2018 NFL Mock Draft: Giants land Sam Darnold

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BRONX, NY – DECEMBER 27: Iowa Hawkeyes defensive back Joshua Jackson (15) intercepts a pass during the New Era Pinstripe Bowl on December 27, 2017, between the Boston College Eagles and the Iowa Hawkeyes at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, NY. (Photo by Rich Graessle/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

Iowa. Josh Jackson. 14. player. 49. . Defensive Back

Had Aaron Rodgers not broken his collarbone early in the 2017 NFL season, the Green Bay Packers would likely be picking much later in round one. The Packers got off to a hot start, and looked like they would get a chance to avenge their loss in the NFC title game the year before. However, even Rodgers making a comeback late in the year could not help them, as they failed to make the playoffs.

During that NFC title game a year ago, the Packers were thrashed by the passing of Matt Ryan of the Atlanta Falcons. In 2017, the defensive secondary struggled mightily again, and it will definitely be an area that the team needs to address this offseason. One player they could think about drafting is Josh Jackson from Iowa, who led the FBS in interceptions this season, capping his season with a pick in the Pinstripe Bowl.

Jackson is a fantastic talent, and had the luxury of learning behind Desmond King for most of his time with the Hawkeyes. The Packers need to bring in a couple of people to help in the secondary this offseason, but drafting Jackson would be one heck of a start. He has tremendous hands for a cornerback, and his ability to make up ground after mistakes will really make him a shut-down cornerback at the next level.

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