Green Bay Packers: Initial 7-Round 2022 NFL Mock Draft

The 2022 NFL draft is now just one month away. The draft begins April 28th in Las Vegas. The Green Bay Packers have 11 selections in the draft, which includes four picks in the top 59. With the loss of All-Pro wide receiver Davante Adams, via a trade to the Las Vegas Raiders (which netted pick No. 22 and No. 53 in the draft), the Packers will definitely be looking to upgrade their wide receiver talent and depth.

Right now, the top three receivers on the depth chart for the Packers are Allen Lazard, Randall Cobb and Amari Rodgers. Speaking of Amari, I had the Packers selecting him in the final mock draft I did for the Pack in 2021.

Fortunately for the Packers, the 2022 NFL is very deep at the wide receiver position. That being said, I think the Packers need to load up quickly at wide receiver because there are a lot of teams who are also looking to upgrade at that position. See the Kansas City Chiefs for example.

I see Brian Gutekunst using a similar strategy which was used by Ron Wolf in the 1999 NFL draft. Gutekunst was just in his second year with the Packers than, as he had been hired by Wolf in 1998 and was a scout. In that particular draft, Wolf realized that the Packers needed to get much better in the secondary, especially due to the fact that Randy Moss of the Minnesota Vikings had really lit up the Packers in 1998, with 13 catches for 343 yards and three touchdowns in two games.

Wolf ended up selecting three defensive backs right out the gate in the 1999 draft. Wolf drafted safety Antuan Edwards in Round 1, cornerback Fred Vinson in Round 2 and cornerback Mike McKenzie in Round 3.

I also see Gutekunst using the same modus operandi this year, but at wide receiver.

At the present time, the Packers have seen some of their players from last season stay on the team, while other have left.

The big news was that quarterback Aaron Rodgers would be returning with a four-year contract extension, which also lowered his cap number significantly.

The Packers were also able to lower their cap number by re-doing deals with players like defensive lineman Kenny Clark, left tackle David Bakhtiari, running back Aaron Jones, outside linebacker Preston Smith, safety Adrian Amos and also Cobb.

The Packers were also able to return a couple of key members of their defense, when they signed linebacker De’Vondre Campbell to a new five-year, $50 million contract, as well as cornerback Rasul Douglas to a three-year $21 million deal.

In addition, the Packers were also able to bring back tight end Robert Tonyan, who suffered an ACL injury midway through the 2021 season.

Green Bay also added defensive lineman Jarran Reed via free agency, who was selected in the same draft as Clark, which was the 2016 NFL draft when he was picked by the Seattle Seahawks in Round 2. Reed played five years with the Seahawks and last season played for the Kansas City Chiefs. In his six-year career, Reed has 237 tackles, 24 tackles for a loss, 24.5 sacks, five forced fumbles and three fumble recoveries.

The Packers also added a couple of components to help their beleaguered special teams units, who will now be coached by Rich Bisaccia. The Packers brought on punter Pat O’Donnell to replace Corey Bojorquez. In his eight-year career with da Bears, O’ Donnell has averaged 45.1 yards per punt and has a 39.5 net average, which is pretty good considering the frigid and windy conditions later in the season he had to deal in Chicago. O’Donnell is also considered to be an excellent holder.

The Pack also added cornerback Keisean Nixon from the Raiders, where he was a key member of the special teams units under Bisaccia.

The Packers have also lost a number of players via free agency. Outside linebacker Za’Darius Smith signed with the Minnesota Vikings after he was released by the Packers. Also signing with the Vikes was cornerback Chandon Sullivan.

The Packers also lost two of their wide receivers via the free agency route, as Equanimeous St. Brown signed with the Chicago Bears and Marquez Valdes-Scantling signed with the Chiefs.

The Packers also released offensive lineman Billy Turner, who recently signed with the Denver Broncos, while center/guard Lucas Patrick left to play with da Bears. In addition, linebacker Oren Burks moved on to play with the San Francisco 49ers.

There still will be some other moves made by the Packers prior to the draft. Reportedly, the team is now $15 million under the cap now, which means the team will try and get another free agent or two to come to Green Bay.

But for now, I am doing by initial 7-Round mock draft for the Pack. I recently did a 3-Round mock draft for the Pack, but I have made a couple of changes to that in this full draft for Green Bay.

Packer Nation is hopeful that this upcoming draft will be as fruitful as the 1958 NFL draft was for the Packers, when the team added Pro Football Hall of Famers Jim Taylor, Ray Nitschke and Jerry Kramer. The odds of that are slim, but one never knows.

Those of you who are familiar with my work, know that I have been doing mock drafts for the Packers for 20 years now. And like a blind squirrel, sometimes I can find an acorn, as the Packers actually select the player I projected them to take. It definitely helps that I have been able to utilize the insight and knowledge from NFL scout Chris Landry like I’ve been able to do for several years now.

