Packers 2022 NFL Draft: Day 1 Analysis - Defense wins championships
The Packers bolstered their defense with the selections of Georgia's Quay Walker and Devonte Wyatt on Thursday night.
By markoldacres
The 1st round of the 2022 NFL Draft is in the books and the Green Bay Packers have two new players in the form of linebacker Quay Walker and defensive tackle Devonte Wyatt.
Green Bay has now selected three former Georgia defenders with their last three 1st round picks, following the drafting of Eric Stokes in 2021, and the Packers gave their defense a massive shot in the arm on Thursday night.
The picks will have caught many Packers fans by surprise, but both Walker and Wyatt possess the traits Green Bay traditionally covets.
Brian Gutekunst is prone to taking home run swings in the 1st round, and the Packers GM is once again betting on freakish athleticism with these two selections.
Walker posted a 9.63 Relative Athletic Score (RAS) in pre-draft testing, while Wyatt scored a 9.60. Both players are explosive athletes who could go on to be star players for years to come.
The Packers also continued their tradition of doubling up at a position in the off-season through free agency and the draft.
Back in 2019, Green Bay signed Za’Darius Smith, Preston Smith and Adrian Amos in free agency, before drafting Rashan Gary and Darnell Savage in the first time. This year, the Packers re-signed De’Vondre Campbell to a big-money deal and also picked up Jarran Reed, before adding Walker and Wyatt.
Walker represents Green Bay’s first selection of an inside linebacker in the 1st round of an NFL Draft since AJ Hawk was taken in 2006, while Wyatt is the first defensive lineman selected since Kenny Clark in 2016.
Let’s examine the prospects individually, starting with Walker.
Walker’s box score production at Georgia left much to be desired, but the traits are undeniable. Standing taller than 6’3, weighing 241 lbs. and running a 4.52 40-yard dash, Walker is an alien.
The linebacker projects to add another explosive element to Green Bay’s defense alongside Campbell, and Gutekunst said on Thursday he believes Walker will give the Packers the flexibility to keep two linebackers on the field regardless of the situation.
Wyatt is a menace on the defensive line. He’s strong, fast, and at Georgia showed scary ability as a pass rusher as well as relentless effort down after down. Wyatt explodes off the line and can get into the backfield in a hurry.
His hands are powerful and skilled, and he can also use these attributes to get the better of his opponent. Wyatt has the versatility to line up in different spots along the defensive line as well.
There have been some off the field issues which have popped up with Wyatt, but Gutekunst assured reporters the Packers did their due diligence on the person they would be bringing in to the building.
Wyatt represents a departure from Gutekunst’s normal 1st round player profile in that he’s an older prospect at 24 years old. If Wyatt plays out his full four-year contract as well as his fifth-year option, before signing a second contract with the Packers, he would enter that season aged 29.
Ultimately, Green Bay added two dynamic, exciting prospects to their defense, and it could be argued Joe Barry’s unit now has zero holes except maybe a third safety.
Much of the post-round-one discourse will undoubtedly centre around Green Bay not selecting a wide receiver. But based on how the evening played out, this should not be a surprise.
Many talented pass catchers came off the board on Thursday night, but in truth, they were almost universally drafted too early.
In a deep draft class at a variety of positions, including receiver, the Packers were wise not to trade up for any of the wideouts who were taken, based on where they ended up being picked. The value simply wasn’t there.
Fortunately, there is more than one round in the NFL Draft, and there are plenty of receivers left whom Green Bay could target on day two, including John Metchie, George Pickens, Alec Pierce, Christian Watson, Skyy Moore, Romeo Doubs and Jalen Tolbert.
It could be argued none of the receivers drafted on Thursday fit the Green Bay mould as much as some of the names listed above.
Rest assured, the Packers will leave the 2022 NFL Draft with a wide receiver, and probably more than one.
In the meantime, Packers fans can take solace in the knowledge that their team’s defense is beginning to look frightening.
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Mark Oldacres is a sports writer from Birmingham, England and a Green Bay Packers fan. You can follow him on twitter at @MarkOldacres
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Comments (208)
croatpackfan
April 29, 2022 at 06:12 am
It looks like I predicted that Gutekunst would not take WR in the 1st round this year. I have to admit that prediction was based on what I hear from BG and what was his way of constructing the roster. Still fulfillment of that prediction purely based on luck. I had no clue who and when he will draft a player on the different positions.
But, after all if he got all star player from one of those to and useful one of another, I'm happy with his selections.
murf7777
April 29, 2022 at 06:36 am
I can hear the crowd chanting now……Deeeeefense……Deeeeefense! It’s music to my ears. I want the Packers D to be feared.
dobber
April 29, 2022 at 08:05 am
Chanting rather than pleading?
LambeauPlain
April 29, 2022 at 08:33 am
Well said.
This year chanting as we did with Fritz's Fighters in 1996...with expectation!
dobber
April 29, 2022 at 09:32 am
That was an unbelievable unit...we may never see another defense like that one.
KenEllis
April 29, 2022 at 09:42 am
Whaddya mean "feared?"
The Pack's D has been feared for a long time ... oh, I get it, I think you mean feared by the opposition rather than by Packer fans. :)
Philarod
April 29, 2022 at 11:34 am
Good point, I feared Capers's and Pettine's schemes for years.
Turophile
April 29, 2022 at 11:07 am
There are several Packer posters that suggested the first round was not necessarily going to be a WR.
It's only the non-Packer crowd that are talking about how Rodgers must be hurt and that the Packers made a mistake getting arguably the second best DT (after Davis) and the 2nd best ILB after Devin Lloyd, (who Walker went before), instead of the 7th best receiver.
If 6 receivers go between picks 8-18, you either pay a great deal to move up for one of them (as the Lions did to get Jermaine Johnson at 12), or you reach down your board to take the 7th best WR, or you get better value elsewhere (which is exactly what the Packers did).
jannesbjornson
April 29, 2022 at 08:41 am
They better move up into the 33-38 range, or the best of the rest will be gone along with the moonshine. Wyatt is the best of the D line group. Qway can hit, move and cover. The receiver shopping frenzy was over-reach for some of these twigs.
LambeauPlain
April 29, 2022 at 08:42 am
I believe MLF and Barry did a good job communicating to Gutey the defense's needs and the prospects to fill them.
I felt Wyatt may be at 28 (who many have rated as DT #1 or #2), but never even considered Walker would last to 22.
This is also going to be a fun day...for the O.
dobber
April 29, 2022 at 09:30 am
Not at all surprised they didn't draft a WR. In a draft where WR and OLB are both supposedly really deep--and where all the WRs have their warts--they're playing that depth. Isn't that what we'd want? Other teams squandering capital to draft non-elite players early?
Am surprised they drafted an ILB...but I can see a path for that. Hey, they could've drafted a QB.
