2013 NFL Draft: Packers First-Round Big Board

The 2013 NFL draft begins Thursday, April 25. Here's a look at the first-round big board for the Green Bay Packers.

The Green Bay Packers are currently slotted to pick at No. 26 overall in first round of Thursday's 2013 NFL draft.

We've established a first-round big board to help sort out who the Packers could eventually take with that pick later this week.

The prospects are separated into two categories: players in the "Likely to be Gone" section are near-locks to be taken before No. 26 overall; the remaining players worthy of first-round selection are sorted into a final big board.

A combination of personal evaluation, information gathering and positional need helped establish the big board. A vast collection of mock drafts were used to decide which players would likely be off the board by No. 26.

Likely to be Gone

--OT Luke Joeckel, Texas A&M
--OT Eric Fisher, Central Michigan
--DE Dion Jordan, Oregon
--OLB Ziggy Ansah, BYU
--CB Dee Milliner, Alabama
--OT Lane Johnson, Oklahoma
--OG Chance Warmack, Alabama
--OLB Barkevious Mingo, LSU
--DL Star Lotulelei, Utah
--DT Sheldon Richardson, Missouri
--DL Sharrif Floyd, Florida
--S Kenny Vaccaro, Texas
--WR Tavon Austin, West Virginia
--DE Bjoern Werner, Florida State
--QB Geno Smith, West Virginia
--CB Xavier Rhodes, Florida State
--WR Cordarrelle Patterson, Tennessee
--OG Jonathan Cooper, UNC
--OLB Jarvis Jones, Georgia

First-Round Big Board

1. DL Datone Jones, UCLA

Powerful five technique with extensive experience in the 3-4 defense. Weighs 283  pounds, but plays much bigger than his size; routinely took on double-team blocks at UCLA and still pushed the pocket. Can be devastating with his hands in one-on-one situations. Stanford simply couldn't handle him for long stretches in Pac-12 title game. Has ideal length; measured at 6'4" with 33" inch arms at the combine. If need be, frame suggests that he can add weight.. Occasionally stood up as a edge rusher or was asked to be a one-man line across from center. Hustle on every snap, a leader on the field. Impressed at the Senior Bowl. Could be an immediate three-down player. Should be plenty of competition for his services before No. 26 overall. Jones, B.J. Raji and Ryan Pickett would make an attractive base front.

2. S Jonathan Cyprien, FIU

NFL-ready body at 6'0" and a well-built 217 pounds. Uses his build to make his presence known against both the pass and run. Most experienced playing in the box; finished his career as FIU's all-time leading tackler. Possesses range as a centerfield type, as evidenced by impressive track and catch against Louisville. Straight-line speed isn't elite, but he plays much faster on tape than his 40-time. Fearless hitter when the ballcarrier is in his vicinity. Capable as either strong or free safety, while providing a vocal, passionate leader in the secondary. Impressed almost everyone at the Senior Bowl. In the Dashon Goldson mold, but maybe more athletic. Could very well be gone by No. 26. Immediate starter potential alongside Morgan Burnett.

3. TE Tyler Eifert, Notre Dame

The most complete tight end in the class, without much question. Lined up as an in-line tight end, "X" receiver and in the slot, and was productive at each spot. Tested well at the combine but doesn't always win in the passing game with athleticism. Makes all the catches, including those in traffic, with consistency. Attacks and tracks the football in the air. Combines 6'5" frame with a 36" vertical. Obvious that improvement in the blocking area was important to him; he improved every season while in South Bend and is now a capable blocker. Wouldn't be a shock if he was off the board at No. 26. Losing Greg Jennings in free agency opens up play-making opportunities, and Jermichael Finley might not be long for Green Bay after 2013.

4. S Matt Elam, Florida

Violent, electric ball of confident energy. Only 5'10", but packs 208 solid pounds on his frame. Uses that compact frame to impose his will against ball carriers. Consistently flashed as a playmaker when near the line of scrimmage; is experienced as a blitzer and covering receivers in the slot. Very good straight-line speed. Exudes confidence during and after the play. Willing and able to contribute on special teams. Very likely to be available at No. 26 overall, but might be too small size-wise. Would be expected to start alongside Burnett right away.

5. ILB Arthur Brown, Kansas State

Somewhat undersized, but you wouldn't be able to tell watching his film. Plays strong and fast, with instincts to find the football and make the tackle even when taking on bigger blockers. Athletic marvel who can play sideline-to-sideline and cover tight ends and running backs in space. Almost never misses a tackle. Picked off both Robert Griffin III and Geno Smith in his collegiate career. Respected leader. Toss up if he'll be on the board at No. 26, and recent decisions at inside linebacker suggest the Packers are set at the position, at least for 2013.