As you review this mock draft that I have done here, you will note that I have tried to add to the talent on special teams. In the 14 years Rodgers has been the starting quarterback of the Packers, the team has not once been in the top 10 in special teams rankings, while the units have finished dead-last in the NFL four times. That includes being ranked 32nd in 2021 in the annual special team rankings which have been done by Rick Gosselin since the 1980s.

I plan to do a couple more mock drafts as we get closer to the actual draft, but for now without further ado, here is my initial 2022 NFL 7-round mock draft for the Pack.

Round 1: Wide Receiver Treylon Burks (Arkansas)

Height: 6’2″

Weight: 225 pounds

In three years at Arkansas, Treylon Burks caught 146 passes for 2,399 yards and 18 touchdowns. Burks also rushed for 222 yards (5.8 average) in his career as a Razorback.

Burks was named second-team All-SEC by the coaches in 2020, as he caught 51 passes for 820 yards and seven touchdowns.

In 2021, Burks was named first-team All-SEC, as he caught 66 passes for 1,104 yards and 11 touchdowns.

Burks also has experience in retuning both punts and kickoffs for the Razorbacks.

Here is some commentary about Burks from Landry:

Arkansas WR Treylon Burks had the highest grade for 20+ yard receptions. At a grade of 96.9, he was tied with Pitt’s Jordan Addison for the honors. That explosive speed and ability to make big catches is going to entice a lot of teams in the first round.

Burks has seen his stock take a small hit after not testing up to expectations at the combine and at his pro day. Burks offers yards-after-catch ability and explosiveness in the open field.

Round 1: Wide Receiver Jameson Williams (Alabama)

Height: 6’2″

Weight: 188 pounds

Jameson Williams started his collegiate career at Ohio State, who obviously were loaded at the wide receiver position. In two years with the Buckeyes, Williams had 15 receptions for 266 yards and three touchdowns. Williams entered the transfer portal and landed at Alabama in 2021.

Williams had a breakout season with the Crimson Tide, as he caught 79 passes for 1,572 and 15 touchdowns. That led to Williams being named first-team All-SEC and first-team AP All-American. Unfortunately for Williams, he suffered an ACL injury in the national title game against Georgia. Reportedly, the rehab process is going smoothly for Williams.

Williams also is experienced in returning kickoffs, as he returned 10 kicks for the Crimson Tide in 2021 for 352 yards and two touchdowns.

I expect the Packers to select a wide receiver at pick No. 22 in the 1st round. If by chance Williams is still on the board when the Packers make their second 1st round selection at pick No. 28, the Packers need to grab him.

Here is some commentary about Williams from Landry:

Alabama WR Jameson Williams arguably had the best season for any wide receiver in this draft class, dominating for a Crimson Tide team that had lost a plethora of talent at the position the previous two seasons. He was a maven down the field, succeeding in deep ball situations and blazing past defenders in the open field.

Williams wasn’t able to participate in athletic testing, but his rehab is ahead of schedule. Williams is a dynamic playmaker in space with speed to burn. 

Round 2: Wide Receiver Christian Watson (North Dakota State)

Height: 6’4″

Weight: 208 pounds

I know about Watson from his days at Plant High School in Tampa. At North Dakota State, Watson was on three FCS national championship teams. In his career with the Bisons, Watson had 105 receptions for 2,140 yards and 14 touchdowns. As a senior, Watson caught 43 passes for 801 yards and seven scores. Watson also averaged 20.38 yards per reception and 26.38 yards per kickoff return.

Watson was second-team All-Missouri Valley Football Conference in 2019, first-team All-Missouri Valley Football Conference in 2020 and first team All-Missouri Valley Football Conference in 2021. In addition, Watson was named second-team Associated Press FCS All-American in 2021.

Here is some commentary about Watson from Landry:

North Dakota State WR Christian Watson posted an official time of 4.36 in the 40-yard dash at the Combine. Keep in mind that this young man is 6-foot-4, 208 pounds. He also dominated the broad jump. Making the leap from FCS North Dakota State, Watson did not post dominating compiling numbers in college, but he averaged at least 18.3 yards per catch all four years. He’s a Day 2 wild card.

Round 2: Offensive Tackle Max Mitchell (Louisiana)

Height: 6’6″

Weight: 307 pounds

Mitchell was a three-year starter for the Ragin’ Cajuns, which included starting at both left tackle and right tackle. Mitchell was named first-team All-Sun Belt Conference as a junior and first-team All-Sun Belt Conference as a senior.

With the release of right tackle Billy Turner, plus with lingering ACL issues of left tackle David Bakhtiari, the Packers need some quality depth at the offensive tackle position. Yosh Nijman adds to the depth, as he looked solid at left tackle last season for the most part, but adding a player like Mitchell certainly bolsters both the left and right side of the offensive line of the Packers.