Minniman
April 29, 2022 at 03:15 pm
Agree Turophile. It is cold comfort to some, but for the WR market, the first round of the draft fell poorly for the Packers - Gute was wise to not be the dumb gambler and chase losses there….. meaning he gained +++ elsewhere.
With the remaining WR’s, he may attempt to trade up a few spaces, but I don’t think that he mortgages the farm there either.
greengold
April 29, 2022 at 03:50 pm
1 bazillion % Minniman! BRINGIN’ it!
I think he holds firm here, taking EDGE, WR, WR tonight. Possibly EDGE, WR, S, in any order. Great talents abound for us, at all of our weak spots. Considering this, that cannot be said for ILB and DL.
Brilliant move by Gutekunst to add a generational talent in Devonte Wyatt, and the top choice amongst their scouts in Quay Walker. What a completely athletic freak! Wishing them the very best in Geebs!
Gloves are off. Go get your guys.
Turophile
April 29, 2022 at 05:10 pm
Especially DL.
That group thins out real fast and yet the Packers got the no.2 guy available at pick 28. Well done Gute for having the stones to let WR wait until better value is there, while picking a position where there is no real value later (well, nothing except for the reasonable two down run-stuffer and nothing more).
BTW, Davis (first DT taken) may turn out to be just a 2 down guy. Sure he is absolutely huge, but huge guys often fail (see OT Aaron Gibson, the 6'8", 390lb OT - he did very little for a guy too many people got over-excited about).
KenEllis
April 29, 2022 at 08:19 am
I like the picks and I like what Gutey has done on the defensive side of the ball since he took over as GM.
Just like Ted, Gutey has gone all D in round 1 of the draft (except for 2020 as we all know), but Alexander, Stokes, and Gary already surpass Ted's Perry, Datone Jones, HaHa Clinton-Dix, Randall, and King selections.
That said, while I generally agree that defense wins championships ...there will be no championships for a team with a group of pass catchers like the one Gutey is currently staring at.
Would love for Gutey to make a move for a veteran WR who can contribute in 2022 and I don't mean a broken down, unwanted street free agent who is on his 5th team in 5 years.
jannesbjornson
April 29, 2022 at 08:43 am
Remember the Basketball player with ONE year of college ball with the two pick???
KenEllis
April 29, 2022 at 08:58 am
Yeah, I remember slow-footed, small school Q with about as much fondness as I remember the self-proclaimed future Hall of Famer with no position out of UCLA who contributed next to nothing over 4 years and the 4-3 DE out of USC who told anyone who would listen he did not want to play OLB in a 3-4 scheme, but Ted drafted him anyway - and then gave him a huge second deal after his only decent season.
The drafting on the defensive side of the ball between 2011-2017 was an abomination (other than the blind squirrel finding Kenny Clark).
Gute looks to be a much better evaluator of defensive talent than Ted was ... now if we could Gute to channel his inner-Ted when it came to drafting WRs :)
LambeauPlain
April 29, 2022 at 09:20 am
Well, it is the second round now. Let's see what happens today and huddle again tonight.
The difference between the college production of the the WRs over drafted last night and those still available is rather thin.
Coldworld
April 29, 2022 at 01:11 pm
I would not be at all shocked if the best WRs in this draft have yet to be picked, for both for the long term and even this year.
jannesbjornson
April 29, 2022 at 09:43 am
Gute pushed Josh Jones after the rest of the syndicate lobbied Ted(?) to move on King over TJ Watt; perennial All-Pro. Milt Hendrickson is saving the Pack from the remaining moss clinging to the Wolf tree.
KenEllis
April 29, 2022 at 11:12 am
Please don't bring up 2017, it is still too painful for many of us to ponder (and not just the decision to select King over he who shall not be named).
And you bring up an excellent point about Hendrickson.
He arrived from an organization in Baltimore that knew/knows how to draft D and perhaps that is the reason we are not seeing so many defensive busts among our top picks under Gutey.
Coldworld
April 29, 2022 at 01:26 pm
2017 was Ball/TT supported by Elliot Wolf and a lot of soon-to-be departees to the Browns (mostly briefly). Gute was down the pecking order and not appointed until January 18.
greengold
April 29, 2022 at 03:56 pm
First, I loved Ken Ellis back in the day Great choice!
Secondly, I could just as easily see RB, WR, OT, while adding MORE OT depth thereafter on top of a prize addition tonight.
OT/OG Darien Kinnard, OT Braxton Jones, or OT Abe Lucas??? Insane talents.
Lphill
April 29, 2022 at 06:16 am
Playoffs , play defense , run the ball seems to be the trend.
NickPerry
April 29, 2022 at 06:33 am
The Packers will have an elite running game and a elite defense. It just may be the way to get over the hump.
dobber
April 29, 2022 at 08:06 am
At least they're finally trying to set up something different.
Coldworld
April 29, 2022 at 09:02 am
It looks to me like they don’t see Rodgers remaining long term. The team continues to be built in a way that does not center on the QB and is actually driven to succeed regardless of who is there.
croatpackfan
April 29, 2022 at 02:29 pm
And, as I read, Diva has no objection on drafting D in the first round. Pat McAfee show:
“Obviously, our defense is going to be really good, and defense wins championships, as David Bakhtiari tweeted,” Rodgers said.
ShooterMcGee
April 29, 2022 at 03:52 pm
Rodgers will continue to choke in the playoffs regardless of the receivers around him. So I like the emphasis on defense too. Perhaps we will have a chance once that choker retires.
Gee
April 29, 2022 at 02:29 pm
Yep we are going to have the best game manager in the game. Take that Brady!! In all seriousness, Rodgers has one of the best fake out there and now a run game that is going to make every lbs and safety go forward first, and that's all he needs. Dink and dunk until the D bleeds to death. Man I may even keep my eyes open when the D 3rd and short from now on! Man I cannot wait to see another O-Line get blown off the line.
jannesbjornson
April 29, 2022 at 08:55 am
If they want to go into Bill Walsh's playbook, they better snag a Fullback and another power running back, or they will be singing the tune of 3rd and long,2nd, 3rd and short 4 no gain, again, if Dillon is injured. Two more elite O linemen, two more big TEs etc etc etc...Get the two WRs with speed round two. Move into the second for another pick. Oh, he also had a HOF WR and WR #2 Taylor and WR3# with Freddy Solomon and an All-Pro TE for the dessert item.
slant_route
April 29, 2022 at 09:05 am
A team that can physically dominate in a cold weather NFC championship home game. Admittedly the SuperBowl is not ever a cold weather game, but let's get there first then whupp up on a finesse team.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
April 29, 2022 at 10:02 am
Agreed but there are LOTS of talented WR's left and Gutey will select several. The pantry will not be bare by end of draft. Watch tape on a dozen remaining WR's and they are all talented. A matter of what combination works best and fits with what the team wants from their WR's. Totally comfortable on their approach. No panic but thoughtful and strategically planned.
