
...yeah, like a S in 2019.
PeteK
April 21, 2021 at 03:43 pm
Combine Martin & Barnes and we have Queen. LOL
Coldworld
April 21, 2021 at 05:46 pm
Queen may get better, but last year Barnes was Queen
dblbogey
April 21, 2021 at 04:11 pm
I'd give up a 4th to get Jenkins. The OL is critical, as Rodgers will continue to get a little less elusive. RT is a huge area of need, Bakh, Jenkins, Runyan and Jenkins sounds comforting.
jannesbjornson
April 21, 2021 at 06:37 pm
Wrong LB to trade up for, move on Zaven Collins. No more scrub patrol in the middle of the second tier. Barnes out-played Queen. Don't confuse that guy with Devin White.
Stroh
April 21, 2021 at 08:15 pm
Not a chance chance! You trade up for premium positions, all other positions wait for them!
jannesbjornson
April 22, 2021 at 12:01 am
You watch them gouge the inside of this defense and whine about the lost chances to win the Big Game again...
There are three CBs with worthy round one grades. The OT can be snagged in rd two. CBs and DTs are there in rd four. Wade is a sleeper. I really do not give a damn about 50% hits rate, Ron Wolf ,drafting system. Good God, move on. How did that value system work out with King over Watt, J. Jones, Jackson, Spriggs and the square pegs to round hole efforts of Ted with D jones, Perry, et al. ?
greengold
April 22, 2021 at 07:56 am
The middle of Green Bay's Defense MUST BE IMPROVED if we are to have any chance of winning another Lombardi. While this is not the best draft for it, there are players, and we have to snag them. Being we pick so late in every round, the Packers will have to be aggressive from a standpoint of ignoring all the draft fluff/norms/rankings, and just get their guys. Maybe each is considered a round early, but, who cares, as long as you get them? Try to play by norms and we're sunk.
NE and MIN are going to be going after the same, as both need D in a O heavy draft. I totally agree with you Jannes. Relying on Barnes and Martin, who I really like, is not the path, as GB has ZERO depth there. Barry's new system calls for them to be addressing that position, early if possible.
jannesbjornson
April 22, 2021 at 12:20 pm
Need Playmakers at every level of the D.
WestCoastPackerBacker
April 21, 2021 at 12:17 pm
Can't see giving up important draft picks for any of those players.
Guam
April 21, 2021 at 01:59 pm
There are too many good RTs in this draft to trade up for any one of them. The Packers should be able to get a good RT in any of the first three rounds. Pretty much the same argument applies to CBs - lots of depth their too. Let the draft come to you and take BPA at #29 or trade back for more bites at the apple.
splitpea1
April 21, 2021 at 03:04 pm
I like this approach. With so many prospects missing time last season, you're really not sure what you may be getting with some of them; so an extra pick maybe at the top of Round 4 isn't a bad idea.
greengold
April 21, 2021 at 06:39 pm
Agree. There are OTs who could start like Bakhtiari did as a R4 rookie, going into R5-6, and that is no joke. The depth at OT is remarkable this year. No guarantees, but it appears many of them have to goods.
Stroh
April 21, 2021 at 08:36 pm
I'm in favor of moving down a bit. The move up end of rds 2 and 3. That way they have 4 picks in the top 80 or 90. Having too many picks in the late rounds isn't going to unearth many difference makers.
Roadrunner23
April 21, 2021 at 12:28 pm
Gutey has 10 picks and has already hinted at trading up to get his guy, I could see a trade up for Newsome, Jenkins or even Farely. I am only expecting the Packers to draft 7.
canadapacker
April 21, 2021 at 12:53 pm
The only problem with trading up - we are supposedly according to the experts - we may be draft rich (numbers) but draft capital poor (mostly late rounders). That means that we would have to give up too much. Nobody would take just a 4th or maybe all of our picks in the 200's to move up. And we definitely shouldnt give up any of our 2nd or 3rd rounders just to move up when a pretty good player will be there. Realizing that with up to 6 QBs and a whole bunch of receivers going before us - there should be at least one of the best 6 Olineman - and definitely some nice CB's or my favored slot an interior Dlineman. Finally for those who still want Gute to take a receiver - this is a very strong class and we can get a good one in the second round - which is why we shouldnt give away there.
jannesbjornson
April 21, 2021 at 07:06 pm
six
Stroh
April 21, 2021 at 08:40 pm
My guess is 8 picks. But I wouldn't move up more than using 1 4td rd pick. I'd be fine w a small move down from 29 for another 3rd and having 4 picks in the top 80 or 90.
