The Draft is coming to Titletown!
The 2025 NFL Draft is approaching, and the Green Bay Packers must make critical decisions to strengthen their roster.
After a promising but ultimately disappointing season, the team will look to add talent that can push them further in the playoffs.
Although General Manager Brian Gutekunst and head coach Matt LaFleur often emphasise a “best player available” approach, certain roster needs may take priority when the draft begins.
Wide Receiver
The Packers have struggled with consistency at the wide receiver position. The young receiving corps showed promise but led the league with 25 dropped passes and posted an 8.4% drop rate last season.
Green Bay has not selected a wide receiver in the first round since 2002. While the team has historically relied on mid-to-late-round selections to develop talent, this may be the year to break that trend.
There have also been reports that the Packers are exploring a trade for Seattle Seahawks wide receiver DK Metcalf.
If they acquire a proven veteran, their draft priorities may shift toward other positions.
Cornerback
Injuries have created major concerns for Green Bay’s secondary.
Jaire Alexander, the team’s top cornerback, has played in only 34 of the last 68 games, raising questions about depth and reliability at the position.
Some analysts believe the Packers could consider trading Alexander to free up salary cap space.
If that happens, drafting a top cornerback prospect or targeting free agents will become a priority.
Linebacker
With Eric Wilson and Isaiah McDuffie entering free agency, the Packers may need to reinforce their linebacker corps.
The defense struggled against opposing running backs and tight ends, highlighting a need for better coverage and tackling from the linebacker position.
Re-signing key players is an option, but Green Bay may also look to the draft or free agency to add a more athletic and versatile linebacker.
Offensive Line
The Packers could see changes along the offensive line, particularly at centre.
Josh Myers is set to hit free agency, and if he leaves, the team may consider shifting right tackle Zach Tom to centre.
That move would create a hole at right tackle, making offensive line a likely target in the draft.
Many mock drafts project Green Bay selecting a lineman like Kelvin Banks Jr. from Texas to solidify protection for quarterback Jordan Love.
Edge Rusher
The Packers have invested in young edge rushers, including Rashan Gary, Lukas Van Ness, and Kingsley Enagbare.
However, the defense still lacks a dominant pass rusher who can consistently disrupt opposing quarterbacks.
There has been speculation that Green Bay is in trade discussions for Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett.
If a trade materialises, it would dramatically alter their draft approach. If not, expect the Packers to target an edge rusher to enhance their defensive front.
Draft Strategy
The Packers rarely draft for positional need alone, however, there are clear weaknesses in several areas.
If the Packers take an aggressive approach in free agency, their early-round draft capital could be significantly reduced.
While some reports suggest that Green Bay is unwilling to trade a first-round pick – especially with the draft being held in their own city – I do not believe that to be the case. The organisation will prioritise what is best for the team, regardless of draft location.
With additional salary cap space and a young, talented core, the Packers have an opportunity to make significant improvements.
The 2025 NFL Draft could be the final step in turning them from playoff contenders into legitimate Super Bowl threats.