6. OT D.J. Fluker, Alabama

A monster of a man who is best suited to play right tackle. His 6'5", 339-pound frame allows him to maul defenders in the run game. Might be better inside as a guard. Serious question marks about how he'd hold in the passing game against faster, more athletic rushers at the next level. Almost zero chance he could be a suitable answer at left tackle, making first-round value a debatable point. If he's taken at No. 26 overall, the Packers would then plan on moving Bryan Bulaga to left tackle for the first time in his professional career.

7. RB Eddie Lacy, Alabama

A battering ram of a back who should be able to handle 25 or more touches every game at the NFL level. Weighs 231 pounds, and possesses a strong lower body capable of running through tackle attempts. Agile and fluid in his movements despite his size. Not an every-down home-run hitter, but he's far from a "plodder." You do wonder if he's dynamic enough to be a first-round pick, and his pass protection leaves a lot to be desired. Question marks surrounding how he tested this offseason. The Packers could team him with DuJuan Harris and create the best 1-2 running punch they've had in Green Bay during the Rodgers era.

8. S Eric Reid, LSU

Athleticism is elite, and he predictably tested well at the combine. Size is also a big plus at 6'1" and 213 pounds, with 33 5/8" arms. LSU asked him to play in the box and as a free-ranger, and he proved equally adept at both callings. Few safeties in the class close faster or hit harder, although he sometimes runs himself out of plays. Some prefer Reid in the second round, but who knows how long he'll last after No. 26.

9. DL Jesse Williams, Alabama

One of the strongest players in the draft, with the versatility to play on the nose and at the five-technique. Strength and a high motor will make him a potential starter right out of the gates. Uses his power to get under the pads of linemen and disrupt plays against the run. Provided very little in terms of a pass rush and may never have much of an impact against the pass. Toughness and size are obvious positives that the Packers might like, although No. 26 might be too rich.

10. ILB Alec Ogletree, Georgia

A former safety who has the athleticism you'd expect from someone making that transition. Can aggressively close on plays in space, sideline-to-sideline. Possibly the top inside linebacker prospect covering tight ends and running backs. Accomplished blitzer from the inside. Struggles to take on and shed blocks, and would rather avoid linemen than take them on head-first. Off-the-field red flags. Potential three-down player, but a serious risk at No. 26 overall, especially at a position with established depth.

11. OT Menelik Watson, Florida State

Super raw, but obviously moldable. Limited football experience could give him an unthinkable ceiling, especially considering how many steps forward he made at tackle in such a short time. Athletic, with light feet and a perfect frame (6'5", 34" arms). With much tinkering still needed, it's very difficult to project him as a rookie starter at left tackle. Will also turn 25 years old during his rookie season. If there's not an overwhelming offensive tackle on the board (he isn't one), Green Bay should skip the position at No. 26.

12. DE Margus Hunt, SMU

His ceiling is as high as any player's in this draft. Measures 6'8" but still ran in the 4.6 range and put up 38 reps at 225, which is about as rare a combination as you'll find. Tape doesn't always match up to the measurables and can disappear from games. Still raw and will need good coaching to be dominant at the next level. Blocked a ridiculous 17 kicks during his collegiate career. The former junior gold medal winner in track and field will turn 25 years old in July, which might turn some teams off. He might be too risky for the Packers to take at No. 26, but his all-world ceiling is certainly enticing.

13. DE/OLB Tank Carradine, Florida State

At 276 pounds, you question his fit as a 3-4 outside linebacker or at the five technique. Potential diamond in the rough if a 3-4 coordinator could get creative. Plays with explosion off the snap and agility to bend and work around tackles. Hand usage is among the best in the class, with an ability to swipe away reach attempts with ease. A torn ACL stunted his meteoric rise, but his rehab appears ahead of schedule. An obvious fit and injury risk at No. 26, but there's big-time potential reward, too.

14. TE Zach Ertz, Stanford

Versatile and big-bodied target who has experience across the offensive formation, playing inline and in the slot. More of a smooth, fluid athlete than explosive. Hands and blocking ability might both be a step down from Eifert, but only slightly. Nice to get better as an inline blocker. Excelled at making catches away from his body and securing yards after the catch. Did have some problems with concentration on "easier" catches. Some have compared him to Jason Witten. Might be better as a second-round option.

15. DL Sylvester Williams, UNC

An active, high-character lineman who is an interesting fit in the 3-4 defense. Could potentially play on the nose, but off-the-ball quickness suggests an impact as a five-technique. Has a wide body and is strong at identifying the football. Not a great pass rusher or pocket collapser. Needs to become a more versatile weapon. The value is debatable for the Packers at No. 26 overall.

16. WR DeAndre Hopkins, Clemson

Experienced, productive receiver who knows how to separate with deceptive route-running. Can win with footwork and route manipulation and has the quickness needed in and out of breaks. Makes all the catches with ease, using 10" hands and 34" arms to secure the football no matter where its thrown in his catching radius. Doesn't have burner speed and won't out-physical many NFL corners with size. Has big upside in a high-volume passing offense like Green Bay's. Might be attractive considering the loss of Jennings and free-agency status of Finley and James Jones after 2013.

