The 2026 NFL Draft is upon us, and it's time for football analysts to make their final predictions. In this mock draft, we take a look at the Green Bay Packers' strategy, focusing on defensive tackles and cornerbacks. With only three picks in the top 120 and none on day one, the Packers are not expected to double up on a single position early on. However, their pre-draft visits and the team's clear focus areas suggest a potential emphasis on adding multiple players at defensive tackle and cornerback.
The mock draft was conducted using the NFL Mock Draft Database simulator, with a deliberate approach to staying close to the Packers' original selections. Two trades were made in round five, adding two 7th-round picks to the team's haul.
Here's a breakdown of the picks:
- #52: Christen Miller, DT, Georgia - Miller is a versatile athlete who can play any position across the interior of the defensive line, including nose tackle on base downs. His athleticism and Georgia connection make him an attractive pick.
- #84: Davison Igbinosun, CB, Ohio State - Igbinosun has the size and athletic ability the Packers desire, and his sticky coverage skills make him a good fit in any system. He needs to improve his hands and penalties but should compete for a starting job.
- #120: De'Zhaun Stribling, WR, Ole Miss - Stribling is a big-bodied receiver with deep speed and a willingness to block in the run game. His experience with motion and backfield work aligns with the Packers' offense.
- #156: Will Lee III, CB, Texas A&M - Lee is a tall and lean cornerback with a history of visiting the Packers. He should contribute to special teams and depth snaps as a rookie, with potential for a bigger role in future years.
- #160: Billy Schrauth, OL, Notre Dame - Schrauth, a Wisconsin native, is a true guard with a mauling style that fits the Packers' recent interior linemen preferences.
- #201: Kaelon Black, RB, Indiana - Black is a dense running back with an aggressive style and above-average speed. His experience as a receiver out of the backfield adds versatility.
- #229: Jordan Van den Berg, DT, Georgia Tech - Van den Berg, a South African native and Packers fan, has a nonstop motor and excellent athleticism. His locker room presence and Top-30 visitor status make him an intriguing pick.
- #236: George Gumbs, Jr., EDGE, Florida - Gumbs has untapped potential as a pass-rusher, with impressive Combine workout numbers. He could benefit from a quality coach and mentor in an NFL edge room.
- #249: Haynes King, QB, Georgia Tech - King is a dual-threat backup quarterback with a strong running game background. His athletic ability and passing skills make him a potential fit for the Packers' run-oriented offense.
- #255: Fernando Carmona, OL, Arkansas - Carmona is an agile offensive lineman with good shuttle and 3-cone times. His versatility and Senior Bowl participation make him a solid addition to the Packers' offensive line.
