Even with the addition of Xavier McKinney this offseason, safety still remains one of the Packers’ biggest priorities heading into the NFL Draft.
For one, the Packers need to bring in competition for Anthony Johnson Jr., who would be McKinney’s running mate, given how the roster is currently constructed. But on top of that, the Packers need bodies at the position as well, with only four players currently under contract.
As GM Brian Gutekunst goes about rounding out this position, he has made it clear that there will be an emphasis on versatility. At the NFL Combine, Gutekunst said that he wanted the two safety spots and the nickel corner to be “interchangeable.”
So even though McKinney can provide the most value playing deep, and in all likelihood, that is where he will play the most, the Packers want the flexibility to be able to move him around, depending on the opponent and the game plan. In order to do so, the Packers need a versatile defender next to him.
With 11 draft picks and at two-to-three roster spots to fill at the safety position, the Packers are likely going to select at least two safeties in this class. Unfortunately, at least by PFF’s rankings, this is one of the weaker position groups in this year’s class, and that pool gets even smaller when taking into account the usual size and athletic thresholds the Packers often stick to.
But nonetheless, with safety being a pressing need, the Packers have no choice but to add to this room. Here is a breakdown of seven prospects in this year’s class to know.