17. CB Desmond Trufant, Washington

Strong football bloodlines but has a chance to be the best of the family. Has strong pressing abilities and uses his length to play the football in the air. Opened eyes at the Senior Bowl and then blazed through the NFL combine (4.38 seconds). The Packers are set at cornerback, making his selection at No. 26 an unlikely scenario.

Zach Kruse is a 24-year-old sports writer who contributes to Cheesehead TV, Bleacher Report and the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. He also covers prep sports for the Dunn Co. News. You can reach him on Twitter @zachkruse2 or by email at [email protected].

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Comments (75)

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britpack's picture

April 23, 2013 at 09:20 am

What about Woods and Allen! At one point the number 1 rated WR would be tempting. .

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FITZCORE 1252'S EVO's picture

April 23, 2013 at 09:38 am

Jones, Cyprien or Ogletree... I would be ecstatic with either one.

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Drealyn Williams's picture

April 24, 2013 at 09:20 am

Cyprien in the 1st though???

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redlights's picture

April 23, 2013 at 09:46 am

I just don't see the buzz about Lacy. First, he played behind an almost NFL OLine; pass pro isn't rock solid; poor measurable; ....

Dline or Safety. In Ted I trust.

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Jay's picture

April 23, 2013 at 10:14 am

I'd rather have Cyprien in 1st than Jones bc I think the drop off talent in the second round will be steeper at S than DL

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al's picture

April 23, 2013 at 08:44 pm

j he will be gone by then

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Mojo's picture

April 23, 2013 at 11:01 am

I get the feeling with all the internal talk about how puny the Packers are relative to everyone else, they will pass on Brown. Plus they already have a smaller inside guy in Smith.

If they take Lacy with the 26th, I'll be pissed. If they have to have him, trade down into the second where he'll be available and pick up another top half of the draft choice at the same time.

Do you take a safety at 26, when you can probably get a good one later? Once again, if they're thinking that way trade down and get him in the second.

The status of Sherrod has kind of thrown a money-wrench on drafting an o-lineman in the first. If he is healthy and plays well, then do we really need an o-lineman outside of the center position? I think Fluker has an appeal to GB, because he is a bit bigger than the rest.

I get the feeling this is Finley's last year in GB. There's no way they can afford anything near what they're paying him this year if they want to keep some of their other players coming due next year. If so then consider Eifert and get Finley's drama-ass out of here.

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Rokkstar's picture

April 24, 2013 at 07:47 am

I agree on all accounts. Well done.

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Derek in CO's picture

April 23, 2013 at 11:03 am

I really like Cyprien, Fluker or Eifert. The more I think about it, the more I think TT could go Eifert, esp. after losing Greg Jennings and will soon lose Finley. Good news, there are still alot of good players still there at 26.

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Brian's picture

April 23, 2013 at 12:35 pm

Logical explanation on why Eifert makes the most sense...usually when it seems so right, it doesn't happen. I hope you are right.

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packsmack25's picture

April 23, 2013 at 11:16 am

None of the safeties are tall enough while still being fast enough to be drafted by TT. All of the safeties he drafts are at least 6 feet tall and run their 40 in the 4.4 range. There's no one that fits. I doubt he's going to break his own mold when making a first round pick.

I've also mentioned before that it's incredibly unlikely that TT values a RB, TE, or WR as a first rounder. They just aren't wise 1st round picks. So we're looking at linemen, linebackers, and probably one CB in particular. I think the board looks more like this:

1. Alec Ogletree (His tape screams game-changer)
2. Sylvester Williams (Versatile, strong, probably slightly less agile than you'd like, but it's pick 26)
3. Jesse Williams (I think his combination of size/strength/agility/versatility is extremely rare, reminds me of Haloti Ngata.)
4. Desmond Trufant (TT drafted his brother and he fits the size/speed requirements to a T)
5. DJ Fluker (A monster that doesn't quite fit in the Packers offense, but he probably won't be there anyway)
6. Damontre Moore (Not sure why he's not included on the board here. Combine results won't knock him that far down)
7. Datone Jones (Tape is good, but I worry about adding bulk and losing flexibility/agility)

I think these last 4 are second rounders:

8. Margus Hunt (Tape is ridiculous, although it's weak competition. Raw, and adding bulk could hurt him just like Jones)
9. Tank Carradine (Would force Capers to be creative, which is when Capers is at his best, but that's not a very good reason to draft a guy)
10. Menelik Watson (Raw, old, and probably not versatile enough)
11. Arthur Brown (Tape did nothing for me)

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Derek in CO's picture

April 23, 2013 at 11:24 am

isn't Cyprien 6'0"? And I thought Reid was at least 6'1". Nice try though.