NickPerry
April 29, 2022 at 06:30 am
Personally I thought Gute did EXACTLY what he should have done. He didn't reach for Watson or Pickens at 22 or 28, and he DID improve the team. I like Walker, ESPECIALLY with Joe Barry's knack for turning ILB's into All-Pros. The middle of the Packers defense, whether it's against the run or the pass just got one hell of a lot better. Not to mention if Campbell or Clark had to ever miss time, they wouldn't be TOTALLY screwed while they recovered.
PackEyedOptimist
April 29, 2022 at 06:41 am
:-D
You said everything I was going to say!
Two guys that play run AND pass well = no need to substitute for situations.
A guy like Walker reduces the need for a nickel/star/safety.
Defense wins championships, especially when paired with a balanced offense.
packerbackerjim
April 29, 2022 at 07:10 am
The days of getting gashed 20 yards down the middle have come to an end. The frustrations of ILBs chasing and never catching the WR/TEs are over. A fast defense long dreamt of have materialized. A switch to the offense before adding depth and ST contributors will be must see TV.
dobber
April 29, 2022 at 08:20 am
These were picks that plug into the rotation immediately...they might not start day 1, but I think they'll be part of the game plan from the start.
Walker is an immediate athletic upgrade from Barnes with better range and better potential as a pass defender. This likely marks a shift away from such heavy usage of that third S...the Henry Blacks and Raven Greenes. Whether Walker is the right guy or not, time will tell, but they not only got a better partner for Campbell at ILB but possibly his replacement a little ways down the road.
I was pulling hard for Jermaine Johnson when he slid to 22. I thought he was too good an opportunity to pass up. The Packers were thin at OLB last year and even used Burks as an off-ball OLB some to fill in while Z was hurt. It could be Walker (or Campbell) does some of that. We'll see if they pull the trigger on a pass rusher tonight.
Slaton took a while to get himself integrated into the DL rotation last year, but I think Wyatt takes up meaningful snaps in the Keke role right away. He's a dynamic piece for the DL. I've been hoping for a stud 5-tech for years, but it's clear the Packers have a 'type' for the DL: 6'3", 300-315. Interchangeable pieces. Lowry is the exception. In the end, there are three good, active pieces here (Clark, Slaton, Wyatt) and this front seven got better last nigh.
LambeauPlain
April 29, 2022 at 08:48 am
Kenny, Reed, Lowry, Wyatt, Slaton, maybe Hefflin, are going grind many O lines into exhaustion and hands on hips by the 4th quarter!
dobber
April 29, 2022 at 08:56 am
I think Heflin better be hoping he can hold a spot on the PS at this point.
Gee
April 29, 2022 at 10:19 am
Hmm unless Lowery gets cut post June 1. I think that may be a tad risky, but it opens up more space.
croatpackfan
April 29, 2022 at 02:33 pm
I believe Lowery is not on the Packers roster, Bee.
packerbackerjim
April 29, 2022 at 11:03 am
I wonder what Berry really thinks of Jonathan Garvin. He is still young and has flashed a bit last year, 1.5 sacks in limited action. While I doubt he will be the reason EDGE/OLB won’t be taken, I look forward to how he performs this year.
Coldworld
April 29, 2022 at 01:25 pm
They are also very high on Ramsey, but he’s always hurt in my opinion.
The_Baloney_Stops_Here
April 29, 2022 at 11:28 am
The even d-line is deeper than you think. They still have Jarran Reed and Lowry is coming off a career year after quietly having a really good first year in Joe Barry's defense. The D-line, and the front 7 as a whole, just became the biggest strength of this football team.
michael562
April 29, 2022 at 12:54 pm
I was pulling for Johnson, also
murf7777
April 29, 2022 at 06:32 am
YES, defense does win championships and I predict we are going to have a top 5 D with these two additions. We have solidified the middle, our only weakness in the Packers D. Now, I’m not happy about Quay as I thought there was better players at pick 22, but Gutey has a very good track record in the first 60 picks, so in Gutey I trust. I really like the Wyat pick thou.
RCPackerFan
April 29, 2022 at 07:51 am
I said the same thing last night. I feel like we are going to have a top 5 defense now.
Even before these picks, getting Jaire back to go with Stokes and Douglas changes our defense. Campbell is the reigning DPOY, we have Clark who is a stud. They brought in Reed. Our DL is upgraded especially if Slaton can take a step. But now adding a Campbell like player next to Campbell, changes our defense. I like Barnes, but Walker could be a big time upgrade. Maybe he doesn't step in as the day one starter but they will have a role for him at the very least.
Our front 7 just got way better and pair that with our CB's. Our defense is going to be legit!
murf7777
April 29, 2022 at 08:08 am
He will help our ST's as well.....athletic and 4.5 speed, sounds like a person who does whatever it takes to help the team.
RCPackerFan
April 29, 2022 at 01:34 pm
Also have to think that Barnes will be more of a contributor on special teams as well.
The_Baloney_Stops_Here
April 29, 2022 at 11:30 am
Walker has far greater physicsal upside than Campbell ever had too. With Joe Barry's tutelage, Walker has a better than average chance of becoming the centerpiece of an already loaded defense.
dobber
April 29, 2022 at 08:28 am
In the end, if the two picks were flipped--Wyatt at 22 and Walker at 28--most people wouldn't be too upset. Dean and Lloyd were still on the board at 22, and maybe that's what has people peeved more than anything else: the Packers took the less-hyped guy (and, admittedly, he's more of a projection). But he's also the bigger guy with the most room to grow. High upside, but likely a lower floor. Clearly, he's bringing something they wanted.
LambeauPlain
April 29, 2022 at 09:12 am
Walker was the best tackler on the elite Bulldog D. He only had 3 missed tackles in 15 games last year. He's a thumper and a stopper.
But here is what they wanted as much...Walker is really good rushing the passer between the tackles. His cover skills are so so and he has room to improve, but he will not come off the field on 3rd downs. He will be part of the rush packages that Barnes just does not do well. And unlike Barnes, Walker has cover skills Barnes will never possess.
Walker is probably the best pass rushing ILB in this draft...maybe Chenal is better...but it is close.
dobber
April 29, 2022 at 09:34 am
...and Chenal would likely be a wasted pick at this point.
LambeauPlain
April 29, 2022 at 01:11 pm
Leo will not be a Packer unless he drops to the 4th...maybe not then, either. But he won't. He will be drafted today.
The_Baloney_Stops_Here
April 29, 2022 at 11:33 am
Walker had a really good pass coverage grade. Thats the main reason they drafted him. joe Barry doesnt bkitz much. He wants to rush 4 and drop 7 without having to bring in a 3rd safety in the nickel defense. Walker accomplishes that for them.
