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Zach Kruse: Edge rusher Marshawn Kneeland, Western Michigan. He’s got the size, athleticism, playstyle and growth potential the Packers typically covet at edge rusher, a premium position. He also went to the Senior Bowl, visited Green Bay pre-draft and has a direct connection to former Packers assistant Tim Lester, who recruited Kneeland to WMU and is a good friend of Matt LaFleur. Dane Brugler has Kneeland as his No. 32 player in the class, so it’s possible the Packers see him as a first-round player.
Brandon Carwile: WR Brian Thomas Jr., LSU. After adding Jayden Reed and Dontayion Wicks a year ago, the wide receiver room appears to be in good hands. But leave it to the Packers to shock everyone by drafting a receiver in the first round for the first time since 2002. Measuring 6-3, 209 pounds with 4.3 speed and big-play potential, Thomas is precisely the kind of pass catcher Green Bay covets.
Paul Bretl: OT Kingsley Suamataia, BYU: Going back to the shortlist I created, Suamataia was one of my final six prospects–essentially checking every box when it comes to what the Packers look for in a first-round pick. Now, admittedly, 25 may be too soon to select him, but there are some draft analysts who have Suamataia as a late first-round pick, and the Packers aren’t too far off from that part of the draft.
Brennen Rupp: S Jaden Hicks, Washington State. Hicks is the 37th-ranked player on my board and 39th-ranked player on Dane Brugler’s board. Hicks is young, versatile and athletic. He’s a downhill enforcer who punishes pass catchers that enter his strike zone. Hicks will turn 22 in August and would pair nicely with Xavier McKinney.
Daniel Miller is a sports fanatic who lives and breathes athletics. His coverage spans from major league championships to local sports events, delivering up-to-the-minute updates and in-depth analysis for sports enthusiasts.
