Well, in Round 1 of the 2022 NFL draft, the Green Bay Packers did not come away with any wide receiving help for quarterback Aaron Rodgers. But No. 12 appeared to be okay with that, as he discussed what occurred in Round 1 with Pat McAfee.
“I’ve had a little insight,” Rodgers told McAfee. “I’ve been talking with them (Brian Gutekunst and Matt LaFleur) throughout the night. I know they really liked (Devonte) Wyatt early on and were wondering if he was going to be there at either pick, I believe. When the linebacker (Quay Walker) was there in the 20s and all six of those receivers, I believe it was six, who they had first-round grades on were gone … I think it was pretty obvious that they wanted to shore up those two spots (on defense) in their mind, which was another inside backer besides Dre (De’Vondre Campbell) and a defensive lineman to be in the rotation with Kenny Clark and Dean Lowry and (TJ) Slaton.”
I wrote a piece about both Walker and Wyatt last night, as NFL scout Chris Landy gave his take on both of the defensive stalwarts who played with the national champion Georgia Bulldogs.
Tonight, in Round 2 and Round 3, I definitely expect the Packers to add a receiver or two. One possibility is George Pickens of Georgia, who I had the Packers taking the 2nd round in my final 7-round mock draft. In my initial mock draft, I had the Packers taking Christian Watson of North Dakota State in Round 2.
We shall see what happens tonight, but I added three more possible additions at wide receiver. They are David Bell of Purdue, Alec Pierce of Cincinnati and Romeo Doubs of Nevada.
Based on Landry’s wide receiver draft board, Pickens, Watson and Bell look to be selected in Round 2, while Pierce and Doubs could be Round 3 selections.
Bottom line, expect to see at least one wide receiver taken tonight by the Packers. Perhaps two. In terms of Pickens, Watson, Bell, Pierce and Doubs, please see the scouting report on each of them from Landry.
George Pickens (Georgia)
Height: 6’3″
Weight: 200 pounds
Here is Landry’s scouting report on Pickens:
George Pickens came to Georgia as a five-star prospect from Hoover High School. He immediately made an impact his freshman year for the Bulldogs where he compiled 49 REC for 727 YDS and 8 TDS, including 12 REC for 175 YDS and 1 TD against Baylor in the Sugar Bowl. His sophomore year, Pickens had a solid year where he recorded 36 REC for 513 YDS and 6 TDS, including 7 REC for 135 YDS and 1 TD in the Peach Bowl against Cincinnati. Prior to the 2021 season, Pickens tore his ACL on the fourth day of spring practice, which resulted in him only playing in four games for Georgia where he had 5 REC for 107 YDS. Pickens is a WR3 with WR2 upside who wins with his above the line body control, ability to make contested catches at the high point, and outstanding straight-line speed. Pickens will need to improve in his short-to-intermediate route running along with getting bigger and stronger to be able to not get pushed around as easily by more physical cornerbacks in order to reach his full potential.
Christian Watson (North Dakota State)
Height: 6’4″
Weight: 208 pounds
Here is Landry’s scouting report on Watson:
RS Senior who has started 33 of 52 career games, including all 12 in 2021. Two-star HS prospect at 6’2, 175 as a two-year letterman with NFL father and brother in FBS. Redshirted as a freshman. Immediately became a rotational receiver and worked into frequent starts as a RS sophomore and being named to All-MVC second team for championship-winning team. First-team All-American KR in 2020 and First-Team All-MVC WR, followed by 2021 second-team All-American WR and KR, reportedly reaching 23 mph in-game. Under OC Tyler Roehl (third season) and WRs Coach Noah Pauley (third season), player is a chess piece in a run-first traditional offense, primarily as the outside WR but also taking snaps (and carries) as a RB, a slot WR, and at multiple spots in Bunch. Lacks standout statistics due to scheme & decision-making of QB. Starting outside WR you can win because of in a spread or timing-based offense. Elite size/speed receiver who separates with IQ and speed, flashing high-level ball skills to reel in and motor to do the dirty work. Shows traits and experience to be above-average KR.