GregC
April 29, 2022 at 12:10 pm
I've heard mixed reports on his pass coverage skills. This from nfldraftbuzz.com:
"Lacks skills in coverage - has surrendered a far from impressive 95.6 career QB rating when targeted in pass defense."
That doesn't sound disastrous to me, and it may be based on a small sample size. What kind of pass coverage grade did you read about?
Coldworld
April 29, 2022 at 02:34 pm
Here’s one example:
“In 2021 especially, Walker was Georgia's coverage backer. They often aligned him to the passing strength and put him on the field in favor of either Nakobe Dean or Channing Tindall on passing downs whenever possible. Though only an average athlete in space, Walker has an excellent understanding for zone coverage. He knows how to re-route players into different zone defenders, and he knows exactly where he needs to flow to after passing off routes. Walker seldom gave up air around pass-catchers in coverage and consistently triggered quickly to play the ball or make a tackle.”
https://syndication.bleacherreport.com/amp/10021399-quay-walker-nfl-draf...
GregC
April 29, 2022 at 02:52 pm
Thanks for that. Sounds like they know what they're talking about.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
April 29, 2022 at 10:11 am
Dobber,
Feel you expressed my thoughts 100%.
AugustusOfBorg
April 29, 2022 at 03:07 pm
Yes
AugustusOfBorg
April 29, 2022 at 03:07 pm
Our defense played amazing in the Divisional Round last year… only gave up 3 points. But we had a very “special” special teams unit, a sleepwalking quarterback, no run game, and receivers who couldn’t get separation the entire night. Clearly the adage that “defenses win championships” doesn’t really carry that much weight in today’s league. Could the D use some tune ups after losing Smith? Sure, but that wasn’t the most glaring need, especially after losing Adams.
HarryHodag
April 29, 2022 at 06:33 am
Teams put players into rankings based on what they see as ability. All the WR's with first round rankings were gone by the time their picks arrived. So they can easily grab a skilled receiver with one or both of their selections in round 2.
This is smart use of the draft board. Fans get all aglow over someone that the national media dopes hype but the teams look at the draft with steely-eyed coldness. Giving a second round receiver first round money just to fill a need while other 1st round prospects go to other teams is not smart.
The Packers will have a very good defense it appears. If Aaron Rodgers pulls the plug after this year the team won't need to score a ton of points to win games. This defense will be relatively young and pretty good for a few years.
But then again you never know how any player will pan out after the pads come on.
murf7777
April 29, 2022 at 06:50 am
Harry….I think Gutey wanted to move up, but and I didn’t check sources, the amount of draft capital teams gave up seemed very high this year. Give Gutey credit for keeping good discipline and not giving away the bank of capital.
Archie777
April 29, 2022 at 07:05 am
The exception may have been the AJ Brown trade. Seemed cheap except for the $100 MM 4 yr ext. But that is today's market for a top WR. Another factor that may drive teams back to the run game. GBP may surprise us with a RB pick in this draft. OT, WR and TE may be the order of the day tonight.
murf7777
April 29, 2022 at 07:11 am
Archie, I wouldn’t be surprised if they take a pass catching type of TE in the second round, depending on which WR’s are available.
AgrippaLII
April 29, 2022 at 08:03 am
I think the same way. The top TE available would be a better value than any of the wide receivers still on the board. But I think Gute would have to trade up to get him.
dobber
April 29, 2022 at 08:36 am
I think there's a lot of value and depth in those dual-purpose TEs in this draft that will last well into day 3. There's only so much you can do with your draft capital...I wonder if they go looking for a big, raw, athletic guy in rounds 4 or 5.
jannesbjornson
April 29, 2022 at 09:58 am
If he doesn't move up for Watson or Pierce, McBride MAY be there at #53. The feeding freenzy for WRs will be in full shark mode starting With #33.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
April 29, 2022 at 10:25 am
I agree and would include Pickens there as well.
There are so many other pretty good WR's available and the real question is how does Gutey compare WR's like Velus Jones, Calvin Austin, Kyle Philips, John Metchie, Danny Gray, Khalil Shakir, Jalen Tolbert, Tyquan Thornton, Samori Toure, Skyy Moore, David Bell, Josh Johnson, and others. I have watched these guys videos twice and a few three times and there are just some good players there. I admit it is easy to get wrapped up about a certain WR but the Scouting Dept has no doubt focused a lot of their attention on WR's this year. They have to appease Rodgers, and the fan base. I am certain they have at least two WR's identified and have them slotted where they fit best.
jannesbjornson
April 29, 2022 at 10:43 am
The only guys that interest me after the top two are Skyy Moore and Doubs. My third round field changer is Bo Melton (4.34) from Rutgers who just terrorized the Badgers. A smart GM would move UP into the second for him. I am hoping he doesn't go down the Pickens road. A 6'-3, 4.47 guy with injury history vs 6'-4/6'-3" guys with 4.36/4.4 . Watson with the 10"-0 mitts. He should be the target. No need to appease me, get big play guys and Score Points.
Coldworld
April 29, 2022 at 01:35 pm
No mighty mice slot types please. We need periphery skill sets and build.
greengold
April 29, 2022 at 02:38 pm
Brady won a pile of rings throwing to these guys:
Wes Welker 5-9 185 4.65
Julian Edelman 5-10 198 4.52
I’ve been thinking a lot about this profile, because there are some really great talents, and they have exhibited TOUGHNESS throughout their careers.
I’m not afraid one bit of adding that kind of variety to our roster. They offer far more quicks in gaining a different kind of separation.
—-
Btw, I just returned from my double hernia surgery. Wow. All robotics by one of the best surgeons. I can’t believe how much better I am right now. Had surgery on one side as an 11 year old in 1974… was hospitalized for two days. Now? Checked in at 5am, back home climbing stairs without using railing 8 hours later…
The marvels of modern medicine…
Really appreciate yours and everyone else’s well wishes! Thanks a TON!
——
Hoping for the best with the rest… really liking Dereke Young as a WR add tomorrow. How fun would THAT be??? Isaiah Weston & Britain Covey could hit late as well…
Coldworld, I think you & I are bashing around info/takes on WR/PR/KR talents EVERY year for roughly 6 or 7 years now? Hilarious. Best to you!! Let’s hope they get some great talent adds to compete there.
Coldworld
April 29, 2022 at 02:37 pm
Brady did, but we have slot players and not peripheral ones and exceptions exist to every rule but seldom disprove them.