Here is some commentary about Mitchell from Landry:

Max Mitchell came into the Senior Bowl needing an ascension, and he worked toward that on Day 1. The Louisiana OT was one of the most eye-catching linemen on either team. Even with his lighter frame, he still levies violent extensions and can finish off-balance opponents. He’s a spry athlete who can latch and redirect opponents’ momentum, and he has a physical edge. Mitchell’s a riser after today.

Round 3: Linebacker Leo Chenal (Wisconsin)

Height: 6’3″

Weight: 250 pounds

Chenal had a great 2021 season for the Badgers. No. 5 had 115 total tackles, 18.5 tackles for a loss, eight sacks and two forced fumbles. That led to Chenal being named AFCA first-team All-American, first-team All-Big Ten and being named Butkus-Fitzgerald Linebacker of the Year in the Big Ten.

Even with the new five-year, $50 million contract for inside linebacker De’Vondre Campbell, the Packers need more depth and talent at the inside linebacker position, plus the team needs to get much better with their special teams units. Chenal will definitely help in both areas.

Here is some commentary about Chenal from Landry:

Wisconsin LB Leo Chenal was impressive in his pro day performance. Wisconsin has had a lot of players show out during the school’s pro day. Chenal had 34 reps of 225 there. That would have landed atop all participants at the combine.

Chenal ran a 4.53 in the 40, had a 40.5″ vertical jump and a 10’8″ broad jump (at the NFL Scouting Combine). It’s been a crazy showing of athleticism today, with the LBs and DLs going off. Chenal is yet another example, and that level of explosion at that size is frightening.

Round 4: Outside Linebacker Tyreke Smith (Ohio State)

Height: 6’3″

Weight: 260 pounds

Tyreke Smith played defensive end for the Buckeyes, but he projects to be an outside linebacker/edge rusher in the NFL. Smith reminds me a bit of Rashan Gary in terms of not having overwhelming stats in college, but one could see the potential possibilities in the NFL. That has played out well for Gary as he has become a force for the Packers.

In four years at Ohio State, Smith had 55. total tackles, 11 tackles for a loss, seven sacks and one forced fumble.

Here is some commentary about Smith from Landry:

Former Ohio State DE Tyreke Smith particularly impressed in one statistical category.
Smith won’t be returning to Ohio State as he announced earlier this offseason he was entering the 2022 NFL Draft. He may have just seven sacks on his college career, but he has impressed in other categories. Smith has more quarterback hits than any other Big Ten defender over the past two seasons (21).

Round 4: Tight End Jake Ferguson (Wisconsin)

Height: 6’5″

Weight: 250 pounds

Jake Ferguson had a very nice career with the Badgers, as he has been a four-year starter. During that time, Ferguson had 145 receptions for 1,618 yards and 13 touchdowns.

In 2021, Ferguson had 46 catches for 450 yards and three touchdowns. That led to Ferguson being named first-team All-Big Ten.

Everyone knows that the running game is the key component of the Wisconsin offense, so the tight end has to be an effective blocker. Ferguson definitely was.

Here is some commentary about Ferguson from Landry at the Senior Bowl practices:

It started off slow, like the practice in general, but Jake Ferguson eventually picked it up. After some balance issues early (falling on his route breaks), Ferguson had a nice grab during team drills that attempted to atone for a few early mistakes.

In the Senior Bowl itself, Ferguson had a very nice game, with three catches for 62 yards and a touchdown.

Round 5: Safety Leon O’Neal (Texas A&M)

Height: 6’0″

Weight: 210 pounds

Safety Leon O’Neal played four years for the Aggies, as he had 161 total tackles, 10 tackles for a loss, one sack, six interceptions (one for a touchdown) and one fumble recovery.

O’Neal was also very solid on special teams for Texas A&M, which is very important aspect in his selection, as the Packers did not make a qualifying offer to safety Henry Black, who was a key member of the special teams units last year for the Pack.

Here is some commentary about O’Neal from Landry:

Texas A&M junior safety Leon O’Neal was impeccable in man coverage in 2021 in the SEC. O’Neal declared for the 2022 NFL Draft back in December and still presents a solid option for teams at the next level looking to bolster their secondary. O’Neal had the highest grade among SEC safeties in man coverage last season (85.2).

Round 7: Linebacker Chance Campbell (Mississippi)

Height: 6’2″

Weight: 235 pounds

Chance Campbell played three years for the Maryland Terrapins before going in the transfer portal and playing for the Mississippi Bulldogs in 2021.

In four years, Campbell had 216 total tackles, 22.5 tackles for a loss, 7.5 sacks, one interception, four fumble recoveries and three forced fumbles.

Like O’Neal, Campbell has the ability to a be a special teams demon.