stockholder
April 21, 2021 at 01:05 pm
I wouldn't trade up for any. Barmore yes. But not for these three. Trade up, and you'll give up a pick that will make this club. There are 15 Cbs that can make this club in rds. 1-4. Also consider this: 2 iLbs. 2 Punt returners. 2 rb. 1WR. 2 olbs. 2 DT. 1OT 2 centers. The Packers need to get Clark help. But the word Help is the wrong way to approach the DT position. The packers need to draft a DT/NT to replace Clark! We need the same versatility we use on the the OL. And that whats so right about taking a DT/NT this draft. Move the DL around. Or should I say Move Clark around. Stationary isn't the way to go. Draft the guys 300 plus. Then you'll see champions.
canadapacker
April 21, 2021 at 01:36 pm
I dont know why you would spend a pick to trade up for a player that is supposed to be there anyway. And if he isnt there are a lot of other " plug in guys". Jenkins - if they go Oline is supposedly there. I agree with getting the best interior Dline guy and get Clark to show him the ropes. If we can stop those interior runs we can really improve the defense. Lowery et all have not done that - Winn at 300 lbs does not move that well. But a fall back might be Collins that is predicted to be available - we just have not had a fast ILB - from AJ Hawk,to Martinez . Our interior guys now are developing but Collins is supposed to be a player. And Paye might fall there as Cleveland signed Clowney.
stockholder
April 21, 2021 at 05:30 pm
Barmore will be gone @25 if not a little sooner. Collins is to slow to play the inside. (per 40 time) Good college player, but there are three other ILBs that will be better. ( That the packers could draft.) If Barmore is the packers pick. They can go ILB in the second and third. They also could go OLB/CB in the 4th. A Trade down makes sense if they go after a ILB. But I doubt Gute does that.
Coldworld
April 21, 2021 at 06:10 pm
Collins ran a 4.65 40 at 260 lbs. Urlacher ran a 4.57 at just a shade lighter. Collins would seem fast enough to me, especially as supported by the fact that was rated the best coverage backer in college last year. Yes it’s harder in the pros, but a 3 down type who can cover TEs rare.
I’d rather have him than a maybe 220 pounder like Owusu-Koramoah. Bolton will be long gone. Collins is clearly the next ILB by a country mile.
jannesbjornson
April 21, 2021 at 06:51 pm
Good comparison CW. He reminded me of Urlacher's play in coverage and range. Stockmeister is locked-in on Barmore. He's good ,but 'Bama guys tend to fade in the Pros.
stockholder
April 21, 2021 at 07:05 pm
I'm more locked in on the DL. If Barmore there grab him. Ray Lewis was a Touch faster. I get you both like Collins. And yes he is better choice, then a 220 ilb. But I would gamble on Oweh first. Because I don't believe they'll resign the Smiths. And Oweh just looks like CM3 to me.
jannesbjornson
April 21, 2021 at 07:09 pm
I agree the Smiths will go if Adams stays onboard. I would move P Smith during the draft. Get the Water hot.
Thegreatreynoldo
April 22, 2021 at 02:07 am
CJ Mosley ran a 4.65 as well. The scouts swooned over Mosley's instincts. Collins is a little taller and heavier than Mosley, ran about the same. I've read mostly good things but NFL.com is a little less effusive (still has him as a first round pick). Pauline liked Collins' instincts, but nfl.com not as much.
Collins had a fine pro day, but didn't run a three cone. That's the one area - agility - that scouting sites ding him on.
Coldworld
April 22, 2021 at 11:00 am
His tape in coverage is impressive. I do like tape. A true 3 down prospect. That doesn’t mean he is a new Urlacher or that he fits Barry. It does tend to offset agility and short area concerns.
HoppyTime
April 21, 2021 at 08:21 pm
Barmore is the only one I would trade up for.
canadapacker
April 22, 2021 at 10:17 am
CBS mock draft has Barmore going after us to KC - I say patience is a virtue. Dont lose picks to go up. Especially this year where our 2nd and 3rd are going to garner good prospects and if you go up - you will need to include one or both of those picks.
Coldworld
April 22, 2021 at 11:06 am
Barmore is loved so much because there is so little competition this year. He has good upside but he struggled against good college players. He would be a threat to penetrate this year perhaps, but vulnerable against the run until he adds lower body strength. That is not what we need now and I’m not keen on drafting for years 2 or 3. Don’t deny he has potential.