David Bell (Purdue)
Height: 6’1″
Weight: 210 pounds
Here is Landry’s scouting report on Bell:
David Bell came into Purdue as a four-star recruit from Warren Central High School. He started in every single game during his career, with the exception of this past year where he decided to not participate in Purdue’s bowl game against Tennessee. Immediately, Bell’s impact was felt as he stepped up when Rondale Moore got hurt in 2019 and recorded 86 REC for 1,035 YDS and 7 TDS. These numbers helped Bell to be named the Big Ten Freshman of the Year and an AP Freshman All-American for the 2019 season. Despite a COVID-19 shortened season, Bell was still able to compile 53 REC for 625 YDS and 8 TDS in just six games, earning himself First Team All-Big Ten honors. 2021 was arguably Bell’s best as a Boilermaker as he set career-highs in receptions (93), receiving yards (1,286), and yards per catch (13.8). He was named a First-Team All-American, a First-Team All-Big Ten receiver, and he was awarded the Richter-Howard Award for the best receiver in the Big Ten. Bell is a WR2/SLOT who wins with his outstanding body control, above the line route running, and his ability to break leg tackles in the open field. He has a chance to elevate himself if he becomes more proficient in the slot and is able to improve his release off of the LOS (line of scrimmage).
Alec Pierce (Cincinnati)
Height: 6’3″
Weight: 210 pounds
Here is Landry’s scouting report on Pierce:
Alec Pierce was a special teams contributor before earning a starting receiver spot as a sophomore. He operates primarily as an outside receiver and fits well in that spot at the next level as well. He became an impact contributor this past season as he was the go-to big-play threat for the Bearcats offense. He puts together a combination of above the line size , speed, and ball skills, that help him be an outstanding threat over the top. He lacks the short area-agility to be a dynamic route runner, as he will probably be a limited route tree guy at the next level. That said, he is very effective at what he does best, stretching the defense and rising up the make catches, as a deep and intermediate threat. He projects best as a complementary starting outside receiver, who can contribute on special teams if he does not see offensive field time right away.
Romeo Doubs (Nevada)
Height: 6’2″
Weight: 200 pounds
Here is Landry’s scouting report on Doubs:
Doubs has been one of the most productive players in all of college football over the past two seasons and has been Nevada’s best weapon since he arrived as a freshman. He is an explosive athlete with deep speed and a sudden burst out of his cuts. He was able to create separation due to his ability to stretch the defense but should continue to develop his route tree. He is dangerous with the ball in his hands and can be used in a number of different alignments. He has room to grow in his game but projects best an outside receiver with slot versatility at the next level. He will contribute immediately on special teams and has the upside to quickly be a high-level complementary option as a WR2 or 3.
In the 2022 NFL draft in Round 1, the Green Bay Packers did not draft a wide receiver, as there was an early run on the top six receivers in the draft. So general manager Brian Gutekunst and head coach Matt LaFleur went with another theme in the draft. A championship theme, as the Packers selected two players from the Georgia Bulldogs, who just happened to win the national title in college football in 2021.
The Packers selected two of the better defensive players in the 2022 NFL draft when they selected linebacker Quay Walker of the Bulldogs with pick No. 22 and then the Pack picked another Georgia stalwart at pick No. 28, when they selected defensive lineman Devonte Wyatt. Defensive coordinator Joe Barry of the Packers has to be extremely happy.
The Packers have two picks in Round 2 and one in Round 3 tomorrow night, as the team tries to find some more receiving weapons for quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
Here is the scouting report on each of the players taken tonight by the Pack from NFL scout Chris Landry, as well as his take on their actual selection by Green Bay.
Quay Walker
Height: 6’4″
Weight: 240 pounds
Here is Landry’s scouting report on Walker:
Quay Walker is a Senior who appeared in 51 of 52 possible games in his four seasons at Georgia, starting 17 of them. Was a major contributor on special teams in all four seasons. Aligned almost exclusively in the box for Georgia’s hybrid defense, and only occasionally bumped out to the slot for coverage purposes. Finished the 2021 season tied for third on the team in tackles. Projects as a scheme versatile off-ball backer that you can win with, who can contribute on all three downs in several ways. Will be an immediate special teams impact player while he competes for an early career starting spot and improves his technique and refines his instincts to get to most out of his physical tools.