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packsmack25's picture

April 23, 2013 at 11:29 am

Neither runs under 4.6 in the 40. They have to do both.

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packsmack25's picture

April 23, 2013 at 11:34 am

Meant to say 4.5.

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Derek in CO's picture

April 23, 2013 at 11:52 am

I checked NFL's website. Only three safeties ran under 4.5 (Shamarko Thomas, 5'9", Earl Wolff, 5'11", and Shawn Williams, 6'0"). That leave no safeties TT would take, right?

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packsmack25's picture

April 23, 2013 at 11:53 am

Not in the first, nope.

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packsmack25's picture

April 23, 2013 at 11:58 am

Wolff, Shawn Williams, Cody Davis, and Don Jones are the most likely TT safeties, and all of them have mid-round grades.

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MarkinMadison's picture

April 23, 2013 at 12:25 pm

1. I don't see Ogletree being on TT's board in the first because of character issues.

4. I'd be unhappy if TT went CB in the first. There are so many other areas of need.

Really, all of the rest, I think would be good picks. I don't see the huge drop-off at S that some see. If they stand pat I think it is probably to pick Datone Jones or one of the Williams DLs - maybe Eifert at TE if he is still available.

I'd be happy if TT traded back to the top of the 2nd and picked up an extra pick later on. A lot of the QBs seem to belong in the lower part of the first, so I think there is at least a fair chance of this happening.

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packsmack25's picture

April 23, 2013 at 12:37 pm

I really doubt Ogletree would be there, but if he were, his tape greatly outweighs him being a minor knucklehead in college. As for not drafting a CB, I think TT is going to take BPA, and I think that the only reason he won't take a RB/TE/WR is that he won't grade those positions as highly as others. As stroh said below though, Sylvester Williams, if he's there, is the most likely guy, and I agree. We'll see.

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James's picture

April 23, 2013 at 12:38 pm

Jesse Williams is not like Ngata, in my opinion. He had 2.5 sacks last year, and simply doesn;t penetrate in a way that generates a ton of pass rush. Ngata is a far better athlete, in my opinion. But Williams is incredibly strong, and great against the run, commanding double-teams in the run game, so his value to the Packers would be tremendous in that regard.

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packsmack25's picture

April 23, 2013 at 12:47 pm

Ngata wasn't a pass rusher until the last 3 seasons. It's something he's developed. I also think that the talent surrounding Jesse Williams dictated that he eat up blocks, rather than penetrate, as they had plenty of penetrators on that defense. Look at Jesse Williams's 40, 3 cone, and shuttle times, and they're all comparable to Ngata's back when he was drafted. The comparisons are very valid.

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James's picture

April 23, 2013 at 12:56 pm

I gues we will just have to agree to disagree on this. I have watched tape on Williams, and I just don't see the athleticism that Ngata has. But you are right in that the scheme Alabama employs dictated that he ate up blockers, so I could be wrong.

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packsmack25's picture

April 23, 2013 at 01:03 pm

I'm not saying he's comparable to the current version of Ngata at all, but he's definitely comparable to the 2006 version of Ngata. The measurables are all very close, with many of them actually favoring Williams. Let me put it this way, if we don't snag him, he's going to end up in New England or San Fran, guaranteed.

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California Cheesehead's picture

April 23, 2013 at 04:37 pm

Am I wrong to put Casey Hampton in this group? I'm not familiar with his measurables, but was a solid interior d-lineman that did his duty, but didn't get to the quarterback as often, so it seemed.

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packsmack25's picture

April 23, 2013 at 04:47 pm

Hampton was shorter and a little slower. Like Pickett. More of a space eater.

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Stroh's picture

April 23, 2013 at 11:28 am

Its well known the Packers want to get bigger and longer on the DL. Jones at only 280 is another in what is a long line of undersized DL. Why would they look at Jones if the stated goal is to get bigger and more physical? No way they take Jones.

Cyprien is a 2nd round talent, if he's on the board at #55 that fits, if he's gone by then, no big deal.

DL look at Syl Williams or Kawann Short and at Safety look at Reid.

Margus Hunt is a 43 DE, not a 34 DE. All edge rush and for strength he doesn't play nearly as strong. Gets pushed around on run plays due to poor leverage.

Watson is allegedly an athletic OT. Except he's not as athletic as Sherrod or Newhouse. Not to mention he's a project and is older. He'll be pushing 30 yrs old by the time he might be good.

Fluker is a power run blocker who struggles in pass pro. How is he going to hold up when asked to pass block more than run block? He'll struggle and be a bust, not unlike Carimi was.

Eifert might be there, but I don't see Thompson taking a TE with other needs.

Lacy is a 2nd round prospect IMO, especially after he bombed his own pro day. But is still a strong possibility. Guess it depends how much stock the Packer put in his pro day.

Elam is another 2nd round safety, this draft is loaded w/ them.