Here is some commentary about Campbell from Landry:

This guy popped for me at the Shrine Bowl this year and when you watch him play, it is pretty apparent he’s a nifty athlete for the position. I’m not expecting world-shattering numbers, but in an age in which your linebackers have to be able to move effectively, I think Chance Campbell can make a little noise this week as a day-three target.

Round 7: Cornerback Dallis Flowers (Pittsburg State)

Height: 6’2″

Weight: 190 pounds

Cornerback Dallis Flowers has moved around a bit in college, as he started his college career at Robert Morris University, then Tiffin University and also at Grand View before he transferred to Pittsburg State.

At Grand View, Flowers was a two-time NAIA All-America selection as a kick returner and cornerback. At Pittsburg State in 2021, Flowers had 21 tackles, 1.5 tackles for a loss, four interceptions and two kickoff return touchdowns.

Flowers is yet another player in this mock draft who will improve the special teams of the Packers.

Here is some commentary about Flowers from Landry at the East-West Shrine practices:

There were moments of brilliance amid a few ticky-tack pass interference penalties for Dallis Flowers on Monday. He was great at the catch point and made the most of the targets his way. His ability to stick with receivers in coverage really stood out, as he didn’t suffer any bad beats in coverage drills.

Round 7: Running Back/Returner Trestan Ebner (Baylor)

Height: 5’11”

Weight: 210 pounds

Running back Trestan Ebner was able to play in 58 games with Baylor, as he rushed for 1,690 yards and nine touchdowns. Ebner also caught 127 passes for 1,515 yards and 11 more scores.

As a kick returner, Ebner returned 47 kickoffs for the Bears for 1,187 yards (25.3 average) and three touchdowns. Ebner also returned a punt for a touchdown.

As you can tell by Ebner’s track record at Baylor, he will definitely be another asset on special teams for the Packers.

Here is some commentary about Ebner from Landry at the East-West Shrine practices:

Today’s NFL calls for running backs to be able to catch the ball out of the backfield — and that’s exactly what Trestan Ebner showcased on multiple occasions on Monday. In fact, he’s shown it all weekend long. He’s been a reliable pass catcher out of the backfield no matter who was at quarterback. And that’s not even discussing just how sharp he looked with great vision, quick cuts, and explosion through his breaks on the ground.

Green Bay Packers: 6 Round 1 Possibilities at WR in the 2022 NFL Draft

The Green Bay Packers now have two 1st-round selections in the 2022 NFL draft. That is due to the trade of wide receiver Davante Adams to the Las Vegas Raiders, which in turn the Packers received both a 1st round (No. 22) and a 2nd round pick (No. 53).

The Packers also have their own picks in both rounds (picks No. 28 and No. 59), so the team should be able to select some very nice talent early in the draft.

I know that the Packers haven’t drafted a wide receiver in the 1st round since 2002, when the team selected Javon Walker from Florida State, but if there ever was a year to change that trend, 2022 is it.

Both general manager Brian Gutekunst and head coach Matt LaFleur realize that they need to get quarterback Aaron Rodgers some more weapons at wide receiver. Adams is considered one of the best wide receivers in the NFL, if not the best. Replacing him will not be easy.

Fortunately for the Packers, the 2022 NFL draft is a deep one at the wide receiver position. The Packers need to add some talent at the position, because right now Allen Lazard, Randall Cobb and Amari Rodgers are the top three on the depth chart.

The Packers would like to bring back Marques Valdes-Scantling, but he was scheduled to meet with the Kansas City Chiefs on Wednesday. In addition, the Chiefs just traded wide receiver Tyreek Hill to the Miami Dolphins, so they look to be aggressive in trying to sign Valdes-Scantling.

The Packers are still exploring trades and free agency to try and bring in some veteran help at wide receiver. One option might be free agent Jarvis Landry, who reportedly is on the Pack’s radar.

Looking at the 1st round of the 2022 NFL draft, there are six wide receivers who all could be selected on the first night of the draft, which starts on April 28 in Las Vegas.

I am listing those six wide receivers in this piece and NFL scout Chris Landry will add some insightful commentary about those prospects.

I estimate at least one of these wide receivers will be a member of the Packers in 2022.

Garrett Wilson (Ohio State)

Height: 6’0″

Weight: 183 pounds

In three years at Ohio State, Garrett Wilson caught 143 passes for 2,213 yards (15.5 average) and 23 touchdowns.

In 2020, Wilson was named All-Big Ten, as he hauled in 43 passes for 723 yards and six touchdowns. In 2021, Wilson was named second-team All-Big Ten and second-team AP All-American, as he caught 70 passes for 1,058 yards and 12 touchdowns.

Wilson also has experience as a punt returner, as he returned 34 punts for the Buckeyes in his career.

