Brian Gutekunst’s Draft Strategy Unveiled—More Picks, More Power!

As the NFL Combine gets underway and the 2025 NFL Draft rapidly approaches in just 58 days, Green Bay Packers General Manager Brian Gutekunst has his eyes set on maximizing the team’s draft capital. With only eight picks currently in hand, Gutekunst’s strategy for the upcoming draft is clear: he wants more picks, more power, and a deeper roster.

A potential game-changer in his approach could come in the form of trading down from the 23rd overall pick. According to a recent mock draft, Gutekunst may look to partner with the Kansas City Chiefs, sending the 23rd pick in exchange for their 31st, 95th, and 132nd picks. This move would allow the Packers to address multiple needs across the roster, particularly on the defensive and offensive lines, while also bolstering their depth for future years.

First Round: Derrick Harmon, DT, Oregon (31st Overall)

With the newly acquired 31st pick, the Packers are expected to go after Derrick Harmon, a dynamic defensive tackle out of Oregon. Harmon, a Michigan State transfer, impressed throughout the season with 11 tackles for loss, five sacks, and 55 pressures. His strength and power make him a disruptive force, capable of bullying offensive linemen and collapsing pockets. Harmon’s ability to control the line of scrimmage would be a welcome addition to a defensive front that has struggled with consistency in recent seasons.

Second Round: Jordan Burch, DL, Oregon (54th Overall)

Adding another key defensive asset, Gutekunst looks to grab Jordan Burch, an explosive defensive lineman from Oregon. Burch’s versatility to line up anywhere along the defensive line, coupled with his violent hand usage and quick first step, makes him a standout player. His physicality and athleticism would provide an immediate boost to the Packers’ pass rush, a unit in desperate need of reinforcements. His potential to develop into a consistent force at the line of scrimmage aligns with the Packers’ long-term defensive goals.

Third Round: Zy Alexander, CB, LSU (87th Overall)

With their third pick in the mock, the Packers grab Zy Alexander, a boundary cornerback from LSU. Alexander’s ability to mirror and match receivers, combined with his length and ball skills, would immediately make him a candidate to compete for a starting role. With four interceptions and 11 pass deflections over the past two seasons, Alexander’s knack for disrupting the passing game would fit well into Green Bay’s defense, giving them a young corner to pair with their existing secondary talent.

Third Round: Emery Jones Jr, OL, LSU (95th Overall)

Rounding out the Packers’ first-day selections, Gutekunst targets offensive line depth with Emery Jones Jr., a versatile lineman from LSU. With 36 career starts at right tackle, Jones possesses the flexibility to play multiple positions along the offensive line. His power and mauling mentality would make him a key contributor, both as a tackle and potentially as a guard. The Packers’ offensive line, often plagued by injuries, could greatly benefit from Jones’ ability to step in and contribute at various spots.

Gutekunst’s Draft Philosophy

Brian Gutekunst’s track record over the past three drafts has seen him select 35 players, but with only eight picks in this year’s draft, he’s eager to expand his options. Moving down from the 23rd pick would allow the Packers to gather more talent, particularly in areas where they need immediate help—pass rush, offensive line depth, and cornerback. With a wealth of talent available on Day 2 and 3 of the draft, Gutekunst has the chance to build out the roster and stockpile assets for the future.

If Gutekunst can strike a deal with the Chiefs or another team looking to move up, expect the Packers to not only add more picks but also power up their roster for the long haul. The 2025 NFL Draft is shaping up to be a pivotal moment for the Packers’ future, and Gutekunst is ready to make his move.