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5 players Packers should draft in the first round

By Rucker Haringey

Chris Olave #2 of the Ohio State Buckeyes celebrates a first half touchdown catch against the Michigan State Spartans with Luke Wypler #53 of the Ohio State Buckeyes at Ohio Stadium on November 20, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)
Chris Olave #2 of the Ohio State Buckeyes celebrates a first half touchdown catch against the Michigan State Spartans with Luke Wypler #53 of the Ohio State Buckeyes at Ohio Stadium on November 20, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) /
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Packers mock draft, George Pickens
INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA – JANUARY 10: George Pickens #1 of the Georgia Bulldogs catches a 55 yard pass in the first quarter of the game against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the 2022 CFP National Championship Game at Lucas Oil Stadium on January 10, 2022 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images) /

3. George Pickens

Pickens isn’t generating a lot of Round 1 buzz at the moment, but that could change as the draft approaches. Outside receivers with his speed and large catch radius have a way of catching the attention of NFL offensive coordinators.

There are legitimate concerns about Pickens’ lack of strength. He has a very thin frame and he wasn’t overly durable for Georgia during his collegiate career. If the Packers take him in the first round it will send a clear signal that they believe he can add good weight and functional strength in the preseason.

Pickens’ fluidity as a downfield route-runner really stands out from his film. He suffers a little bit from making everything look too easy on the field. The former Georgia star is one of those guys who manages to generate serious separation without ever looking like he’s running at full speed.

Some talent evaluators might view taking Pickens at No. 28 as too big of a reach for the Packers, but he does have a chance to blossom into a legitimate No. 1 outside receiver at the next level. If he runs a blistering 40-yard dash before the draft he could see his stock skyrocket. Green Bay will scout him heavily over the next few weeks.

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