IMO I think it comes down to Syl Williams, Short, Reid, Ogletree and Lacy. Thompsons known for valuing the big guys.

At this moment my guess is Sylvester Williams is the pick. Need, grade and availability meet at #26 for Williams and the Packers.

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packsmack25's picture

April 23, 2013 at 11:31 am

Unfortunately Ogletree is probably going to end up a Bear or Viking, if he even lasts that long. He's really, really good.

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Stroh's picture

April 23, 2013 at 12:07 pm

I agree completely, otherwise he would have been the pick over Syl Williams. I hope to God he doesn't go to Chi or Minn, but I see that along w/ NYG as the most likely landing spot for him. I love Ogletree's game and I agree w/ you. His game tape screams playmaker/gamechanger!

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packsmack25's picture

April 23, 2013 at 11:40 am

Oh, and I agree, Sly Williams makes the most sense as of now. I'm really hoping they can trade back, but I doubt they'll find a partner.

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Stroh's picture

April 23, 2013 at 12:11 pm

You and I are on the same wavelength. Given the somewhat limited options, or is it too many options? I think trading down would be ideal. Hope a team at top 2nd really wants Barcley or Nassib at QB. Only chance I see of trading down. There's going to be a lot of teams at the end of 1st that would like to move down, but if it happens at all, it will be only one that gets the chance.

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Mojo's picture

April 23, 2013 at 02:04 pm

You bring up a good point Stroh. There might be a lot of teams looking to trade down, much more so than normal. And it might be from all areas of the first round. If a GM is intent on trading down, he might need to accept less "value" than anticipated. I expect more draft movement trades than usual this year.

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al's picture

April 23, 2013 at 08:56 pm

some one needing QB mite bite #26 and we take 2 pics 2 round or trade 49ers for #31 and second round pic ? what ya think packmac25 ?

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lmills's picture

April 23, 2013 at 11:42 am

I'd say Jones, Eifert or Hopkins in the first. I'd pass on all the rest. Best case scenario is trading down 6-8 spots and drafting the same people we're talking about and acquiring an extra mid round pick. The middle rounds are loaded with talent.

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Packattack88's picture

April 23, 2013 at 11:50 am

I'm going to go ahead and go to bat for S. Williams here. He's a much better pass rusher than you suggest. His impact looks limited on film do to the amount of double teams he saw as a senior. Despite this, he still managed to split them regularly and has a deadly swim move. I did film reviews on both him and D. Jones at APC and in my opinion Williams is the more complete two-gap prospect.

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James's picture

April 23, 2013 at 12:03 pm

RB: Eddie Lacy is the ONLY back in this draft possibly worth a 1st round pick, but it’s more likely he gets picked in the early to mid 2nd, especially after his pro-day. Bell is a 3rd round prospect at best. Another back to watch is Texas A&M’s Christine Michael.

TE: Eifert would be a very good option if he;s available, but after his combine performance, he may very well not be there. Ertz is a 2nd round prospect. Gavin Escobar from San Diego State may be a guy to watch in the late 2nd.

WR: Keenan Allen’s stock is falling after PCL surgery, he may end up in the 2nd round. Woods may also end up in the 2nd due to his lack of speed. A name to watch potentially is Justin Hunter from Tennessee. He is a tall (6’4") long receiver with game breaking speed. His issues were concentration lapses leading to drops last year. DeAndre Hopkins is also an option, he is solid, but not the potential game-breaker that Hunter is.

OL: Fluker is a bad fit, and likely won;t be there. Watson is too raw for my tastes, but could be their guy. Another name to watch is Kyle Long from Oregon. He has great size (6’6? 313 lbs.)and quick feet. He played guard in college, but a lot of scouts think he could make the move to LT because of his quick feet. Jonathan Cooper WOULD be a great fit, but he will be long-gone. I doubt he gets past SD at 11.

DL: Jones has disruptive skills, but would likely get lost in the run game at his size. At this point, the Packers need to focus on stopping the run. I love Williams as a 2nd round pick, but definitely not in the first. Same goes for Hunt, who is quite raw, and the scheme fit may be awkward for him, even though he has room to gain weight. His 8 blocked kicks in 14 games cannot be overlooked though. Short is a 2nd round pick as well due to his inconsistent play. Another name to look for could be John Jenkins from Georgia. He is a MASSIVE DT (6’3? 358 lbs.). But for his size, he has very quick feet, and showed the ability to penetrate at times. His effort gets called in to question. It's starting to look as is S. Williams may be gone as well, but his penetrating ability and size does translate well to the scheme GB runs. Carradine is coming off of knee surgery, and is likely better as a 4-3 RE.

ILB: Arthur Brown to me is a 2nd round pick. He is a tackling machine, but is VERY undersized, and would probably get eaten by guard in the middle of the scheme. His best fit is probably at will LB in a 4-3. Ogletree and Te’o may be gone anyways, but LSU’s Kevin Minter could be a name to look out for.