Glad you are on the mend. Should be a fun day to watch the draft.
greengold
April 29, 2022 at 02:42 pm
Yeah. Remarkable some of the talents we dug up as the amateurs we are…over that span. Whoosh!… but fun fun fun. I just love the personnel side of this. Easy to see you and ALOT OF OTHERS here do too. Cheers to that. Been a real blast sharing/learning. Thank you!
dobber
April 29, 2022 at 08:41 am
A lot of WR picked or changed hands last night. Some teams clearly deciding to cut bait rather than engaging in the talks over bloated WR extensions. I wonder just how much pressure there will be on the position early in round 2?
I'd be looking for two pass-catchers and an OL tonight, but I wouldn't be surprised at all if the Packers look for an OLB/DE who can bring pressure and push those offensive pieces more into day three.
Coldworld
April 29, 2022 at 09:27 am
I have come to see a lot of gems in the WR class throughout this draft, not just the most cited names. The right choices could yield effective contributions through day 3. I’d like to see one today at least, but I’m really somewhat relieved that we didn’t gamble in some of the ones taken, who in my view could be busts as easily as not. There really wasn’t a guy I considered a home run pick at receiver, even Williams, though Detroit clearly did.
There are a lot of highly rated non receivers yet to go. Jones, Mafe, Raiman, Booth, Hall, Ojabo, Briskier, Pitre to name a few as well as a bunch of QBs. It’s going to be interesting, but it’s not certain that the best value on most boards is going to be at WR when round two starts.
dobber
April 29, 2022 at 09:42 am
Well said.
Many teams took WR off their high-end need list last night, too, and just like Packers fans are shitting a brick over no WR, they're trying to figure out what to do with decreased draft capital and lots of needs.
GregC
April 29, 2022 at 01:19 pm
Yeah, once receiver #6 was off the board, I stopped worrying about receivers. Once again, the position just was not in the cards for the Packers in the first round. The ones who were taken fifth and sixth looked kind of iffy anyway, even at #22. Of the four top picks, three are quite small, so I wasn't even sure about them. None of them looked to be worth big trade-ups.
greengold
April 29, 2022 at 03:10 pm
I expect it to be about as intense as last night… history repeats. Happened just two years ago, and fully expect it here.
Gutekunst may want to trade up for a WR or may deem that unnecessary, being a truly deep group of talents. There are some special ones he may go for, knowing his MO.
OTOH, he may bypass WR altogether R2… the class is that deep.
Funny, differences between some traded up for last night seem quite marginal. True #1WR type talents are still there for the taking, minute group, but still there. It was a minute group last night!
Hoping for the best.
blondy45
April 29, 2022 at 01:37 pm
VERY HIGH indeed Murf! I used Draf Tek value chart for this information.
1. Wash. 11 [1250] to N.O. 16 (1050) 98 (440) 120 (54) [1544] for Chris Olave
2. Minn. 12 (1200) 46 (440) [1640] to Det. 32 (590) 24 (560) 64 (270) [1420] for Jameson Williams
3. Hou. 13 [1150] to Phil 15 (1050) 124 (42) 162 (25) 166 (23.4) [1140.4] for Jordan Davis
4. Az. 23 (760) 100 (100) [860] to Bal Marquise Brown the 25th pick in the first round of 2019 for the Ravens = comp of the 20th choice this year [850] plus a much higher salary to sign.
5. Bal. 23 [760] to Buffalo 25 (720) 130 (42) [762] for Kaiir Elam. Bal. chose Tyler Lindstrom
6. Phil. 18 (900) 101 (96) [996] to Tenn. for A. J. Brown 2020 Pro Bowler= 2022 comp of the 16th choice this year [1000] plus higher salary to sign for Treylon Burks.
7. N E. 21 [800] to K. C. 29 (640) 94 (124) 121 (52) [816] for Trent McDuffie. New England chose Cole Strange (?) with their choice.
8. Tenn. 26 (700 101 (96) [796] to New York Jets 35 (550) 69 (245) 163 (24.6) [819.6] Jermaine Johnson II.
9. Tampa Bay 27 [680] to Jax. 33 (580) 106 (82) 180 (17.8) [679.8] for Devin Lloyd.
That is a lot of draft capital to move up to get players that are no slam dunks to be special.
This year instead of QBs being over paid, it was the WRs. I am very pleased with Gute to hold his water & not over-pay.
croatpackfan
April 29, 2022 at 02:40 pm
Well, Lions move from 32nd pick to 12 in trade with Vikings. They swap 2nd round picks and Lions add 3rd round pick. How that sound expensive? Lions basically moved for 20 positin for 3rd round pick!
dobber
April 29, 2022 at 09:40 am
"Fans get all aglow over someone that the national media dopes hype but the teams look at the draft with steely-eyed coldness."
I dump on the DIC a lot--it's all glitz, and not much meat. But it fills a void in our information chain, even if it's not much more than another form of fantasy football. A lot of people invest heavily in it. I hope they enjoy themselves, but the draft ultimately shows you that--just like when you draft your rosters in the fall and slap a cheesy name on your FFL team--it's what happens with NFL rosters, coaches, and GMs that really matters. These guys' jobs depend on finding the right guys for their rosters, dictated on cap, short-and-long-term planning, needs, and succession plans...the highly publicized draftniks are just selling fluff.
jannesbjornson
April 29, 2022 at 10:48 am
No doubt, we miss Joel Bushbaum.
dobber
April 29, 2022 at 01:27 pm
HIs old PFW draft guides were gold
AugustusOfBorg
April 29, 2022 at 03:04 pm
My question is: if they’re planning on changing the team dynamic to be a heavy defense and run-focused team that could win games even if Rodgers pulls the plug, then why did they just pay him $50mil? They’re trying to have their cake and eat it too. I believe this year really is SB or bust, and playing for the future instead of right now is a classic case of overthinking the draft.
Coldworld
April 29, 2022 at 04:59 pm
Just maybe Rodgers let that cat out of the bag. Seems he and potentially the team thought Adams was coming back when Rodgers was signed, at least that’s what he appeared to suggest from his perspective.
PackfanNY
April 29, 2022 at 06:54 am
This could be the most talented and deep defensive line we have had in years. The days of doubling up Kenny Clark appear over. The additions of Wyatt and Reed (people forget we picked him up) give our opponents someone else to worry about. This will free up Rashan Gary to wreak havoc as well. Anyone busting free will have the athletic Quay Walker and De’vondre Campbell tracking them down. We also have a great secondary. This defense has a chance.
Now, let’s get after some playmakers on Day 2! GPG! In Gute we trust.
NickPerry
April 29, 2022 at 07:12 am
"The days of doubling up Kenny Clark appear over. The additions of Wyatt and Reed (people forget we picked him up) give our opponents someone else to worry about."
People also forget Reed had 10.5 sacks in 2018 and 6.5 in 2020. I really liked that addition when Gute signed him, I like it even more now. Opposing offenses have a LOT to worry about now.