In essence, too similar to Keke. Not what I’d draft I. Round one, this year in particular. definitely not trade up for—and I would love a DL in principle.
canadapacker
April 22, 2021 at 12:30 pm
I am not recommending him - just some guys have said trade up. I wouldnt trade up this year as I said because of the number of QBs going this year ahead of us - we are going to get a great player where we are. And if there is a run on WR - we will get a pretty good Oline or CB and if there is a run on CB's etc we will get a pretty good Dlineman. No matter what -even the 2nd round will have some pretty good players this year - again at the bottom of the 2nd round will be near the middle because of the unusually high number of QB's going in the first round - so dont give up any high draft picks - good players are going to fall to you. Another thing - watch out for the guys who opted out - not much tape and not much body wear - but that can be good or bad.
Stroh
April 21, 2021 at 08:43 pm
You just continue to prove you haven't got a clue! Just astounding how much you comment without making any sense whatsoever!
Tundraboy
April 21, 2021 at 11:37 pm
Exactly. Get a big load , A really big fast one for the middle and good things will happen with this defense.
Tundraboy
April 21, 2021 at 11:30 pm
And another CB and LB would help
Tundraboy
April 21, 2021 at 11:32 pm
And while we are at it Oh never mind
Tundraboy
April 21, 2021 at 11:34 pm
GPG
porupack
April 21, 2021 at 01:14 pm
GB has clear needs at OT, OG, ILB cover, CB, DT in addition to depth at WR, S, OLB.
But if GB is going to equal or top the 2020 talent group, I think they have to invest heavily to get impact NFL ready contributors at 2 of those priorities. I would see it worthwhile to use the 3 extra picks to be aggressive on 1-2 players Your ILB pick would be one of those clear upgrades that put the GB defense in the top ten. Your CB would be the other one. Both would justify an aggressive investment and put GB back in NFC championship game at least. Whether CB first, or ILB first (I hope) both in rounds 1-2 would be the most successful retooling. ILB in first round allows GB to get good CB talent in round II, but I would spend 2 picks to move up in both rounds I and II. All other picks are likely to be on the bench in 2021. So, go kind of "all-in" on 2. If one thinks a top DL slips, I could see DT as one worth the same investment. But right now, I like your ILB or CB in round I, then find a CB or DT in round II. GB just has to fix this inconsistent defense with every bit of asset and strategy it can muster.
greengold
April 21, 2021 at 07:52 pm
Hard NO on history of multiple injuries. Look at King.
Hard NO on a CB who is NOT A BALLHAWK.
Hard NO on trading up for that, especially!
Coldworld
April 22, 2021 at 11:11 am
Don’t care if he isn’t a ball hawk if he can deliver a lower completion percentage. Don’t give them the easy completion. That’s the first goal and would be a big improvement over later last year.
Stroh
April 21, 2021 at 08:59 pm
An ILB is never, repeat NEVER, worth trading up for! You trade up for premium positions only. Memorize that...
Premium positions include QB, OT, CB and pass rusher (OLB or DL). Memorize those too while you at it.
porupack
April 21, 2021 at 11:03 pm
I respectfully disagree. The ILB in this age has to be able to shed, to penetrate, and to hit the ballcarrier and not yield first down yardage, and be able to get to the outside to make up for mis-directtion. They also have to cover the TE which is increasingly used by offenses who attack defenses with weakness in the middle, and even hybrid WRs in the TE slot, or TEs that are really WRs, and go out on pre snap. GB gives up these first downs almost automatically. A stud there is well worth a first round pick. But I will agree with you at least to this point....that unless you first fill the premium positions of QB, OT, CB, OLB and DL, then of course a stud ILB doesn't matter. That I'll heartily memorize.
Stroh
April 21, 2021 at 11:46 pm
ILB has become a bit more important, only IF they become ALL Pro, like just GREAT. But a good ILB doesn't come close to pass rushers and CB. Very few ILB are even close to what you described. Roquan Smith doesn't and he was a top 10 pick.
Z Collins is barely faster than Martinez. He had a nice coverage grade against lower level colleges. But so did Martinez and ge turned out to be terrible in the NFL.