OLB: If Jones falls that far, then his medical is worse than we thought.

CB: If Xavier Rhodes is there, they will have to give it serious consideration. Especially since several NFL scouts see him as a free safety rather than a corner. I doubt he will be there at 26 though, and probably won’t make it past Indy at 24, at the very latest.

S: Vaccaro will be gone. In my opinion, there is no other 1st round safety that will fit what GB wants. Cyprien has some athleticism, but is better suited to a SS role. Same with Matt Elam. Eric Reid, to me, is a 2nd round pick due to his inconsistency, but his athletic skills are intriguing. Amerson played CB in college, but like Rhodes, could also make a transition to safety. He was very inconsistent last year, often being abused by receivers double moves. (Watch the Clemson game where he is torched by DeAndre Hopkins.) He is, at best, a 2nd round pick, and very well could go in the 3rd.

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Ma Linger's picture

April 23, 2013 at 12:31 pm

James, I read that one team already said they will pick Eifert if he is available, I think the Giants, so I have him and actually Lacy gone (Rams) before us.

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James's picture

April 23, 2013 at 12:40 pm

I wouldn't be shocked if both are gone. Especially Eifert. His combine performance opened a lot of eyes. I personally wouldn't take Lacy in the 1st, but it's not my decision to make, and St. Louis needs a big back.

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PackerNation's picture

April 23, 2013 at 12:17 pm

They aren't going to take DL smaller than 300 pounds, and they aren't going to take a RB in the first round. They won't take an OLB in the first round unless they think Perry isn't going to play this year. They won't take an OT in the first round. They won't take a safety in the first round because the safety they want is available later. And Keenan Allen apparently failed his drug test at the combine.

So...despite throwing about 15 possibilities out there, I think you've whiffed. If the Packers have to pick at #26, and Vacarro hasn't fallen to them, they'll take that big pig out of Ohio State, Hankins.

He's big. And he's one of the quickest DTs in the draft as measure by his performance in the cone and shuttle drills.

If this guy had stayed in school for his senior season, he'd be a first part of the first round pick next year.

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James's picture

April 23, 2013 at 12:20 pm

Like I said above as well, look for John Jenkins out of Georgia as well. He is a massive DT with quick feet and showed penetration ability on occasion. He is similar to Hankins, so Either wouldn;t surprise me. But, like has been said many times, the best option is to try to trade down, unless a gem falls to them.

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Zach Kruse's picture

April 23, 2013 at 12:25 pm

My comment wasn't directed at you.

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James's picture

April 23, 2013 at 12:25 pm

Ok.

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Zach Kruse's picture

April 23, 2013 at 12:21 pm

Are you privy to inside knowledge the rest of us aren't? Because you're throwing around certainties like you do. Draft commenters that know everything and can talk in certainties are typically of the worst kind.

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James's picture

April 23, 2013 at 12:24 pm

I'm not throwing any certainties around, just listing potential options.

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jmac34's picture

April 23, 2013 at 12:26 pm

don't think he means you james

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PackerNation's picture

April 23, 2013 at 12:28 pm

Hey Zach....you might be right and I might be wrong. But I don't think so. I don't profess any inside knowledge.

But...I know that we need to get bigger and more physical on defense. That isn't accomplished by drafting undersized guys.

I know that Thompson doesn't value the RB position that much.

I know the Packers are keenly interested in safety JJ Wilcox because I've read that in a publication that's been right quite a few times before.

We've spent first round picks on OTs in two of the last three years. We aren't going to make it three out of four.

If that's too certain for you, I'm sorry, but that's the way it looks to me.

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Stroh's picture

April 23, 2013 at 12:26 pm

Hankins is a possibility. I think Syl Williams is the better overall prospect and pass rusher, so I give him the nod over Hankins. I would take Hankins way before Jesse Williams tho. I like Shorts game more than Hankins. He is really good interior pass rusher and has incredibly long 35 in arms and is adept at disrupting passing lanes. Short was also listed at 310 pre combine, so I'm thinking he dropped wt to get quicker. I think he'll play at 310. His length is a great fit as a 34 DE.

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PackerNation's picture

April 23, 2013 at 12:35 pm

I like Short too, but he doesn't make us bigger in the front seven. Just like Sheldon Richardson doesn't. They may be great pros, they might fit better in a 4-3 or with some other 3-4 teams that doesn't have the size issue we do, but I just don't see us drafting smaller linemen this year and more that I see us taking a QB in the first round.

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Stroh's picture

April 23, 2013 at 03:13 pm

Its not just about weight its also about length. Short at 310 and w 35 in arms is about ideal. He and Syl Williams are w/in 10 lbs of Hankins and J. Williams. And IMO offer a better all around game.

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RC Packer Fan's picture

April 23, 2013 at 12:39 pm

I agree Stroh... I think Williams is an underated prospect. Not many are talking about him. I feel he would be a great fit with the Packers.

the closer we get the more I think he will be the Packers 1st pick.