Here is some commentary about Wilson from Landry:

Ohio State WR Garrett Wilson has a chance at being the first WR off the board in the 2022 NFL Draft. There’s no question that Wilson will be coming off the board early in the 2022 NFL Draft, or that he’s considered a Tier 1 wide receiver.

Wilson posted an official time of 4.38 in the 40-yard dash at the Combine. It was a faster time than expected, one that could put the 6-foot-0 wideout in position to leapfrog Arkansas’ Treylon Burks as the draft’s consensus top wideout. Wilson also turned in a 36-inch jump on the vertical. Coming off a 70/1,058/12 junior year in the Big 10, Wilson will be 21 on draft weekend.

Treylon Burks (Arkansas)

Height: 6’2″

Weight: 225 pounds

In three years at Arkansas, Treylon Burks caught 146 passes for 2,399 yards and 18 touchdowns. Burks also rushed for 222 yards (5.8 average) in his career as a Razorback.

Burks was named second-team All-SEC by the coaches in 2020, as he caught 51 passes for 820 yards and seven touchdowns.

In 2021, Burks was named first-team All-SEC, as he caught 66 passes for 1,104 yards and 11 touchdowns.

Burks also has experience in retuning both punts and kickoffs for the Razorbacks.

Here is some commentary about Burks from Landry:

Arkansas WR Treylon Burks had the highest grade for 20+ yard receptions. At a grade of 96.9, he was tied with Pitt’s Jordan Addison for the honors. That explosive speed and ability to make big catches is going to entice a lot of teams in the first round.

Burks has seen his stock take a small hit after not testing up to expectations at the combine and at his pro day. Burks offers yards-after-catch ability and explosiveness in the open field.

Drake London (USC)

Height: 6’4″

Weight: 219 pounds

In three years at USC, Drake London caught 160 passes for 2,153 yards and 15 touchdowns.

In 2020, London was named second-team All-Pac-12 by the coaches, when he caught 33 passes for 502 yards and three scores.

In 2021, London missed the end of the 2021 season with a fractured ankle, but still was named first-team All-Pac-12 and also Offensive Player of the Year in the Pac-12, plus was named third-team AP All-American.

That was due to a breakout year with 88 catches for 1,084 yards and seven touchdowns.

Here is some commentary about London from Landry:

USC WR Drake London is a sizeable target that can play on the outside effectively at the next level and will be highly regarded on most teams’ boards and would fit a need for many teams moving on from veteran receives.

London is the highest-graded wide receiver from USC since 2014. We’ve seen many of the top-graded receivers test their skills at the combine, but London was missing as he recovers from an ankle injury. Most experts are very high on him as they put him as the first receiver taken in the draft.

Chris Olave (Ohio State)

Height: 6’0″

Weight: 187 pounds

In his four-year career with the Buckeyes, Chris Olave had 175 receptions for 2,702 yards and 35 touchdowns. In his sophomore (third-team All-Big Ten), junior (first-team All-Big Ten) and senior (first-team All-Big Ten) seasons, Olave averaged 54 receptions for 835 yards and 10.6 touchdowns per season.

Olave also received second-team Associated Press All-American in 2021, when he caught 65 passes for 936 yards and 13 touchdowns for Ohio State.

Olave also has very limited return experience, as he returned just two punts and one kickoff in his career at Ohio State.

I had the Packers selecting Olave with pick No. 22 in my recent three-round mock draft for the Packers.

Here is some commentary about Olave from Landry:

Ohio State WR Chris Olave had the most touchdowns in single coverage of all wide receivers in the draft. Don’t leave Olave one-on-one or else he’s going to hit pay dirt. He heads into this draft with 24 touchdowns in single coverage, the most among draft-eligible receivers. Olave slated to as a late first round pick, which means he could be put on a good team with an established offense.

Olave ran an unofficial time of 4.26 seconds in the 40-yard dash at the Combine. Sadly, it was later revised down to an official time of 4.39. It is still jaw-dropping, and amongst the fastest times at the position this year. This will undoubtedly prop up the stock of a player who has been somewhat divisive throughout the pre-draft process. Known as a wideout who is capable against single coverage, Olave’s blazing time is a boon for his Day 1 odds.

Jahan Dotson (Penn State)

Height: 5’11”

Weight: 184 pounds

In four years at Penn State, Jahan Dotson caught 183 passes for 2,757 yards and 25 touchdowns.

Dotson was named third-team All-Big Ten by the coaches in 2020, when he caught 52 passes for 884 yards and eight touchdowns.

In 2021, Dotson was named second-team All-Big Ten and third-team AP All-American, as he caught 91 passes for 1,182 yards and 12 touchdowns.

Dotson also has experience as a punt returner, as in his career as a Nittany Lion, he returned 25 for 338 yards (13.5 average) and a score.

Here is some commentary about Dotson from Landry:

Penn State WR Jahan Dotson brings a productive college resume to the league. In four years at Penn State, he totaled 183 receptions for 2,757 yards and 25 touchdowns, while averaging 15.1 yards per reception.