I'd love if they found a Bobby Wagner in rd 2, but finding one at end rd 1 is difficult at best. None in this draft IMO.
porupack
April 22, 2021 at 11:19 am
Thanks for the comeback, and again respectfully going to differ. (i didn't downvote you). If the current D roster is pretty solid with some top talent, and above average talent at 5 positions, with average talent at another 3 (and I include KKing which I assume he can improve with coaching, or be slid to CB #3, then one can either try to focus on upgrading your average-above average units, or address your glaring weakness. The ilb has been glaring weakness, albeit there was improvement with the 2 young draftees. As very few 2021 draftees are likely to make a significant difference in normal years, then that justifies a lot more resources on 1-2 of players and bet on them being a difference maker even as a rookies. That is not uncommon. That is a gamble to be sure, to invest to improve your odds in a tradeup. No guarantees of course. That is the logic I'm using. Focus on 2 out of 3 of these priorities (CB, Ilb and DT). I believe we agree on CB. We agree on Dline (whether to stouten the line or improve pass rush). I still say a trade up on a first round grade ILB will make the biggest overall difference, followed by a trade up in round 2 on a first round grade CB (whom GB can feasibly get in the top half of round 2 by virtue of a stacked CB class. That is my strategy if I'm Gute. Tradeups in both round 1 and round 2. Put a few more chips on these 2 picks than normal. This is the year to invest in 2 players in a higher risk, higher return bet.
Coldworld
April 22, 2021 at 11:16 am
I’d have traded up for Urlacher. There are always exceptions. This year don’t trade up for anyone unless it’s a premium value AND need match, but also don’t rule out any position where one believes that is available. Premium is just a label for positions where that is most likely.
canadapacker
April 22, 2021 at 03:09 pm
I agree - one of the best ever ILB - Ray Lewis was the 5th linebacker taken in his draft year. We took Nick Perry and we could have had Bobby Wagner. You never know who will be the best - the 4 guys ahead of Ray did nothing. Do not give up a pick to move up. CM3 was a lucky pick and at the bottom of the first round but it cost 2 seconds and a 3rd. Do not trade on luck.
Lare
April 21, 2021 at 01:21 pm
Take DL, OL, CB, ILB or WR with first pick- BPA.
Coldworld
April 21, 2021 at 01:23 pm
I could live with a small move up to get Newsome, but I doubt he gets that close. If anything, he could go earlier than he might if teams are wary of Farley’s long term health.
Otherwise I’d stand pat and see what falls to me at 29. If I were to draft a LB, it would probably be Collins anyway. We don’t need to trade up for a T in this draft.
Starrbrite
April 21, 2021 at 02:03 pm
I’m good with this if it’s the first two—OL/CB—not so excited about the LB.
Dragon5
April 21, 2021 at 03:13 pm
Past performance is no guarantee of future success and those thinking Newsome is Alexander 2.0 buyer beware. I for one hope Murphy's Northwestern ties don't lead to an infatuation with Newsome that Gute once again trades up (for him). Dude's a 7 life path--injury prone!!! I can't fathom replacing 7LP Kevin King with another 7LP. Alex Smith & Jordan Reed both retired this week...injury riddled careers...BOTH 7 LPs. Regarding Newsome...
"He missed eight games in 2018 with an ankle injury and three games in each of the 2019 and 2020 seasons. In his collegiate finale, the Big Ten championship game against Ohio State, he dropped out with a groin injury." Bill Huber, si.com
Another player that's skyrocketed up boards is BYU OT Brady Christiansen. I give Ross Uglem credit as he said from day 1 the rest of the league would catch on and he's gone from a round 5 projection to as high as round 2. Hard work deciphering tape and networking with scout insiders will separate the wheat from chaff in most cases, but it has no metaphysical insight. A great player is useless when he can't stay on the field. DOB 09-27-1996 0+9+2+7+1+9+9+6=43 4+3=7 Another 7LP...buyer beware.
Given Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah is mentioned in this article, may as well sound the alarm on him as well.
DOB 11-04-1999 1+1+0+4+1+9+9+9 = 34 3+4=7
Missed 2018 due to broken foot.
Devin Bush was a Packer fan crush in the 2019 draft...made it through one season before tearing his ACL wk 6 last year.
DOB 07-18-1998 0+7+1+8+1+9+9+8 = 43 4+3=7
jannesbjornson
April 21, 2021 at 07:04 pm
Skip Newsome, not a tackler. Lenoir from Oregon or Wade from OSU can be had in the fourth rd and can play slot or perimeter and s top the run.
Stroh
April 21, 2021 at 09:14 pm
Newsome is a good tackler. NU Defense allowed short passes and the DBs were required to be good tacklers!
Don't start making shit up to suit your preferences.
jannesbjornson
April 22, 2021 at 12:11 am
I watched their games.He can cover,but NFL wideouts are bigger and more physical. His run support will be lacking.
Coldworld
April 22, 2021 at 11:38 am
Most perimeter types are tall and willowy, very few are plus in run support. Alexander isn’t, for example. Like him, Newsome is a decent tackler, using length well in Newsome’s case. but if you draft him for that purpose you are missing the point.