Here is Landry’s take on the Packers selecting Walker with pick No. 22:
Instant Analysis: Walker is a rangy and athletic LB who can sniff out ball carriers from sideline-to-sideline. He is a consistent tackler and has the ability to contribute on all three downs in a number of ways. He has the makings of a solid starter at the next level and provides excellent versatility.
Devonte Wyatt
Height: 6’3″
Weight: 304 pounds
Here is Landry’s scouting report on Wyatt:
5th-year, COVID SR who has started 25 of 49 games, including 14 of 14 in 2021. 4-star HS prospect who originally signed with Georgia out of HS before, instead, going to Hutchinson CC (KS) for a year before coming back to Georgia and signing out of JUCO a year afterwards. DNS for Georgia (after coming in 2018) until the Sugar Bowl in 2019. Even without being a regular starter on the DL in 2019, he still led the interior DL in tackles (30). Did not relinquish his starting role after that game, as he started every other game that he played in college (24/24 games). Highly decorated player in 2021, with a Coach’s All-SEC 1st Team, AP All-SEC 2nd Team, and National Championship to boot. Senior Bowl attendee.
Here is Landry’s take on the Packers selecting Wyatt with pick No. 28:
Instant Analysis: Devonte Wyatt is an explosive athlete who had the most production among the elite Georgia defensive linemen in this draft class. While his advanced age (24 years old) gives him a lower ceiling than some of his peers in this class, his floor is high and he has the best bend of any defensive lineman in the class in our eyes.
Well, we are now two nights away from the 2022 NFL draft. I’ve been doing mock drafts for the Green Bay Packers for 20 years now and like a blindfolded dart-thrower, I have sometimes hit the bullseye when it comes to predicting players who the Packers actually select. We shall see if this happens again in 2022.
Like I have done for several years now, I will be utilizing the insight from NFL scout Chris Landry as I put together this draft. I will be using the Horizontal Draft Board (the best player regardless of position) that Chris puts together each draft to help me make my picks.
Landry will add some commentary regarding all the players I will be selecting in this mock draft.
The Packers enter this draft knowing that they need to fortify the wide receiver position for quarterback Aaron Rodgers, as right now his depth chart at that position has Allen Lazard, Randall Cobb, Amari Rodgers and Sammy Watkins at the top four spots. Not exactly a fearsome foursome to be sure.
Both general manager Brian Gutekunst and head coach Matt LaFleur know that they need to add talent to the team in a number of different areas, but no position needs more attention than that of the wide receiver position.
In terms of finding someone who can help No. 12, Gutekunst talked about that situation Monday.
“We’ve got a good quarterback so that certainly helps,” said Gutekunst said. “There’ll be more opportunities for that player.”
Gutenkunst sees an extensive wide receiver group in this draft, which he also talked about in his comments.
“The last few [classes of wide receivers] have been pretty deep, and I think this one is another one.”
In this draft, besides the wide receiver position, I also see the team focusing on players who can help improve the special teams units under new coordinator Rich Bisaccia.
In a perfect world, Packer Nation would love to see a similar draft for the Packers this year like they had in 1958 NFL draft, when they selected three players (Jim Taylor, Ray Nitschke and Jerry Kramer) who would later get inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Finally, as we look back on the history of the Packers drafting with Gutekunst as GM, look for the Packers to trade up or trade down in Round 1, as the Packers have done that in three of the four years since Gutekunst took over for Ted Thompson as GM.
Without further ado, here is my final 7-round mock draft for the Pack in 2022, without any trades.
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.
The Packers met with Olave at the 2022 NFL Combine.
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.
Trevor Penning is perfect for the zone-blocking scheme that the Packers use, and although he is better suited for left tackle, he may end up at right tackle, at least in the beginning of his NFL career, especially if David Bakhtiari can resume his All-Pro status on the left side of the offensive line of the Packers.