Now I know I'm a bit of a homer, probably a little more than most. But friends, this is a defense to get REALLY excited about. Not only do the Packers have DEPTH, a key to EVERY SB winning team. But tell me, just WHO are you going to double now? The Packers could even give Clark a rest on a 3rd down for example and STILL create havoc inside with Wyatt and Reed. WATCH Wyatts tape, a man his size just shouldn't be able to move like that.
Guam
April 29, 2022 at 07:59 am
Well said NP. I have been hoping for years that the Packers would get Clark some help and then they signed Reed and drafted Wyatt! Same story at ILB - the Packers have been weak up the middle for a decade. Then they take a flyer on Campbell last year and draft Walker this year! I really like this defense now and Joe Barry must be doing cartwheels in the Packer offices.
Go Pack Go!
dobber
April 29, 2022 at 09:46 am
If you'll notice last night, the Packers didn't use their full time on either pick. They didn't seem to be waiting to see if they were going to get a good trade offer or anything...they seemed to push the card up to the podium pretty quickly--which argues they knew what they wanted as soon as they were on the clock.
Coldworld
April 29, 2022 at 01:32 pm
Wyatt was a consensus top ten pick until personal rumors broke. I’m confident that the Packers evaluated those—we aren’t a criminal refuge team. We got outstanding value with that pick on purely football merit.
LambeauPlain
April 29, 2022 at 08:07 am
Nick, Many had Wyatt rated as the top DL in the draft. His play speed is amazing and he doesn't quit. When Gutey brought him in, I was concerned it was to confirm keeping him off his board due to a few off field incidents. As it turned out, he wanted to look Wyatt in the eye and be convinced to keep him on the board. Mission accomplished.
I am giddy to have a top rated ILB for a change. I was hoping one of the top ILBs would drop today...but Gutey does what he does...surprise!
For the first time since...ever?...the Pack has 2 three down backers hunting the runner and the pass. The front 7 is now as good as I can recall. Kenny, Reed, Wyatt, Lowry, Slaton, Smith, Gary, Campbell, Walker to go with Alexander, Stokes, Douglas, Amos, Savage daring QBs to throw "under pressure." Running on that group is going to be a task too!
Rodgers and the O better be ready to take the field after a lot of 3 and outs.
OL, WR, TE, Edge even RB on the menu today and tomorrow. I expect Gutey to be nimble as well, using the 4ths to move up.
marpag1
April 29, 2022 at 01:47 pm
"The front 7 is now as good as I can recall."
Hmmm....?
LDE Reggie White
LDT Gilbert Brown
RDT Santana Dotson
RDE Sean Jones
LLB Wayne Simmons
MLB George Koonce
RLB Brian Williams
croatpackfan
April 29, 2022 at 02:56 pm
At that time it was almost completely different game of football...
marpag1
April 29, 2022 at 05:36 pm
First, to say that the NFL "was almost completely different" in 1996 in the days of Favre and Reggie is an absurd exaggeration. It most certainly was NOT a completely different game, or anything close to that.
Second, even if there have been changes in the game, it's not too difficult to understand that all teams are judged relative to their contemporaries. Below is a list of the statistical rankings for the 1996 Packers defense. Do you think that the 2022 Packers will do better than this?
1996 TOTAL DEFENSE
#1 in points allowed
#1 in total yards allowed
#1 in yards allowed per play
1996 PASSING DEFENSE
#1 in total passing yards allowed
#2 in completion percentage allowed
#1 in passing yards per attempt
#1 in opponent passer rating
1996 RUSHING DEFENSE
#4 in total rushing yards allowed (they gave up ONE yard more than #3)
#3 in average yards per carry allowed
greengold
April 29, 2022 at 03:21 pm
Yeah. I know Santana Dotson & Gilbert Brown. Been friends for years. They’d laugh their asses off on that one. However, I’m sure they like the pick, BIGTIME! Koonce would too. …. No doubt, marpag1.
Mentioned Santana & Gilbert specifically because those dudes, even to this day, are inseparable. So damn fun. Last time I hooked up with them, we didn’t bring up football once. It was ALL BUCKS!!! Superfun.
The 3 of us just mowing Solly’s burgers one afternoon. They hang out near my studio. Fun hearing their takes - always.
COACHROB64
April 29, 2022 at 08:50 am
In Gute we trust? The guy that pisses off all the star players until they leave? The guy that didnt notice we literally have no WRs? yuck yuck, we had to keep the G on their helmet. Complete useless idiot who has no idea how to lead.
dobber
April 29, 2022 at 09:05 am
Pisses off all the star players? All the one? Take a look around the league. What happened in GB is happening in a lot of places--daily, it seems.
Can't stop you if you want to hate on Gute, but you can't turn a blind eye to the fact that there are plenty of guys posturing to try to get paid--the pandemic stifled salaries--and they know there are big bucks on the horizon from the new TV deals.
As for the WR issue: there's good talent on the board, yet, and the Packers didn't blow high-end capital chasing a reach player...Jahan Dotson at 16? Geez, that's like paying $6/gallon on gas. If you're going to pay your MVP QB MVP-QB-money, he'd better be able to elevate his receivers.
The_Baloney_Stops_Here
April 29, 2022 at 11:39 am
Found the Stockholder burner account
COACHROB64
April 29, 2022 at 11:20 am
I trust Gute to piss off our best players until they leave, and trade up to get a kicker.
Arod can hand off 3x and punt. Hopefully the GA defense can score.
croatpackfan
April 29, 2022 at 02:59 pm
You must be coach of cockroach...
SugarCain
April 29, 2022 at 06:55 am
2 starters and more Size and SPEED on Defense!
Huge upgrades from Barnes and Lowry and Slaton!!
dobber
April 29, 2022 at 08:40 am
Don't sleep on Slaton. I thought in limited snaps last year he showed good movement and 'get-after-it'. If Slaton is the weakest DL in the rotaton, they're doing pretty well.
Bottom line is that they can't be playing Clark as much as they do and expect him to last. They're making this a situation where they can get him some plays off and not decline so dramatically up front.
Coldworld
April 29, 2022 at 09:46 am
It’s overdue to provide Clark with some ability to rest and to be able to use him and other pieces creatively. It’s also over GM due to stop using Lowry as an every down type. We finally made an effort to get better than just adequate. Lowry will also benefit from less snap in my view too.
LambeauPlain
April 29, 2022 at 11:04 am
Totally agree. Kenny, Reed, Wyatt, Lowry, Slaton in a rotation is going exhaust O lines. Shoot, Barry may even play more 3-4 base now with Reed and Wyatt joining the line and Walker a threat to bring pressure between the tackles.
murf7777
April 29, 2022 at 07:08 am
My thoughts on the first round on this years draft…
1. Too many reaches for WR’s
2. Surprised more QB’s didn’t go
3. Too much draft capital was spent to move up
4. Can’t believe how many trades were made
5. Surprised two of those trades were for WR’s not being drafted.
5. Gutey stayed disciplined and stated it was too expensive to move up, per NFL channel. Here’s to you Gutey.
Rodgers and Bak stated after the draft Defense wins championships….YES… Our defense, now is fast and explosive throughout.