He is a pass coverage player, ideally projecting outside, but agile enough to cover passes inside early on and if needed. He will be a lot better tackler than Sam Shields was, and a young Shields would be a big upgrade.
jannesbjornson
April 22, 2021 at 12:30 pm
He is not as quick as Jaire. He can be bodied up by bigger WRs. He has the speed down, but just packs 180 lbs on a 6-1 frame and the injury concerns.
Stroh
April 21, 2021 at 09:11 pm
Murphy would have no input either way on Gutey drafting Newsome or any other Northwestern player.
Coldworld
April 22, 2021 at 11:23 am
I’m sure that isn’t true. Murphy clearly has input on Rodgers retention and everyone reports to him not Gute. I’m sure he’s not the leader, but equally sure he’s not an outsider. In that structure it would be well nigh impossible. Wouldn’t say much for scouting if his connections tipped the balance though. Might get a player on radar initially.
ChristyPalmer
April 21, 2021 at 02:15 pm
https://777spinslot.com/wagering-requirements
<a href=https://777spinslot.com/wagering-requirements>https://777spinslot.com/wa...
PackEyedOptimist
April 21, 2021 at 02:42 pm
I really, really, hope Gute doesn't trade up.
"Expert" boards and mock drafts are usually way off, but this draft is looking really good through the first four rounds, and there are some really interesting guys who may drop to 5-7, especially WR/RBs.
This is meaningless basically, but here are a few mock drafts I've done recently to point out why I want to keep ALL of the picks, or possibly trade down with 29 to raise 61 and 92:
40 Round: 2 Asante Samuel Jr. CB
TRADE 62 Round: 2 Jevon Holland CB/S
71 Round: 3 Baron Browning ILB
TRADE 92 Round: 3 Nico Collins WR
135 Round: 4 Robert Hainsey ROT
142 Round: 4 Drew Dalman C
173 Round: 5 Alaric Jackson ROT
178 Round: 5 Josh Imatorbhebhe WR/ST
214 Round: 6 Jonathan Marshall DL
220 Round: 6 Jaret Patterson RB
237 Round: 7 Frank Darby WR/ST
TRADE 256 Round: 7 Jacob Harris WR/ST
TRADE 39 Round: 2 Samuel Cosmi ROT
TRADE 62 Round: 2 Jevon Holland CB/S
73 Round: 3 Baron Browning ILB
TRADE 113 Round: 4 Osa Odighizuwa DL
TRADE 135 Round: 4 Drew Dalman C
142 Round: 4 Simi Fehoko WR/ST
173 Round: 5 Josh Imatorbhebhe WR/ST
214 Round: 6 Jaret Patterson RB
220 Round: 6 Frank Darby WR/ST
256 Round: 7 Mark Webb S/LB
TRADE 45 Round: 2 Jevon Holland CB/S
TRADE 62 Round: 2 Baron Browning ILB
65 Round: 3 Jackson Carman ROT
TRADE 106 Round: 3 Alim McNeill DT
TRADE 135 Round: 4 Osa Odighizuwa DT
142 Round: 4 Simi Fehoko WR/ST
173 Round: 5 Jonathan Marshall DL
214 Round: 6 Josh Imatorbhebhe WR/ST
220 Round: 6 Jaret Patterson WR/RB
256 Round: 7 Frank Darby WR/ST
I don't think any of these are "outrageous availabilities."
Alberta_Packer
April 21, 2021 at 04:49 pm
I think your draft scenarios may depict what Gutekunst will potentially do more than any others I've seen.
stockholder
April 21, 2021 at 05:47 pm
Alim McNeil won't make the 3rd rd.(Everyone likes his Tape) Your Browning will be 2nd and Davis has climbed. ( ILB won't happen early. ) Try Rice 4th rd.Georgia. Also Snowden for OLB.
PackEyedOptimist
April 21, 2021 at 06:56 pm
Who is “Davis?” I agree that several of the players may go earlier, but we say that every year and we are wrong about some every year. I’d be very happy if the players I chose are available at those picks, but I don’t “expect” it.
stockholder
April 21, 2021 at 07:19 pm
Jamin Davis - ILB Kentucky , 4.5 6'2 230. Early 2nd round now.
PackEyedOptimist
April 21, 2021 at 07:00 pm
Who is “Davis?” I agree that several of the players may go earlier, but we say that every year and we are wrong about some every year. I’d be very happy if the players I chose are available at those picks, but I don’t “expect” it.
