Packers 2016 NFL Draft – 10 Last-Minute Whispers, Predictions and Opinions

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Packers 2016 NFL Draft – 10 Last-Minute Whispers, Predictions and Opinions

Apr 28, 2016

One again, we resume our annual tradition of draft day pontification on what may happen or should happen for the Packers in this year's draft. Alas, this may be the last year I have real, credible whispers for you (and not just made-up ones like you get in most places). My "Packers Whisperer" could be riding off into the sunset after a long and distinguished career. Time will tell.

Of course all is dependent on who is available when, but over the last five years the whisperer correctly identified these players as being of great interest to the Packers: Derrick Sherrod, Randall Cobb, Casey Hayward, Terrell Manning, BJ Coleman, Johnathan Franklin. Brett Hundley and probably some others I don't remember.

So when he speaks, I listen.

Here's my list:

1) Whisper: The Packers have done lots of extra homework on Vernon Butler and Andrew Billings.

2) Prediction: Packers will select a defensive tackle with Pick 1. I have felt this way for months and I have a pretty good track record with 1st round position predictions (when I don't change my mind at the last minute). I occasionally get the player right too (BJ Raji, Derrick Sherrod, Nick Perry, Datone Jones). Anyway, Andrew Billings has been my favorite for a few months, but I expect Pittsburgh to nab him if not someone before them. I therefore decided on Kenny Clark for this year's mock, but it could just as easily be Vernon Butler, Jarran Reed or Billings if he makes it to pick 27.

3) Opinion: OLB/Elephant is more of a need than ILB. I know that's heresy to say, but; Neal is gone, and Perry & Peppers could be gone after this year. That's why they are trying Datone Jones in that spot. Face it, ILB is just not as important a position in the scheme of the Packers' defense, and that's why fans have been disappointed the last few years as early round ILBs have been passed up by Ted. It will happen again this year, but he might just throw you a bone and take one in round three.

4) Whisper: Packers are thinking tight end in Rounds 3-5. Some names whispered in my ear: Thomas Duarte, Ben Braunecker, David Morgan.

5) Prediction: This draft year will be known as the year of the trades - and I'm not referring to the Packers specifically, just in general. There will be so many trades it will make your head spin if you try to follow it all.

6) Opinion: Many seem to think the Packers HAVE to draft a speed receiver due to the offense's issues last season. But so much of that was no Jordy Nelson, fat Eddie Lacy and a scheme that had receivers running the wrong types of routes at the wrong times. McCarthy has already stated they have identified that problem and will not make the same mistakes (Thanks Mike!). With Jordy and Montgomery back, the Packers now have seven quality receivers. Do they need to waste a draft pick on another? I say no.

7) Whisper: Packers have done a lot of research on Reggie Ragland and just can't make up their minds. It's a divided room. Some think he's the guy, others have him with a second round grade. As always, it's Ted's call.

8) Prediction: I see the Packers drafting a running back in rounds 4-6. One that can catch passes out of the backfield. Tyler Ervin is my favorite in those rounds because of his kick return abilities. But I love everything C.J. Prosise does.

9) Opinion (three -pack of goodbyes): Packers are keeping Julius Peppers one year too long. BJ Raji should stay retired after this season. Sean Richardson needs to take the 2.5M guaranteed he banked last year, retire from football and move on to the next chapter of his life.

10) Final Whisper: The three OLB prospects the Packers have shown the most interest in are: Kamalei Correa, Emmanuel Ogbah and Shilique Calhoun. THIS JUST IN: Packers have made three trips to Michigan St. to see Calhoun. I didn't know this when I selected him in my mock draft earlier this afternoon, but it works out nicely.

Let the Draft Begin!

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"Jersey Al" Bracco is the Editor-In-Chief, part owner and wearer of many hats for CheeseheadTV.com and PackersTalk.com. He is also a recovering Mason Crosby truther. Follow Al on twitter at @JerseyalGBP.

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NFL Categories:

Green Bay Packers

Comments (297)

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DrealynWilliams

April 28, 2016 at 04:15 pm

I loved Billings tape too and I'd love that selection at #27. I'd have to work on liking the Calhoun pick. I just don't see it - honestly. I hope the visits were cover-ups for who they really want for the 2nd pick.

dobber

April 28, 2016 at 04:29 pm

It's still a long time 'til #27, but I always look forward to this column and it will give me more to think about as the evening unfolds. Thanks, Al!

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