Packers Go Bold: First-Round Corner, Surprise QB & Sack Machine in New Mock Draft!
OPINION: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author's opinion.
The Green Bay Packers are making bold moves in their latest seven-round mock draft, selecting a combination of cornerbacks, pass rushers, and even a surprising quarterback pick. The team, eager to build on its defense while keeping a watchful eye on its future at quarterback, has made some intriguing decisions to address key needs.
Jahdae Barron: A Game-Changing Cornerback
Fresh off a stellar 4.39-second 40-yard dash at the Scouting Combine, Texas cornerback Jahdae Barron is the Packers’ first-round pick in this mock draft. Barron, who earned the Jim Thorpe Award as the nation’s top defensive back in 2024, is known for his fluidity, explosiveness, and intelligence on the field. With five interceptions and 16 passes defensed, Barron has proven to be a top-tier playmaker.
Pro Football Network’s Jacob Infante praised Barron’s versatility, noting his ability to play both inside and outside and even step in as a safety when needed. Barron himself exudes confidence in his ability to handle any role, mentioning his experience in various positions, including dime, corner, safety, and nickel. His catch rate of 54.4% and zero touchdowns allowed in 2024 are proof of his effectiveness in coverage.
A Powerhouse Pass Rush
The Packers’ second and third-round picks are aimed at bolstering their defensive line with two elite pass rushers. Ohio State defensive end J.T. Tuimoloau, who led the Big Ten with 12.5 sacks in 2024, is expected to be a formidable presence alongside Rashan Gary. Tuimoloau’s combination of speed and power makes him a valuable asset for Green Bay’s defense.
In the third round, the Packers add Florida State defensive tackle Joshua Farmer, a player with nine sacks and 15 tackles for loss over his final two seasons at FSU. Farmer’s ability to disrupt plays makes him an ideal fit for Green Bay’s defensive scheme, further strengthening their pass rush.
Day 3 Picks: A Guard, Running Back, Receiver, and a Quarterback
The Packers are making some strategic selections on Day 3, adding a guard in the fourth round, a running back in the fifth, and a receiver in the sixth. However, it’s the quarterback selection in the seventh round that catches attention. Green Bay takes a chance on Taylor Elgersma, a Canadian quarterback from Wilfrid Laurier University.
Elgersma, who led his team to the Vanier Cup national championship and won Canada’s equivalent of the Heisman Trophy, is a fascinating prospect. Scouts have shown interest in his potential, especially his arm strength and size. NFL Network analyst Daniel Jeremiah praised Elgersma’s ball placement, though he noted that his development will require more fine-tuning. Despite his limited experience in American football, Elgersma’s performance at the Senior Bowl, where he competed for the first time in 11-on-11 football, has scouts excited about his future.
Quarterback Depth: A Long-Term Play?
With Jordan Love at the helm for 2025 and backup Malik Willis impressing, the Packers’ quarterback room may seem secure. However, general manager Brian Gutekunst has not ruled out the possibility of adding another quarterback, particularly given the critical importance of the position. While the Packers have avoided carrying three quarterbacks on the active roster in recent years, Gutekunst has expressed openness to the idea if the right candidate is available.
The Packers’ decision to take a flyer on a quarterback like Elgersma shows they are keeping their options open for the future, ensuring they have a solid backup plan in place should the need arise.
Looking Ahead
The Packers’ bold mock draft demonstrates their commitment to strengthening both their defense and their long-term outlook at quarterback. By securing Barron, Tuimoloau, and Farmer, Green Bay is set to dominate on defense. Meanwhile, the selection of Elgersma signals that the team is planning for the future, making this draft a potentially game-changing one for the Packers.
Fans can expect an exciting season ahead as Green Bay continues to build a team that blends immediate impact with long-term potential.