Coldworld
April 22, 2021 at 12:02 pm
RAS climber. Fast long speed coverage ILB type but major questions. Only started 11 games and declined to participate in not one but both agility drills at his pro day—one area where questions had been raised. He had very few behind the line plays despite being a good tackler. Looks raw, seems to be good reacting but yet to show an ability to read and be proactive. People just love his 4.41 pro day 40. He is on the lighter side at 232 pounds though.
More of a candidate to play Greene’s old position than a true ILB at this point I think, but does that position exist? Certainly not a candidate to rely on to start at conventional ILB this year. I’d look at him on day 3, but his RAS has really raised him. He will go earlier probably if a GM really want a fast cover prospect with little tape and a fair amount to learn. A faster, lighter Martin without the rush instinct but similar issues with general awareness. Avoiding agility testing bothers me.
Got to love RAS crushes.
jannesbjornson
April 21, 2021 at 07:12 pm
Patterson is a 4th rd guy. RAS freaks trash him, but he knows the game and produces.
PackEyedOptimist
April 22, 2021 at 06:14 am
Patterson is on of my favorite gimmick backs, and he keeps being available late in the mock draft, so I take him often, but I agree he will go higher. That said, there are several others of his type that I'd be happy to take.
jannesbjornson
April 22, 2021 at 12:33 pm
Strong runner, low to the ground like Frank Gore.
Stroh
April 21, 2021 at 09:42 pm
Too focused on Holland, Browning and Osa. You have to stay more open minded.
PackEyedOptimist
April 22, 2021 at 06:16 am
It's not so much that I'm "focused on them," they just keep on being available where I think they hold the highest value. Actually, I'm a HUGE fan of Holland, who I see as a Savage clone with even better instincts/ball skills. I'd rather pick Holland than all but the top three CBs.
Alberta_Packer
April 21, 2021 at 03:52 pm
What's better than one Jenkins on the o-line? Two Jenkins on the o-line!
No thank you to drafting a LB in the 1st round. Still haven't recovered fully from drafting A.J. Hawk as the 5th overall pick.
OK to Greg Newsome (if close enough). Also as an homage to former Packer - Craig Newsome.
ImaPayne
April 21, 2021 at 06:40 pm
Had to laugh. Hawk for years held the tackling title on the team and I knew why. He was always the thrid guy on the pile. Smart enough to jump in to pad his numbers.
Didnt they test his speed and agility before picking him? Ya what a waste of a pick and the pack have been good at that of recent.
Alberta_Packer
April 21, 2021 at 07:11 pm
Exactly. Also Hawk's line of scrimmage was always 5 yards further downfield than everyone else's.
jannesbjornson
April 21, 2021 at 07:16 pm
Three LBs on that OSU squad and he was not the best.
Stroh
April 21, 2021 at 09:53 pm
He was in college, not too mention his combine and pro day. He may not have become the best in the NFL, but his college play certainly said he was!
jannesbjornson
April 22, 2021 at 12:18 am
Still liked Carpenter better as a playmaker/blitzer.
Slim11
April 22, 2021 at 06:18 am
His college career was pretty good. In addition, he played his rookie season in GB on the outside. He was moved inside when GB switched to the 3-4 under Capers and ILB Nick Barnett was injured. The coaches wouldn't start Desmond Bishop who was "the next man up."
The coaching staff McCarthy assembled was somehow enamored with shuffling players around a lot more than was necessary.
Coldworld
April 22, 2021 at 12:06 pm
Hawk was a pro ready player who proved close to his upside. In retrospect, he was over drafted for that reason. He just wasn’t an impact player. He was reliable and consistent for a long time and gets unfairly derided simply because he was overdrafted and probably retained a year too long.
CoachDino
April 21, 2021 at 04:35 pm
The analytics of the exercise is to compare who you moved up for to who you could of gotten at your original pick or after trading down and adding picks.
I like Tevon - here's some OT that might be available both at 29 or lower. Cosmi/Walker/Liam/Dillon. This screams wait or trade down.
I like Newsome - heres some Outside CB that will be available at 29 or lower. Asante/Stokes/Campbell/Adebo/Ifeatu/Robinson/Holland - If I needed a year 1 outside CB starter I might trade up but overall this also screams wait or trade down.