Penning was a three-year starter at left tackle for Northern Iowa, plus played one game each at right tackle and also right guard. The Packers absolutely love versatility when it comes to offensive linemen who can play multiple positions.
In 2020, Penning was named as an honorable mention All-Missouri Valley Football Conference for the Panthers and in 2021 was given first-team All-Missouri Valley Football Conference recognition and was named a finalist for the Walter Payton Award as the top player at the FCS level.
In Green Bay, Penning would most likely be the starting right tackle for the Packers, with Yosh Nijman being the swing tackle behind Bakhtiari and the rookie from Northern Iowa.
Here is Landry’s scouting report on Penning entering the 2022 NFL draft:
TrevorPenning projects as a 1st year starter at left tackle in his rookie year. He would excel in an offense that would optimize his agility in a zone blocking scheme and use him on vertical sets on deep pass concepts. Overall, Penning is a taller tackle with nimble feet for his height who needs to work on his knee bend and drive in the run game. He is extremely powerful at the point of attack and gets consistent vertical movement in the run game. However, due to his size and inability to bend extremely well, leverage issues are of slight concern against smaller edge defenders. He struggles at times with the hard inside move by quicker defenders. Although he is a good athlete overall, when he has to move laterally, he has shown instances of struggling. He doesn’t bend exceptionally well, which results in him bending at the waist at times. When his posture isn’t good, it affects his balance while in his pass set. However, he has a powerful punch and is virtually impossible to bull rush. He demonstrates very good length and range and could suffice in the NFL at left tackle. However, he may be a better fit on the right side.
Round 2: Wide Receiver George Pickens (Georgia)
Height: 6’3″
Weight: 200 pounds
In his career with the Bulldogs, George Pickens had 90 receptions for 1,347 yards and 14 touchdowns.
In 2019, Pickens caught 49 passes for 727 yards and eight touchdowns. That performance led to Pickens being named to the SEC All-Freshman Team. In 2020, with four fewer games, Pickens caught 36 passes for 513 yards and six touchdowns.
Unfortunately for Pickens, he tore his ACL in spring practice before the 2021 season. But Pickens did come back to play for the Bulldogs late in the season, as he caught five passes for 107 yards. Pickens also caught a 52-yard bomb in the 2022 College Football Playoff National Championship against Alabama, as the Georgia won the national title by a score of 33-18.
Pickens ran a 4.47 in the 40 at the NFL Scouting Combine.
The Packers also had Pickens in for a pre-draft top 30 visit last week.
Here is some commentary about Pickens from Landry:
Georgia WR George Pickens feels like a throwback receiver. He is a true deep threat that excels using his size to snag the ball in contested catch situations. His route tree needs some development, but the effort and dynamic ability to come down with the football is something that teams will want to take advantage of. If Pickens can develop in those areas, he can be a true WR1.
Pickens spent most of the year recovering from a torn ACL. Go look at him before the injury and even the highlight catch he made in the National Championship and you see he’s a dynamic playmaker. Pickens is similar to Tyrell Williams for his ability to be a deep threat. He’s a dynamic runner but has great hands and he’s exactly what Aaron Rodgers needs.
Round 2: Outside Linebacker Drake Jackson (USC)
Height: 6’4″
Weight: 265 pounds
In his career at USC, Drake Jackson had 103 total tackles, 25 tackles for a loss, 12.5 sacks, two interceptions, two forced fumbles and one fumble recovery.
In 2019, Jackson was named as a Freshman All-American, as he had 11.5 tackles for loss and 5.5 sacks. Jackson was named second-team All-Pac-12 in both 2020 and 2021 at linebacker.
Jackson did not run the 40 at either the NFL Scouting Combine or the USC Pro Day, but has reportedly been timed at 4.50. That speed and agility is apparent when watching tape of the former Trojan. Jackson did have a vertical leap of 36.5 inches at the Combine.
The Packers need to add some quality depth at outside linebacker behind Preston Smith and Rashan Gary and Jackson would be a nice add-on.