Dotson ran a 4.41 40-yard dash. With Dotson feeling farther and farther away from the group of receivers, he needed a good time in the 40 to pair with good jumps. It’s so important for him because of his playstyle. Dotson thrives in open space with the ball in his hands. His time of 4.41 solidifies the speed that you see on tape and will keep him in the first-round conversation.

Jameson Williams (Alabama)

Height: 6’2″

Weight: 188 pounds

Jameson Williams started his collegiate career at Ohio State, who obviously were loaded at the wide receiver position. In two years with the Buckeyes, Williams had 15 receptions for 266 yards and three touchdowns. Williams entered the transfer portal and landed at Alabama in 2021.

Williams had a breakout season with the Crimson Tide, as he caught 79 passes for 1,572 and 15 touchdowns. That led to Williams being named first-team All-SEC and first-team AP All-American. Unfortunately for Williams, he suffered an ACL injury in the national title game against Georgia. Reportedly, the rehab process is going smoothly for Williams.

Williams also is experienced in returning kickoffs, as he returned 10 kicks for the Crimson Tide in 2021 for 352 yards and two touchdowns.

I expect the Packers to select a wide receiver at pick No. 22 in the 1st round. If by chance Williams is still on the board when the Packers make their second 1st round selection at pick No. 28, I would not be shocked at all if they picked him.

Here is some commentary about Williams from Landry:

Alabama WR Jameson Williams arguably had the best season for any wide receiver in this draft class, dominating for a Crimson Tide team that had lost a plethora of talent at the position the previous two seasons. He was a maven down the field, succeeding in deep ball situations and blazing past defenders in the open field.

Williams wasn’t able to participate in athletic testing, but his rehab is ahead of schedule. Williams is a dynamic playmaker in space with speed to burn. 

Green Bay Packers: 3-Round Mock Draft After the Davante Adams Trade

In wake of the somewhat shocking news yesterday that the Green Bay Packers had traded All-Pro wide receiver Davante Adams to the Las Vegas Raiders for a first-round pick and a second-round pick in the 2022 NFL draft, I thought I would do a three-round mock draft for the Packers, who now definitely need to add some more receiving weapons for NFL MVP Aaron Rodgers. The Packers did put a second-round tender on wide receiver Allen Lazard, plus were able to restructure another deal (which saved $5.5 million on the cap) with wide receiver Randall Cobb, who is one of the best friends of Rodgers.

The trade of Adams frees up $20.2 million in cap space for the Packers, which will allow them to try and re-sign players such as wide receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling and cornerback Rasul Douglas. Also, because the new cap space, the Packers could be looking to add some veteran wide receiver help with someone like free agent Jarvis Landry, who Green Bay is reportedly interested in.

For what it’s worth, the Packers were 7-0 the past three seasons when Adams was unavailable to play.

The bottom line is the Packers now have four selections in the first 59 spots in the 2022 NFL draft and five selections in the top 92. In this mock draft, I’m once again going to utilize the expertise of NFL scout Chris Landry as I put out my Day 1 (First Round) and Day 2 (Second and Third Round) selections.

This is what Landry said about the trade of Adams to the Raiders:

“Aaron Rodgers knew Davante Adams would never play for the Packers again before negotiating his contract. After the shock of the trade started to dissipate, it was understandable to question how Rodgers felt about his best — and arguably only — receiving weapon being traded away, but this report along with others suggests Rodgers has accepted the situation even if he is not okay with it. For Rodgers, the question turns to who he will be throwing to in 2022. Allen Lazard and Randall Cobb are back, and perhaps Marquez Valdes-Scantling will re-sign in the wake of this news. Even so, it would be smart for the Packers to use their newfound first-round pick on one of a talented group of draft-eligible receivers.”

That is precisely what I did in this mock draft, as I definitely will be adding some more weaponry (and speed) for Mr. Rodgers in the passing game.

Round 1: Wide Receiver Chris Olave (Ohio State)

Height: 6’0″

Weight: 187 pounds

In his four-year career with the Buckeyes, Olave had 175 receptions for 2,702 yards and 35 touchdowns. In his sophomore (third-team All-Big Ten), junior (first-team All-Big Ten) and senior (first-team All-Big Ten) seasons, Olave averaged 54 receptions for 835 yards and 10.6 touchdowns per season.

Olave also received second-team Associated Press All-American in 2021, when he caught 65 passes for 936 yards and 13 touchdowns for Ohio State.

Here is some commentary about Olave from Landry:

Ohio State WR Chris Olave had the most touchdowns in single coverage of all wide receivers in the draft. Don’t leave Olave one-on-one or else he’s going to hit pay dirt. He heads into this draft with 24 touchdowns in single coverage, the most among draft-eligible receivers. Olave slated to as a late first round pick, which means he could be put on a good team with an established offense.