Either way moving down and gaining a 3rd or 2 4ths leaves you with this comparison
Tevon or Newsome with no 3rd and (1) 4th pick vs above player (1-2) 3rds and (3-4) 4ths -
thats a player close in Value plus 6 more Draft picks. Don't trade up
PackEyedOptimist
April 21, 2021 at 05:13 pm
Exactly Coach D. Plus, it’s especially crazy to trade up for a RIGHT tackle in a tackle-deep draft. I’m also not sold on G Newsome— he is far from a sure thing both as a player AND health-wise. I think JOK would make a great “star” back but so would Jevon Holland or Baron Browning and you won’t need to trade up.
stockholder
April 21, 2021 at 05:59 pm
Why Don't you like Kevin Joseph? Bet he goes before Stokes. Adebo will start for someone. And Kary Vincent is climbing. Perfect slot CB.
jannesbjornson
April 21, 2021 at 07:20 pm
Stokes is very fast, but was still trashed by the 'Bama WRs. Joseph is more physical, a NFL guy.
CoachDino
April 22, 2021 at 12:06 am
Ya, he a great prospect, a bit unproven but worth a 3rd IMO yet I see him going much sooner due to his great traits. That's why I wouldn't go rd 1 CB or trade up other than for Maybe farley. There are so many CBs, take three throughout the draft and hope 1 or more work out. CB has a huge miss rate in the NFL and until JA the Packers were probably below that. The good thing about KK signing is you can draft and develop (A Bit). Where OT might need to be a day 1 starter. IMO there just isn't anything more frustrating, that usually is the toughest adjustment or personnel move for an in season fix, than OT.
Thing is maybe the Pack has a plan there - might trust Nosh, Always figured on moving Elton and just filling in the IOL. Can't tell, but why else have Nosh on your 53 for 2 years? To me it means he is good enough that other teams will sign him of the PS.
greengold
April 22, 2021 at 08:10 am
I think Yosh Nijman will be a surprise this year. If we go by a timetable for development, he should deliver now. Been thinking it's possible we're better there than we think, making it less of an immediate need.
Jackwagon
April 21, 2021 at 06:03 pm
I used the Draft Network simulator and these are my results through many trades.
62. CB Asante Samuel Jr.
78. OT Brady Christensen
82. OT Jackson Carman
89. RB Michael Carter
92. DT Marlon Tuipulotu
97. WR Tylan Wallace
108. CB Paulson Adebo
134. CB Ambry Thomas
135. LB Monty Rice
142. OC Drake Jackson
148. DT Jonathan Marshall
173. LB Amen Ogbongbemiga
182. WR Dazz Newsome
183. S Joshuah Bledsoe
187. EDGE Chauncey Golston
214. WR Tamorrion Terry
220. QB Feleipe Franks
gkarl
April 21, 2021 at 07:39 pm
17 draft picks........really. JW
porupack
April 21, 2021 at 08:15 pm
wow. that is great. this way, they can get a whole passel of players into camp and see if percentages win the draft. unique strategy, not without merit. wouldn't be very popular though. you should know the expectations are around 100% hit rate, and that no successful player gets past GB, and if so, the GM is a bum. so your strategy hegdes on that possibility from happenin.
Stroh
April 21, 2021 at 09:59 pm
What are you? That's Nuts!
Jackwagon
April 21, 2021 at 06:06 pm
And I didn't give up any future picks.
greengold
April 21, 2021 at 08:03 pm
Do you see how ludicrous that is?
Jackwagon
April 21, 2021 at 06:13 pm
2022: Clean Cap. Let's GO.
porupack
April 22, 2021 at 10:56 am
Well Done Jackwagon, you had fun and kept a good cheer despite the comments! That's what I like, having fun, playing around, poking a little :). Not taking anything too serious.
Leatherhead
April 21, 2021 at 06:17 pm
Based on Gutekunst’s past, and Packers needs, I could totally see moving up a few spots for Newsome.
In 1996, there was a guy the Packers wanted, but he was taken by the Ravens one pick before us. If we had just traded up two spots, we could have had Ray Lewis. So I like the idea of moving up a couple of spots to get your guy instead of settling for your second choice.
ImaPayne
April 21, 2021 at 06:37 pm
I can always always see moving up to get a play on day one guy who is a difference maker. Harrison Smith of the Vikes is a top cover guy and has served the Vikes well over the years with minimum time missed for injuries.
They picked the guy in the early first and he has performed at pro bowl level for years now. Thats, what I like, fix a problem permanently with a top player rather then screw around with undrafteds and or mid second rounders who need a lot of work.
jannesbjornson
April 22, 2021 at 12:24 am
The Pack took Perry the pick prior@ # 28. Spielmann moved back into the first rd. to bag Harrison. The rest is History.
flackcatcher
April 21, 2021 at 06:38 pm
This is another reason why I like Brian Gutekunst as Green Bay's GM. He tells us what his teams needs are. And does not do GM speak, nor does he BS at his pressers. Plus he gives a clear view of the Packers road map. Thank goodness it him running the show in Green Bay, and not a loon like Mark Davis in Las Vegas.