NickPerry
April 29, 2022 at 07:18 am
I'm right there with you murf, and happy Gute stayed disciplined and didn't trade valuable 2nd or 3rd round picks. This draft is ALL ABOUT the depth in the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th rounds. The Packers are in excellent shape and a MUCH better team after round 1.
LambeauPlain
April 29, 2022 at 08:16 am
QBs are going off the board today pushing top talent at WR, OL, TE, Safety toward Gutey.
The hand wringers at ESPN are spending a lot of time bemoaning the Packers again spurned WRs and AR...even while playing Rodgers' comments logically explains why WR was not drafted in Rd 1. He even said "defense wins championships." Then the ESPN bed wetters said about Championship Defense: "is that even true anymore?"
Of course not...the Rams don't believe in it. 🤷
jannesbjornson
April 29, 2022 at 10:26 am
These guys were brought onboard to plug the leaky ship and hope the other team doesn't burn you for a first down, during crunch time on a 3rd and 8. That particular play broke the spirit of the defense. Now get guys who can blow off the top of the opponents D and an Inline TE who isn't pushing 40, capable of securing the hook zones for the 3rd and five.....first down.
PatrickGB
April 29, 2022 at 08:45 am
Murff, I could not have said it better!
dobber
April 29, 2022 at 08:54 am
When Jahan Dotson went at 16 and then Brown was dealt with TEN taking Burks, my thought was, "this is crazy"...and I'm glad it pushed other talent down the board, but that was a lot of draft capital spent on secondary position players.
WRs got spread around last night. There's still good talent out there. I wans't a big fan of Pickens or Watson in round one where a lot of people were pulling for the Packers to bite, but I like them a lot better in round 2. Price point and value seem to be coming together there, now, and I wouldn't be surprised to see the Packers move up at some point if Pickens is their guy.
I was saying I thought Watson could last late into round 2 or even into round 3--I don't think that will be the case now, but it could still happen. My personal favorite value WR (Skyy Moore) is still out there and might be in the discussion in the 50s. Tolbert, Pierce, Shakir, Austin--the Packers will get a quality pass-catcher or two yet.
Coldworld
April 29, 2022 at 09:53 am
Dotson was the surprise of the night in my view.
Cubbygold
April 29, 2022 at 08:57 am
I get the story that the WR market 'reset' and so now WRs on rookie deals are more valuable. I get it... but then isn't the logic to take a lot of good WRs, not trade everything to get one WR? With Kirk getting a big deal, the market reset for everyone, not just the elite WRs. Seems like the smart play would have been to grab 3 of these WRs by trading back, not by trading up. Unless they have a different opinion about the depth of this WR class than the 'experts', which is definitely possible.
jannesbjornson
April 29, 2022 at 09:55 am
Could have moved down a couple spots from #22 and picked up a pick or two and still snagged Quay. Maybe no takers.
Packer_Fan
April 29, 2022 at 11:32 am
Perfect first day of the draft. Defense wins championships. Lots more talent left. Fir me, WR, EDGE and TE today!
RCPackerFan
April 29, 2022 at 07:12 am
I'm assuming that most fans will not like what the Packers did. I'm assuming most will be upset that they didn't draft a WR or move up for one. With the way the board was falling, I'm good with what they did. The run on WR's went earlier then I expected.
The players they drafted make a lot of sense. We will find out in time if they were the right choices. But I like what they are trying to do. Build up the front 7.
I know a lot of people were questioning ILB. Campbell was the DPOY. Barnes has been a really good find as an UDFA. That being said we could definitely use the upgrade over Barnes. I like Barnes, but if Walker is a stud, we will form one of the the best ILB duo's in the league.
Wyatt fills a need and helps bolster the DL. They have been needing to add to the DL for a while. Clark is a stud. Lowry really played well last year, but tapered off at the end of the year, and I'm not convinced he won't be cut after June. They brought in Reed which will really help. Slaton looks like he could take a big step next year. Add Wyatt to the mix and our DL looks a lot stronger.
I expect the Packers to be on the move today. Hopefully they can go and get the WR they want.
murf7777
April 29, 2022 at 08:11 am
RC...with the addition of Reed and now drafting wyatt cutting Lowry might be in the plan. It opens up some dollars to add another vet WR if that is what they and Rodgers want.
PatrickGB
April 29, 2022 at 08:51 am
Good point. A lot guys get cut during TC and before the season begins. And there is a lot of movement of veterans even before the season begins. So, there is plenty of time to find a vet WR.
jannesbjornson
April 29, 2022 at 10:09 am
They can still draft Hall with the #59 or Alex Wright and put Lowry on the block today? If he stands still in the second round, expect a player trade for a wide. Schneider on Line Seven.
RCPackerFan
April 29, 2022 at 01:35 pm
Murf -
I do wonder if they are considering cutting him. Not saying they will, but i wonder if this was apart of the plan.
COACHROB64
April 29, 2022 at 08:52 am
I'm sure he'll trade up to draft a kicker or something equally stupid.
COACHROB64
April 29, 2022 at 08:53 am
I'm sure he'll trade up to draft a kicker or something equally stupid.
dobber
April 29, 2022 at 09:16 am
"I'm assuming that most fans will not like what the Packers did. I'm assuming most will be upset that they didn't draft a WR or move up for one. "
You can't judge a draft on round 1--unless your team ain't picking. Gotta view it in whole...a lot of the context for the Packers' draft comes tonight.
BruceC1960
April 29, 2022 at 09:41 am
I’m pleasantly surprised at all of the positive reviews this morning. I thought it might be ugly.
Coldworld
April 29, 2022 at 09:52 am
I think we dodged some bullets at WR and took value in areas where we have had an ongoing problem. Not what I expected, beyond the fact that both were on D, but that counts for nothing. The question. Is not did they get my guy but did they obviously improve the team. They did and I think very acutely.
jannesbjornson
April 29, 2022 at 10:16 am
They didn't fit the WCO. The guys he pegged didn't move into the first, so he has a chance to do some dealing, moving up tonight. He should also try to get another two pick and mine the load.
RCPackerFan
April 29, 2022 at 01:41 pm
Its trusting the board. Have to follow the board that they have set up for months.
I think they played it smart. They didn't trade away valuable assets for a WR that they maybe didn't really want. History has told us that WR's in the 2nd round are just as valuable as the first round guys. Hopefully they can position themselves into the right spots tonight to come away with someone they like.
