Now that the Green Bay Packers’ 2024 season is over, the offseason can officially begin.
Despite the Packers being one-and-done in the playoffs, this team might only be a few pieces away from being a legitimate Super Bowl contender.
Fortunately, one of the best draft analysts in the business, Dane Brugler of The Athletic, released a two-round mock draft to gauge what teams may be looking for in this draft cycle to improve their roster.
The 2025 NFL Draft is less than 100 days away and will be held in Green Bay for the first time in league history. With so much to look forward to regarding the Packers’ future, let’s see who Brugler has them taking in his two-round mock:
Pick 23: Tyleik Williams, DT, Ohio State
Brugler: “The Packers’ defensive line was disappointing this season, and the front office must balance the possibility of players already on the roster getting better against adding premium talent. If general manager Brian Gutekunst looks for an upgrade in the first round, Williams — and his disruptive nature — would make sense.”
Fit with the Packers: As Brugler mentioned, Green Bay’s defensive line play was underwhelming this season, especially along the interior. Kenny Clark’s production saw a significant dip, finishing with his lowest totals in tackles and sacks since his rookie season. Devonte Wyatt got off to a strong start but was less impactful during the second half of the season and battled multiple injuries. TJ Slaton, Karl Brooks, and Colby Wooden have been fine rotational pieces but nothing more.
Adding one of the best interior defensive linemen in the country could be an option. Throughout his time at Ohio State, Williams flashed an ability to play from different alignments along the D-line, finishing his college career with 132 tackles, 27 tackles for loss, and 11.5 sacks. The Packers need a three-down lineman, and Williams’ versatility could make him a great fit.
Pick 54: Jordan Burch, Edge, Oregon
Oregon defensive end Jordan Burch brings down Boise State quarterback Maddux Madsen as the Oregon Ducks host the Boise State Broncos Saturday, Sept. 7, 2024 at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Ore.
Fit with Packers: Brugler decided to double-dip on defense through the first two rounds. Jeff Hafley exceeded expectations in his first season as the defensive coordinator, turning the Packers into a top-10 unit in total defense and scoring. However, one area where Green Bay’s defense fell short was consistently getting home with a four-man pass rush.
Lukas Van Ness and Kingsley Enagbare failed to distinguish themselves after the Preston Smith trade. Rashan Gary was named to his first Pro Bowl but was far too inconsistent, failing to reach double-digit sacks for a sixth straight year. Former undrafted free agent Brenton Cox Jr. had his moments but might be best-suited for a backup role.
Burch would bring some much-needed juice off the edge after breaking out with 8.5 sacks in 2024 while also proving to be an effective run defender. At 6-4, 291 pounds, Burch’s size and playstyle also align well with what Hafley looks for at the edge spot in his 4-3 defense.