Here is some commentary about Jackson from Landry:
Drake Jackson is a JR at USC, who has started 28 of 28 career games. He’s a former 4-star prospect and was an All-American senior year. Jackson’s best attribute is his ability to bend. He does a lot of things well, but nothing outstanding. He has a high floor and should be able to see time early on in his career. He fits best as a 3-4 OLB and can also play with his hand in the dirt. He projects as a rotational player in year one and has low-end starter upside down the line.
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.
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: 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.
Ferguson also had a visit with the Packers back earlier this month.
The Packers need some quality depth at the tight end position. Robert Tonyan won’t be able to play until the middle of the 2022 season due to an ACL injury. Marcedes Lewis isn’t getting any younger at the age of 37. Josiah Deguara showed flashes last year at times, but needs to be more consistent.
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 4: 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.
I see O’Neal as the key backup at the safety position behind Adrian Amos and Darnell Savage.
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 5: Defensive Lineman Neil Farrell Jr. (LSU)
Height: 6’4″
Weight: 330 pounds
Neil Farrell played in 48 games in his career at LSU and played a big role on the defensive line when the Tigers won the 2019 National Championship.
In his career at LSU, Farrell had 143 tackles, 22 tackles for a loss and 7.5 sacks.
In Green Bay, he would join a defensive front that includes Kenny Clark, Dean Lowry, Jarran Reed and T.J. Slaton.
This is what Landry said about the former LSU Tiger at the Senior Bowl:
For a nose tackle, Neil Farrell Jr. did what was asked of him on Tuesday. He showcased above-average initial burst for his size, as well as some power in straight-line rushing situations. Beyond that, Farrell can also stand his ground in the middle and run with blocks. He wasn’t overly disruptive, but the most important thing for nose tackles is to maintain leverage and keep spaces tight. Farrell did that, at the very least.
In four years at Michigan State, Jalen Nailor had 86 receptions for 1,454 yards and 12 touchdowns. In his senior year in 2021, Nailor had 37 catches for 695 yards and six scores.
Nailor came to the Spartans as an all-state football player and state-champion sprinter from talent-rich Bishop Gorman High School in Las Vegas.
If the Packers select Nailor, his first opportunity to impress the coaches will be on special teams, both as a returner and a gunner.
Here is the scouting report Landry has put out on Nailor:
Michigan State wide receiver Jalen Nailor has served as the Spartans’ big-play extraordinaire in the passing game over the past two seasons and leaves East Lansing with nearly a 17.0 yards per catch average throughout the course of his four seasons as a contributor on game days. Nailor is a speedy athlete who offers gracefully acceleration skills in the open field—he won frequently with double moves and vertical routes downfield. Those opportunities were supplemented with some manufactured touches, such as end-arounds and opportunities in the kicking game to return kicks. You can see Nailor’s high school track background on the gridiron; he won four state titles during his senior year at Bishop Gorman in Nevada. Projecting Nailor to the NFL, I think he stands a firm chance to be a depth receiver in the passing game and serve as a primary kick returner for his next team.
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.
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.
We are now officially two weeks away from the 2022 NFL draft in Las Vegas. Today, I’m doing my second 3-round mock draft for the Packers. I did my first 3-round mock draft for the Pack shortly after the Davante Adams trade was announced.
In this 3-round mock draft for the Packers, only one player will remain the same compared to the first 3-round mock draft I did.
I will also be doing another 7-round mock draft for Green Bay before the draft. I did my first 7-round mock draft for the Pack in late March.
As I have done with all of my draft work, I am utilizing the expertise and talents of NFL scout Chris Landry, as he will add commentary about all of the players who I have the Packers selecting.
In this 3-round mock draft, I still see the Packers focusing on the wide receiver position, even with the signing today of veteran Sammy Watkins. The former Clemson star now joins the depth chart at the receiver position which is headed by Allen Lazard, Randall Cobb and Amari Rodgers.
That foursome is not exactly fearsome, as general manager Brian Gutekunst and head coach Matt LaFleur will look to add some more weaponry for Aaron Rodgers in the upcoming draft.