HankScorpio
April 22, 2021 at 05:17 am
Nonsense. Right after the SF loss in 2019, he said they needed WR. After the offseason passed without a serious addition, it was no longer a need, according to him. He's like any other GM. The dribble that comes out of his mouth in pressers should be taken with a grain of salt.
And that's not a bad thing. To paraphrase Vito Corleone, "never let anyone outside the family know what you're thinking"
Coldworld
April 22, 2021 at 12:13 pm
Well, looking back, it wasn’t really, at least last year.
If I recall he didn’t say need (GMs tend not to) but an area of interest. We mostly expected one, we didn’t get one, but hindsight doesn’t make that the position I which we had added a pick to.
BAMABADGER
April 21, 2021 at 07:21 pm
"I'll take Barmore for $1000, Aaron"
BAMABADGER
April 21, 2021 at 07:21 pm
"I'll take Barmore for $1000, Aaron"
HankScorpio
April 22, 2021 at 05:13 am
Gute is 3 for 3 in trading up in the first round. The Packers are in serious cap trouble in 2022. The latter is not entirely caused by the former. But it sure ain't helping any.
If Gute cannot or will not find guys down the draft ladder, he's not the right man for the job.
Archie
April 22, 2021 at 07:40 am
I'd happily give up our 1st, 4th and 5th to get any of the three guys listed. Each would be a spectacular get i.e., top 20 value. But I don't think there is a wrong answer this year to the question of trading up or down, or picking at 29. Any of the three options could work very well if we pick the right guy. Given the depth of this draft, trading down seems a better proposition this year than it was in any of the last few years. So if Gutey picks the right guy we will all be happy, regardless of where the player is picked. Remember Ted traded down and lost LeVeon Bell and TJ Watt. So trading down can easily backfire if you don't have your board set up correctly. Drafting behind GB Pittsburgh took both as well as Chase Claypool last year. The Steelers know how to draft.
greengold
April 22, 2021 at 08:21 am
Sit tight. Hold your cards. Take your best team fits in each round. If there was a year to use all 10 picks, this is it. Deep draft, and we have a lot of bottom of roster players to improve upon: Summers, Burks, Redmond, Greene, Ento, Hollman, Lancaster, Lowry.... That's EIGHT PLAYERS taking up valuable roster positions and offering little, to no ROI.
Handsback
April 22, 2021 at 09:42 am
Look at the two positions of CB and off ball-LB. I don't think OT will be a first round selection for the Packers.
CB:
Trade up potential Farley at approx. 20th position. (That is assuming he passes the medical.)
Trade up potential Newsome at approx. 24th position. (Just remembering that he was more injured than King while in college.)
Stay in first round or trade down approx. 8 positions for Eric Stokes. (Might be the best option.)
Slot CB: This may be of more importance with new DC.
Trade up 1-2 slots or stay at current spot and take Trevon Moehrig. (Could be the greatest impact of any secondary player outside of Alexander.)
Trade down 5-8 slots and take Asante Samuels.
Off-Ball LB:
Trade up potential 24-25 for Jerimiah OK. (Great fit and real need)
Trade up potential 26-27 for Zaven Collins. (Wont cost as much and fills a need. Very high coverage grades.)
Trade down approx. 5-8 positions and select Jamin Davis. (Maybe best athlete in the group.)
Only other troubling spot I see is the Dline. I don't think there are any DT/DEs that will go in the first round. Mostly EDGE guys and would the Packers select another Edge rusher with a high pick? If the Pack doesn't get one of their guys listed above, trade down and select Barmore.
That's the way I see it playing out.
Coldworld
April 22, 2021 at 12:47 pm
I’d definitely not take Davis that high. Yes he’s a good athlete but whether he is a good football player outside of coverage is in question and he’s too raw to take that high. If someone will, let them. Archetypal RAS riser (despite avoiding both agility drills).
PhantomII
April 22, 2021 at 09:07 pm
2021 #1 get best DL / CB-S /ILB / WR Burn 2022 #1 to get to top of 2nd RD move up again w/ original 2nd RD pick, move up in 3rd RD then the rest as they play out. That should get 4- starters to help the push this season.
Win Now. Burn 2022 #2 RD pick at the trade deadline to get a player if you have to. No Guts No Glory.