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THEMichaelRose's picture

April 23, 2013 at 02:58 pm

There are obviously a lot of big men available near the end of Round 1, because no one has mentioned Jenkins out of Georgia yet. He could be our new Pickett. It'd be a boring pick, but it'd be sound.

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Stroh's picture

April 23, 2013 at 03:32 pm

Jenkins has fallen. Maybe all the way to 3rd. Ok w taking him in 3rd. Don't know if I would take him in 2nd tho. Forget about him in 1st.

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James's picture

April 23, 2013 at 03:36 pm

I never said he was a 1st rounder, he's just a name to watch out for because he is a massive 2 gap tackle with some quickness. I haven't read anything about him falling to the 3rd, 2nd at most, because he is seen to take too many plays off.

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RC Packer Fan's picture

April 23, 2013 at 03:40 pm

I don't know. If you look at Scout's Inc's top 32 on Espn's website. They have Jenkins rated at 26.
I would like Jenkins cuz I think he would add much needed girth up front. I just am not sure where his true value is.
If they can get him in the 2nd round, I would do it.

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NashvillePacker's picture

April 23, 2013 at 09:14 pm

I like Hankins. Seems like he'd improve the run defense and be a long term answer at NT. Surely an upgrade over CJ Wilson. And many reviews praise his toughness and work ethic.

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PackerNation's picture

April 23, 2013 at 12:24 pm

Oh, and as regards the theory that we'd take a TE, let me pose this question.

We've got an $8 million prima donna man-child at that position. If we draft a TE in the first round, what message does that send him? Do you really want to pay $8 million for a guy whose going to pout and whine about how the Packers apparently don't want him in their future? Or do you think he's not the kind of guy who'd do that.

We're not taking slightly undersized Aaron Brown at LB. We're not take "struggles to take on blockers" Ogletree. We are trying to get bigger and more physical, not quicker and more finesse.

Process of elimination, people. What you have left is a couple of big DTs in Williams and Hankins and Hankins is the quicker, more polished player of the two.

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MarkinMadison's picture

April 23, 2013 at 12:30 pm

I think he'll pout and whine if he is not seeing the ball enough for his taste, regardless of whether the Packers draft a TE. If he gets the ball he will figure he will get his money. Either way, he will go out on the free market and hope for a bidding war.

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Ma Linger's picture

April 23, 2013 at 12:26 pm

Ola Ma Linger likes Cyprien and Jones. Can we pick two?

We all read things and I heard one team will take Eifert if he is available picking before we do and that the Rams kind of covet Lacy and will take him if some of the top receivers are gone. So I took both of those out of the picture as not available.
Monty Ball will be our new guy.

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mark's picture

April 23, 2013 at 12:36 pm

I want either Kawann Short or Matt Elam in round 1.

I'd be ok with DeAndre Hopkins, Cyprien, Reid Menelik Watson.

I don't like Datone Jones, Arthur Brown, Margus Hunt, Lacy.

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Derek in CO's picture

April 23, 2013 at 12:39 pm

My gut says TT will trade down out of the first round to pick up another 2nd or 3rd rounder, and I'd be ok with that. positions we need will still be plentiful thru round 3.

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James's picture

April 23, 2013 at 12:43 pm

I agree. For all this draft lacks in star power, it is still an incredibly deep draft. The 2nd and 3rd rounds may be just as valuable as the 1st this year.

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packsmack25's picture

April 23, 2013 at 12:49 pm

Takes 2 to tango though. I think the past 2 seasons, TT has wanted to trade down, but couldn't, so he took BPA. Could see that again.

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James's picture

April 23, 2013 at 12:54 pm

Completely agree. This year is slightly different though. With the QB needy teams in the top of the 2nd, they may have opportunity to trade back with a team who is targeting Nassib, Barkley, or even G. Smith if he falls. (which is very much a possibility.)

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Stroh's picture

April 23, 2013 at 03:27 pm

QB needy teams are always at the top of each round. Precisely becuz they are QB needy usually.

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mark's picture

April 23, 2013 at 12:54 pm

There's also the flip-side logic. With so many teams wanting to trade back, the Packers might be able to trade UP at a relative bargain/low cost.

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James's picture

April 23, 2013 at 12:58 pm

I could see that, especially if a guy like Vaccaro falls in to a certain range unexpectedly.

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packsmack25's picture

April 23, 2013 at 01:18 pm

I'd do a backflip if we traded up for Floyd, but that would not be possible to do and get a bargain. No one else out of our reach excites me even a little.

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mark's picture

April 23, 2013 at 03:20 pm

I like Ansah a lot.