The 6’1″, 211-pound Watkins ran a 4.43 in the 40 at the 2014 NFL Scouting Combine and was the 4th overall pick of the 2014 NFL draft by the Buffalo Bills, but he has not reached the outstanding upside that was expected of him when he was drafted.
The two best years that Watkins had were his first two years in Buffalo, when he had 125 combined receptions for 2,029 yards and 15 touchdowns. Since then, in six additional seasons, playing for the Bills, the Los Angeles Rams, the Kansas City Chiefs and the Baltimore Ravens, Watkins has had 223 combined catches (an average of 37 receptions per year) for 3,030 yards and 19 touchdowns.
Injuries have also been an issue for Watkins, as he has missed 30 games in his eight-year NFL career.
Watkins is familiar with the offense that the Packers run because when he was with the Rams in 2017, LaFleur was offensive coordinator. That particular season, Watkins had 39 receptions for 593 yards and eight touchdowns.
Maybe something will click for Watkins in Green Bay with Rodgers as his quarterback. That being said, Watkins did not exactly set the world on fire in Kansas City with Patrick Mahomes as his QB.
Looking at the other receivers for the Packers at the top of the depth chart, Lazard is a very solid possession receiver, who is also an outstanding blocker. Cobb still shows occasional flashes, but is nearing the end of his NFL career. Rodgers struggled as a rookie, both in learning the offense and also in returning punts at times.
That is why I still have the Packers going heavy at the receiver position in this 3-round mock draft, not only in adding exceptional talent, but also in adding great speed.
Without further ado, here is my latest 3-round mock draft for the Pack.
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.
The Packers interviewed Williams at the NFL Scouting Combine.
Williams most likely won’t play for the Packers until late in the 2022 season, but his upside is just tremendous.
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 1: 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.
With Williams not being available to play for the Packers until late in the 2022 season, the team needs to add some immediate help at the wide receiver position. Dotson will provide that.
At the Penn State Pro Day, both Gutekunst and wide receivers coach Jason Vrable were in attendance to see Dotson. Vrable met with Dotson as a matter of fact and said, “Went really well. Just talking ball, getting to know me, getting to know him.”
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.
Round 2: Wide Receiver George Pickens (Georgia)
Height: 6’3″
Weight: 200 pounds
In his career with the Bulldogs, George Pickens had 90 receptions for 1,347 yards and 14 touchdowns.
In 2019, Pickens caught 49 passes for 727 yards and eight touchdowns. That performance led to Pickens being named to the SEC All-Freshman Team. In 2020, with four fewer games, Pickens caught 36 passes for 513 yards and six touchdowns.
Unfortunately for Pickens, he tore his ACL in spring practice before the 2021 season. But Pickens did come back to play for the Bulldogs late in the season, as he caught five passes for 107 yards. Pickens also caught a 52-yard bomb in the 2022 College Football Playoff National Championship against Alabama, as the Georgia won the national title by a score of 33-18.
Pickens ran a 4.47 in the 40 at the NFL Scouting Combine.
The Packers also had Pickens in for a pre-draft top 30 visit last week.
Here is some commentary about Pickens from Landry:
Georgia WR George Pickens feels like a throwback receiver. He is a true deep threat that excels using his size to snag the ball in contested catch situations. His route tree needs some development, but the effort and dynamic ability to come down with the football is something that teams will want to take advantage of. If Pickens can develop in those areas, he can be a true WR1.
Pickens spent most of the year recovering from a torn ACL. Go look at him before the injury and even the highlight catch he made in the National Championship and you see he’s a dynamic playmaker. Pickens is similar to Tyrell Williams for his ability to be a deep threat. He’s a dynamic runner but has great hands and he’s exactly what Aaron Rodgers needs.
Round 2: Outside Linebacker Drake Jackson (USC)
Height: 6’4″
Weight: 265 pounds
In his career at USC, Drake Jackson had 103 total tackles, 25 tackles for a loss, 12.5 sacks, two interceptions, two forced fumbles and one fumble recovery.
In 2019, Jackson was named as a Freshman All-American, as he had 11.5 tackles for loss and 5.5 sacks. Jackson was named second-team All-Pac-12 in both 2020 and 2021 at linebacker.
