2019 NFL Mock Draft: Projected first round after college football season

The Packers acquired this pick from New Orleans in a pick-swap in last season’s first round. The Saints traded up to No. 14 to select UTSA DE Marcus Davenport. Green Bay was still able to select talented Louisville corner Jaire Alexander in last season’s first round as well as adding the extra first rounder this year.

The extra pick will come in handy as the Packers hope to make a big leap next season after missing the playoffs for the second year in a row. In order to do that, Green Bay must upgrade their offensive line and prevent Aaron Rodgers from constantly running for his life.

The Packers finished tied for 3rd worst in the league in allowing 53 sacks, marking the second straight year they have struggled to protect Rodgers, who has dealt with some lingering health issues as a result. Rodgers is a magician at moving around in the pocket and creating extra time, but even he has been unable to avoid a routine beating.

After grabbing an edge rusher with their first pick, the Packers focus should be on offensive line at the end of the first round, and a versatile lineman like Kansas State’s Dalton Risner would be a perfect fit at Lambeau. His ability to play either tackle or guard, and play both positions well, will likely lead him to being selected in the mid-to-late first round range.

The Packers might use this pick for more defensive help as well, potentially deciding to double-up on edge rushers or potentially take a safety like Mississippi State’s Johnathan Abram to replace HaHa Clinton-Dix.