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Cole's picture

April 23, 2013 at 02:00 pm

I don't care about his pro-day, if Jarvis Jones slips past 12, you gotta trade up to get him (Assuming the pack did a health check on his spine). He should be the number one pick. Him and Perry in a rotation would be amazing. And if god forbid either Perry or CM goes down, we are still okay. But he's the only one I'd trade up for.

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Sunshinepacker's picture

April 23, 2013 at 02:10 pm

Carradine is perfectly sized to play 3-4 DE. Chris Canty was only about 5 lbs heavier coming out of college. Justin Smith, who has turned into a dominant 3-4 DE, was actually smaller than Carradine coming out of college.

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James's picture

April 23, 2013 at 03:46 pm

A guy I like in the middle rounds is Arkansas RB Knile Davis. The guy has 1st round talent, but he will fall because he's injury prone. He is 6' 220 lbs. and ran a 4.37 40 yd dash. He kind of reminds me of Demarco Murray, a super talent who can't stay healthy. But if he somehow can, he will be a game-breaker. I doubt TT will take a chance on an injury prone RB, but it's a gamble that could pay off huge dividends.

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NashvillePacker's picture

April 23, 2013 at 09:19 pm

Watson would be a massive disappointment for me. He played RT. he's old for a draft choice. And he's not a clear upgrade over options already on the roster.

I'll guess Reid, Hankins or Lacy. Forced to pick one Ill say Hankins. With so many options a safety could be had later.

I don't see Cyprien as a great fit with concerns about his coverage. Eifert will be gone apparently.

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Turophile's picture

April 24, 2013 at 04:56 am

I'm thinking it will be a big guy. Datone Jones, Jonathan Hankins, Sylvester Williams, Kawann Short, Margus Hunt, Jesse Williams. One of them in round one.

In fact, there are so many options here, I imagine Ted's crew will be working the phones hard to find a trade partner to move back in the draft and still get one.

If Ted goes elsewhere with the first pick, then Brandon Williams and John Jenkins come into play in round two.

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Rokkstar's picture

April 24, 2013 at 07:22 am

I agree. Also, the packer brass has been showing some love towards NT Kwame Geathers lately. I assume as a fallback option in later rounds.

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Rokkstar's picture

April 24, 2013 at 08:01 am

Yep. Agree on all.

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Rokkstar's picture

April 24, 2013 at 07:20 am

I believe it is important for all to ponder GB's potential for picks based on a combination of TT and MM's views on A)needs and weaknesses ascertained from post season and recent GB interviews; B)past draft habits, and C)level of TT interest at combine, pro days, and interviews.

It has been well documented that GB is interested in immediately improving the quality of the running game by way of adding a 3 down back, the left side of the OL in both run and pass protection, and have legitimate concerns over the defenses ability to stop the run.

Yes there are several other positional concerns that haven't been directly addressed by TT/MM, such as the 2014 FA loss potential at WR and TE, but their statements speak volumes; and I fully expect Ted to somehow try to focus on and address both the running game and rush defense in this draft.

One problem is that there is simply not a strong enough OL candidate available late in the 1st Rnd to do so, unless Ted believes in D.J. Flukers' pass protection enough to pull the trigger, which I doubt. Therefore, regardless of the expressed concern, an OT will not be addressed that early; and the G/C positions have no value to TT that high. We will not see an OL taken until 3-5th Rnd whereas Quessenberry has been of high GB interest.

The OT position is not as bleak as most think though. We must remember that Barclay looked decent at RT as a rookie, and could likely handle it even better if Bulaga was moved to LT this year; Newhouse may not be top notch but is also not a complete slouch for depth, or for awaiting the return of Sherrod; and my wild card is Andrew Datko, whom was rated as high as a 1st Rnd draft pick prior to his shoulder injury during 2011. I believe MM's statement re/the left side of the OL could have referred as much to injury recovery and experience as anything.

RB and S will not be addressed in the 1st Rnd. That is simply not TT's style. Besides, there is plenty of talent in later rounds including Christine Michael, whom TT covets based on his actions at the combine, and J.J. Wilcox, whom TT reportedly is showing a lot of interest in.

Reading between the lines, it looks like a DL could be the GB 1st Rnd pick. With Pickett near his career end, and TT/MM preferring to keep Raji at DE, I foresee a large run stopping NT in our future. This suits TT's draft style and Jessie Williams would solidify the rush d. qualities of that line and demand the double-teams necessary to free up Raji, Picket, Neal, Worthy, Jolly, Wilson, Daniels (whew) at DE.

So considering all factors, including TT's interest and draft history, and without further adoo, I present to you my GB Packer 2013 draft selections.

1- NT Jessie Williams
2- RB Christine Michael (TT high interest)
3- TE Travis Kelce (Bye Finley 2014)
4- SS J.J. Wilcox (TT high interest)
5- OL David Quesenberry (TT high interest)
5- WR Kenny Stills (Swopes maybe?)
6- LB Quanteris Smith (injured late 2012)
7- K Dustin Hopkins (Crosby gone?)

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