Jackson did not run the 40 at either the NFL Scouting Combine or the USC Pro Day, but has reportedly been timed at 4.50. That speed and agility is apparent when watching tape of the former Trojan. Jackson did have a vertical leap of 36.5 inches at the Combine.
The Packers need to add some quality depth at outside linebacker behind Preston Smith and Rashan Gary and Jackson would be a nice add-on.
Here is some commentary about Jackson from Landry:
Drake Jackson is a JR at USC, who has started 28 of 28 career games. He’s a former 4-star prospect and was an All-American senior year. Jackson’s best attribute is his ability to bend. He does a lot of things well, but nothing outstanding. He has a high floor and should be able to see time early on in his career. He fits best as a 3-4 OLB and can also play with his hand in the dirt. He projects as a rotational player in year one and has low-end starter upside down the line.
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.
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.
We are now 26 days away from the 2022 NFL draft. The Green Bay Packers will definitely be focusing on the wide receiver class in this draft for four reasons.
For one, the Packers traded one of the best wide receivers in the NFL, All-Pro Davante Adams, to the Las Vegas Raiders for two picks (Round 1 & Round 2) in the 2022 NFL draft.
Secondly, the Packers also lost a couple of wide receivers (Marquez Valdes-Scantling and Equanimeous St. Brown) in free agency.
Not to mention that the top three at the depth chart at wide receiver for the Packers reads like this…
Allen Lazard
Randall Cobb
Amari Rodgers
Finally, the 2022 draft is the deepest draft in several years regarding the wide receiver position.
General manager Brian Gutekunst and head coach Matt LaFleur know that the Packers need to add some more weaponry for 4-time MVP Aaron Rodgers to utilize. The draft is certainly one way to do that. Especially this draft.
Yes, there are other ways, like adding a veteran receiver through free agency (see Jarvis Landry, Will Fuller or Julio Jones) or adding one via the trade route (see DK Metcalf). I think there is a decent probability that could happen with the Packers, as the team is now approximately $15 million under the cap. We shall see.
But in terms of what will occur starting on April 28, I have already done a number of stories about this upcoming draft. One was a 3-round mock draft in which I had the Packers selecting wide receiver Chris Olave (Ohio State) with pick No. 22 and wide receiver Christian Watson (North Dakota State) with pick No. 53.
Plus, I recently put out a 7-round mock draft in which I had the Packers selecting Treylon Burks (Arkansas) with pick No. 22 and Jameson Williams (Alabama) with pick No. 28. In this mock draft, I still had the Packers taking Watson with pick No. 53.
I also put out a piece in which I listed six wide receivers who the Packers might be able to select in Round 1 of the upcoming draft. This list included Olave, Burks and Jameson, as well as Garrett Wilson (Ohio State), Drake London (USC) and Jahan Dotson (Penn State).
For several years now, I have utilized the expertise and insight from NFL scout Chris Landry regarding any draft-related story that I put out. I’ve done that for the draft stories this year as well, plus will utilize Chris for some insight about another wide receiver in the 2022 NFL draft who is flying under the radar somewhat.
I’m talking about George Pickens of Georgia. Going into the 2021 season, the 6’3″, 200-pound Pickens looked to be the big threat for the Bulldogs at the wide receiver position based on what he had done in 2019 and 2020.
In 2019, Pickens caught 49 passes for 727 yards and eight touchdowns. That performance led to Pickens being named to the SEC All-Freshman Team. In 2020, with four fewer games, Pickens caught 36 passes for 513 yards and six touchdowns.
Unfortunately for Pickens, he tore his ACL in spring practice before the 2021 season. But Pickens did come back to play for the Bulldogs late in the season, as he caught five passes for 107 yards. Pickens also caught a 52-yard bomb in the 2022 College Football Playoff National Championship against Alabama, as the Georgia won the national title by a score of 33-18.