Olave ran an unofficial time of 4.26 seconds in the 40-yard dash at the Combine. Sadly, it was later revised down to an official time of 4.39. It is still jaw-dropping, and amongst the fastest times at the position this year. This will undoubtedly prop up the stock of a player who has been somewhat divisive throughout the pre-draft process. Known as a wideout who is capable against single coverage, Olave’s blazing time is a boon for his Day 1 odds.

Round 1: Defensive Lineman Jordan Davis (Georgia)

Height: 6’6″

Weight: 341 pounds

Davis played four years with Georgia and had 90 tackles, 11.5 tackles for a loss and 7.5 sacks. Plus, Davis is huge, powerful and fast, with the ability to stimy the running game for his opponents when they try and run between the tackles.

Adding someone like Davis to put on the defensive line with two-time Pro Bowler Kenny Clark, and the Packers would have a dominant front. The linebacker group of the Packers, which includes De’Vondre Campbell, Rashan Gary and Preston Smith would be very happy with the selection of Davis.

Here is some commentary about Davis from Landry:

Georgia DT Jordan Davis tested as the second-best athlete of all-time per RAS (Relative Athletic Score) and he became the talk of the combine. The concerns about his ability as a pass-rusher are still there, but the athleticism he showed shows that there is hope in developing that part of his game. While he does, Davis is an elite-run defender that can hold two gaps with ease. That gives the back end of the defense more freedom to run complex schemes and blitzes.

Round 2: Wide Receiver Christian Watson (North Dakota State)

Height: 6’4″

Weight: 208 pounds

I know about Watson from his days at Plant High School in Tampa. At North Dakota State, Watson was on three FCS national championship teams. In his career with the Bisons, Watson had 105 receptions for 2,140 yards and 14 touchdowns. As a senior, Watson caught 43 passes for 801 yards and seven scores. Watson also averaged 20.38 yards per reception and 26.38 yards per kickoff return.

Watson was second-team All-Missouri Valley Football Conference in 2019, first-team All-Missouri Valley Football Conference in 2020 and first team All-Missouri Valley Football Conference in 2021. In addition, Watson was named second-team Associated Press FCS All-American in 2021.

Here is some commentary about Watson from Landry:

North Dakota State WR Christian Watson posted an official time of 4.36 in the 40-yard dash at the Combine. Keep in mind that this young man is 6-foot-4, 208 pounds. He also dominated the broad jump. Making the leap from FCS North Dakota State, Watson did not post dominating compiling numbers in college, but he averaged at least 18.3 yards per catch all four years. He’s a Day 2 wild card.

Round 2: Offensive Tackle Max Mitchell (Louisiana)

Height: 6’6″

Weight: 307 pounds

Mitchell was a three-year starter for the Ragin’ Cajuns, which included starting at both left tackle and right tackle. Mitchell was named first-team All-Sun Belt Conference as a junior and first-team All-Sun Belt Conference as a senior.

With the release of right tackle Billy Turner, plus with lingering ACL issues of left tackle David Bakhtiari, the Packers need some quality depth at the offensive tackle position. Yosh Nijman adds to the depth, as he looked solid at left tackle last season for the most part, but adding a player like Mitchell certainly bolsters both the left and right side of the offensive line of the Packers.

Here is some commentary about Mitchell from Landry:

Max Mitchell came into the Senior Bowl needing an ascension, and he worked toward that on Day 1. The Louisiana OT was one of the most eye-catching linemen on either team. Even with his lighter frame, he still levies violent extensions and can finish off-balance opponents. He’s a spry athlete who can latch and redirect opponents’ momentum, and he has a physical edge. Mitchell’s a riser after today.

Round 3: Linebacker Leo Chenal (Wisconsin)

Height: 6’3″

Weight: 250 pounds

Chenal had a great 2021 season for the Badgers. No. 5 had 115 total tackles, 18.5 tackles for a loss, eight sacks and two forced fumbles. That led to Chenal being named AFCA first-team All-American, first-team All-Big Ten and being named Butkus-Fitzgerald Linebacker of the Year in the Big Ten.

Even with the new five-year, $50 million contract for inside linebacker De’Vondre Campbell, the Packers need more depth and talent at the inside linebacker position, plus the team needs to get much better with their special teams units. Chenal will definitely help in both areas.

Here is some commentary about Chenal from Landry:

Wisconsin LB Leo Chenal was impressive in his pro day performance. Wisconsin has had a lot of players show out during the school’s pro day. Chenal had 34 reps of 225 there. That would have landed atop all participants at the combine.

Chenal ran a 4.53 in the 40, had a 40.5″ vertical jump and a 10’8″ broad jump (at the NFL Scouting Combine). It’s been a crazy showing of athleticism today, with the LBs and DLs going off. Chenal is yet another example, and that level of explosion at that size is frightening.

