Green Bay Packers: 3 players to target in the 2021 NFL Draft

Najee Harris, Alabama Crimson Tide. (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images)
Najee Harris, Alabama Crimson Tide. (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images) /
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Green Bay Packers mock draft, Rashod Bateman
Credit: Hannah Foslien/Getty Images /

Golden Gophers . Rashod Bateman. 31. player. 852. . Wide receiver

The Packers would be very fortunate if Bateman falls all the way down to them at No. 31. There’s a solid chance he goes much higher if his workouts go well. They might be required to trade up if they truly want to secure the talented wide receiver’s draft rights.

He’s an ideal fit for what Green Bay likes to do on the field. He isn’t a true burner, but he possesses above-average speed that plays well on the outside and in the slot. More importantly, he’s an exceptional route-runner that knows how to use his quickness to create separation.

Separation is a luxury that Rodgers doesn’t often require. Bateman could step right in as an immediate starter opposite Adams for Green Bay’s offense. It might take him a few weeks to adjust to the rigors of playing in the NFL, but he’s got a legitimate chance to be a high-level starter right away due to his combination of athleticism and polish.

His sophomore season at Minnesota where he averaged over 20 yards per catch is the tape the Packers should spend the most time evaluating. He’s not a player that can be maintained with single coverage. Bateman can stretch the field in a way that would make stopping both him and Adams at the same time virtually impossible. That makes him an exceptional value for Green Bay towards the end of Round 1.