Pickens still had a lot to prove in terms of how he would do at the NFL Scouting Combine. This is what Landry said before Pickens ran at the Combine:
There’s no question that George Pickens, when healthy, has dynamic ball skills and the ability to dominate as a pass-catcher down the field. But Pickens’ speed isn’t something that some insiders expect to see shine—so much so that it wouldn’t surprise some if he ran a 4.6s in the 40-yard dash. That would introduce a whole slew of questions, especially in a crowded WR class.
Pickens went from a prized recruit with plenty of hype to an unfortunate injury that cost him time and opportunities to showcase himself on the field. Despite only playing in four games and catching five passes in 2021, Pickens came out early. With little to show in 2021, the Combine is an important opportunity for Pickens who has the makings of an X receiver in the NFL. But he’ll need a strong showing in Indianapolis to help his stock and I’m worried his numbers won’t create any excitement.
Pickens is a player that was looked at as a potential first-rounder, but after tearing his ACL his draft stock fell tremendously. He managed to make it back at the end of the season to help Georgia win the national championship but hasn’t contributed enough to get NFL personnel talking about him being a potential first-rounder. I believe that Pickens’ 40-yard dash will be the make-or-break test for him. If he runs a low 4.5, the discussion of being a fringe first-rounder starts to come up again. But if he runs a high 4.5 or a 4.6, that may cause Pickens to fall into the third round.
When it came time for Pickens to run at the combine, he shocked many in attendance as he ran a 4.47 in the 40.
Recently, Landry put out his Wide Receiver Draft Board for the 2022 NFL draft. Here it is:
6.9 = Early 1st Round Value
Garret Wilson (Ohio State)
Jameson Williams (Alabama)
Drake London (USC)
Chris Olave (Ohio State)
6.4 = Early 2nd Round Value
Jahan Dotson (Penn State)
Treylon Burks (Arkansas)
David Bell (Purdue)
6.0 = Mid to Late 2nd Round Value
John Metchie (Alabama)
George Pickens (Georgia)
Christian Watson (North Dakota State)
Bottom line, based on his grades, Landry expects to see 10 wide receivers get drafted in the first two rounds of the upcoming draft. Will it play out that way? Who knows?
Landry has also put out his Horizontal Draft Board for the 2022 NFL draft. That draft board rates the top players, no matter their position. On that draft board, Landry only put out 21 1st-round grades. That being said, Landry also put out 41 2nd-round grades.
Now here is Landry’s overall scouting report on Pickens:
George Pickens came to Georgia as a five-star prospect from Hoover High School. He immediately made an impact his freshman year for the Bulldogs where he compiled 49 REC for 727 YDS and 8 TDS, including 12 REC for 175 YDS and 1 TD against Baylor in the Sugar Bowl. His sophomore year, Pickens had a solid year where he recorded 36 REC for 513 YDS and 6 TDS, including 7 REC for 135 YDS and 1 TD in the Peach Bowl against Cincinnati. Prior to the 2021 season, Pickens tore his ACL on the fourth day of spring practice, which resulted in him only playing in four games for Georgia where he had 5 REC for 107 YDS. Pickens is a WR3 with WR2 upside who wins with his above the line body control, ability to make contested catches at the high point, and outstanding straight-line speed. Pickens will need to improve in his short-to-intermediate route running along with getting bigger and stronger to be able to not get pushed around as easily by more physical cornerbacks in order to reach his full potential.
In addition to that, Landry said this about Pickens just today:
Georgia WR George Pickens feels like a throwback receiver. He is a true deep threat that excels using his size to snag the ball in contested catch situations. His route tree needs some development, but the effort and dynamic ability to come down with the football is something that teams will want to take advantage of. If Pickens can develop in those areas, he can be a true WR1.
Bottom line, with the size and the speed that Pickens has, I definitely can see the Packers using one of their 2nd round picks on him. Plus, if the top receivers start flying off the board in Round 1, I wouldn’t be shocked if the Packers took Pickens with pick No. 28.
Again, Landry said this before the Combine about Pickens:
If he runs a low 4.5, the discussion of being a fringe first-rounder starts to come up again.
Pickens did better than that, as he ran a 4.47.
I know one thing, if the Packers do select Pickens, the logo on his helmet will be the same as the one he wore with the Bulldogs.
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