Green Bay is Still the NFL Neighborhood of Mr. Rodgers, Plus Other Salary Cap News for the Pack

Well, the drama is over. Last Tuesday, Aaron Rodgers decided to continue playing with the Green Bay Packers, when he agreed to a four-year contract, reportedly worth $200 million, which would make No. 12 the highest paid player in the NFL.

Those of you who have read my work, know that I wrote that Rodgers would play for the Packers in 2021 when a number of media outlets predicted divorce court for the team and Rodgers right around the 2021 NFL draft, when it was reported that Rodgers and the front office (most notably General Manager Brian Gutekunst) of the Packers were definitely not on the same page. But that split didn’t happen and Rodgers went on to win his second straight NFL MVP award.

In addition, Rodgers and the front office were able to repair a number of the issues in 2021 that were troubling No. 12. Throughout the 2021 season, I predicted that Rodgers would be with the Packers in 2022 and beyond. At the NFL Honors show, shortly after it was announced that safety LeRoy Butler was induced into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, Rodgers learned he won his second straight NFL MVP award. After receiving the award, Rodgers went out of his way to thank a number of people in the front office, including President/CEO Mark Murphy, Executive Vice President/Director of Football Operations Russ Ball and Gutekunst.

Rodgers also spoke glowingly about his head coach.

“I would like to thank Matt LaFleur,” Rodgers said, “and his perfectly groomed eyebrows.”

Rodgers then added this about his coach. “In all seriousness, two out of three years I’ve won this thing, you’re a huge part of this. I love you. I appreciate you. Thanks for trusting me, supporting me, empowering me and making things easy for me.”

Shortly after it was announced that Rodgers and the Packers had agreed on that massive four-year contract, the team also announced that they would use the franchise tag on wide receiver Davante Adams. Because of the tag, the contract of Adams will count $20.1 million against the team’s salary cap.

The bottom line is that the Packers must get below the NFL salary cap figure of $208.2 by March 16, which is now one day away. The Packers got to work on that on Monday, as they first did a contract extension with outside linebacker Preston Smith, which was a four-year, $53.5 million deal that included a $12 million signing bonus. That signing trimmed $8 million off the salary cap of the Packers. Green Bay was able to reduce that number by another $19 million, as they released outside linebacker Za’Darius Smith and offensive tackle Billy Turner (released with a failed physical designation).

There was more news on Monday as well. Adams said that he would not play in 2022 under the tag designation. The good news is that the Packers and Adams have until July 15th to come to an agreement regarding a new contract, which would also lower his cap number.

De’Vondre Campbell

If that wasn’t enough news for the team on Monday, it was also announced that De’Vondre Campbell signed a new five-year, $50 million contract. The first-team All-Pro inside linebacker for the Packers in 2021 will get $16.25 million in the first year of his contract, $21.5 million in the first two years, and $32.25 million in the first three years.

There was also a report yesterday that the Packers were close to re-signing cornerback Rasul Douglas, but nothing has been announced.

Today, a week after Rodgers agreed to his new deal, some of the details of the new contract were announced.

According to NFL Network, Rodgers will be paid $150.6 million guaranteed. The new contract also means that the cap number for Rodgers has been reduced from $46 million down to $28 million.

That means that the Packers are now a little less than $7 million over the cap. The team (see Russ Ball) has been quite busy even before this week, as Green Bay restructured contracts for defensive lineman Kenny Clark, left tackle David Bakhtiari and running back Aaron Jones recently.

In terms of getting under the cap by tomorrow, the Packers could also look to lower the cap figure by restructuring the contracts of cornerback Jaire Alexander and safety Adrian Amos.

There could also be some more moves today, including a cut or two. Some in the media have speculated that the Packers will cut wide receiver Randall Cobb and his $9.5 million cap number in 2022, but I don’t see that happening based on his tight relationship with Rodgers. What I could see happening is having Cobb’s contract restructured and having his cap number lowered.

Mike Garafolo of NFL Media also noted that today the Packers placed a second-round tender (close to a $4 million cap hit) on restricted free agent wide receiver Allen Lazard.

In terms of signing other players in the NFL in free agency, Garafolo tweeted yesterday that the Packers are expected to be in the mix for wide receiver Jarvis Landry, who was released by the Cleveland Browns earlier on Monday.

Also, today it was announced that the Los Angeles Rams are going to be releasing punter Johnny Hekker. That should definitely interest the Packers and their new special teams coach Rich Bisaccia. Hekker is one of the top punters in the NFL and is a four-time first-team All-Pro, who has also been named to four Pro Bowl squads.

Bottom line, expect to see a flurry of activity between now and tomorrow at 4:00 p.m. ET when the 2022 NFL year officially starts.