RCPackerFan
April 29, 2022 at 01:38 pm
Agreed. Last night twitter was melting a bit. And listening to some local talk shows, fans are really upset. But listening to them you can tell they have no clue what the draft is really about.
RCPackerFan
April 29, 2022 at 01:37 pm
Dobber - exactly right.
One thing to keep in mind with the draft is watch how the player that they pick can fit onto the team. How they fit in the scheme they plan to run. Listening to things today, it seems like Walker is not just an ILB for them. It sounds like they will be kind of using him all over. Possibly as a blitzer/outside rusher at times as well.
I can't wait for tonight to see what they do. I would love to see them add a couple of pass catchers. Whether its WR or WR and TE, I would love it!
golfpacker1
April 29, 2022 at 07:32 am
So its not ok to reach for a really good wide receiver but it is ok to reach for the 5th best inside linebacker. Well that is the dumbest thing I have ever read. I like this linebacker but at 53 not 22. In fact we could have gotten both of these players in the 2nd round. It would not have been a reach to take Watson or Pickens at 28. Either would have been our #1 receiver. We would have been better off trading both picks back into the 2nd round where we could have gotten them or players at POSITIONS of NEED and scored 2 or 3 more picks. As much as I did not want an edge rusher in the 1st round the really smart pick at 22 should have been Jermain Johnson-Fla State edge that could have gone in top ten. I would have been disappointed but I could see that. Not a 2nd round linebacker after ignoring the position for the last 5 years, If nothing else why not trade 22 for Hollywood Brown? That would have made more sense. WOW. In Gutey we trust??? We had a big advantage with 2 picks in 1st and 2nd rounds and 11 overall, now we can waste picks because we are now FORCED to trade up to get players at postions of need!!
murf7777
April 29, 2022 at 08:12 am
Golf,...you never know where you might be able to get a player. Gutey takes the guy he wants regardless of where mocks show. He is proven to do very well in the 1st two rounds, so no need to question his scouting staff or him. Just have to trust their judgement.
LambeauPlain
April 29, 2022 at 08:29 am
I care more about how prospects perform, not where they were drafted.
The Packers are just 3 years removed from their D being ground to dust by the niners in the 2019 NFCCG. Those days are over. The Packer D is perhaps the best since Fritz Schumer's group led the Packers to a Lombardi during the 1996 season. And it is better (on paper) than the 2010 D when Capers was installing his exotic 3-4 (before it got stale and opponents figured it out).
I think today is going to be a good day for the O.
murf7777
April 29, 2022 at 09:29 am
Lambeau...good points and Gutey has been proving that for a few years now with Gary, Stokes, Dillon and to an extent Savage all players mocks had drafted lower than when Gutey picked them. He has a plan.
HarryHodag
April 29, 2022 at 08:36 am
Don't believe the hype from the national media dopes. The difference between a second round receiver and a first round receiver this year is....next to nothing.
Walker and Wyatt likely would have been gone by the Packers picks in the second round. So you lose badly needed draft picks to move up for one player?
Sorry to burst your bubble, but the Packers can sit back and get two really good players, including receivers, without selling the farm to get a dozen eggs.
dobber
April 29, 2022 at 09:18 am
"the Packers can sit back and get two really good players, including receivers, without selling the farm to get a dozen eggs."
I'll have to remember that metaphor, Harry. I like that one.
dobber
April 29, 2022 at 09:21 am
"It would not have been a reach to take Watson or Pickens at 28. Either would have been our #1 receiver."
Neither of which are off the board, yet, and there's plenty of players on that tier of WR. With all the WR who changed hands last night, I think that next tier of player lasts into round 3.
" In fact we could have gotten both of these players in the 2nd round."
Yawn....
Lazy and completely unsupportable argument.
" If nothing else why not trade 22 for Hollywood Brown? That would have made more sense."
Double-yawn.
Coldworld
April 29, 2022 at 09:59 am
How do you calculate him as the 5th best linebacker? Because you read it in some pundits draft or break down? Give me some reasons who fits us better and who might be overall better and I might take that seriously. I can think of a couple that one could make an argument for generally, but neither actually fit us well. If you can’t, then probably best not to get fired up by something you read.
As to Wyatt, I’m surprised he got as far down as he did. He’s great value at 28. Neither were picks I predicted, but I can’t deny the fit or value if they live up to expectations.
stockholder
April 29, 2022 at 07:34 am
The only thing we got from this draft was Flexibility. None of the first rounders will start. And you can say Defense wins championships. But this isn't a championship team. We will now let the officials decide who wins. Because the power of this offense is too predictable. I am happy Gutey didn't trade up. And it doesn't bother me he reached. The draft went just how I thought it would. ( Except for the Packers! ) But the mistake "still", is not getting a Nelson, Cobb, or Finley. Gutey knew the cupboard is bare. And we will continue to waste Rodgers talent by not giving him the weapons he needs. So expect more Rodgers hate. More Drama. And management will be using the excuse we lost Adams. And pointing at Rodgers. The voice of the packers is now Defense. And the hate for Rodgers will grow.
Todd
April 29, 2022 at 09:45 am
“The mistake ‘still' is not getting a Nelson, Cobb, or Finley”? They weren’t first round picks either. Maybe the next Nelson, Cobb, or Finley will be found in the second or third rounds like they were?
stockholder
April 29, 2022 at 08:02 am
We can only hope. But the story of every draft is they drop for a reason. You now will loose the players between #28 and #53. Thats a big drop. We NEED a POSITION!
dobber
April 29, 2022 at 09:52 am
"You now will lose the players between #28 and #53."
<<corrected for spelling>>
There's nothing new there. They had 28 and 53 for a long time...and nothing in between. What's your point?
stockholder
April 29, 2022 at 10:12 am
Yes my little spell checker. I did hit the o twice. But maybe it should have 4 Os.
dobber
April 29, 2022 at 09:19 am
They already have Cobb.
stockholder
April 29, 2022 at 10:15 am
Cobb has lost his speed. In fact the whole WRs group, has No speed. If you want shake and Bake. It will always be 1 and done.
croatpackfan
April 29, 2022 at 03:57 pm
I agree stockholders. We will aleays be at least one game short to SB. And that will be like that as long as Diva is at the helm!
stockholder
April 29, 2022 at 01:13 pm
And that won't make Rodgers a hero again. Remember This: If Rodgers doesn't win a super-bowl again. He will never be a hero in the eyes of the fans. Management wants it that way!
dobber
April 29, 2022 at 01:30 pm
This might be one of the dumbest things you've ever posted.
Coldworld
April 29, 2022 at 10:05 am
“We will now let the officials decide who wins. Because the power of this defense is too predictable.”
I’m lost for words
stockholder
April 29, 2022 at 10:19 am
Wrong spin.
Cubbygold
April 29, 2022 at 07:36 am
It seems like the walker pick accomplishes many things for GB, and I'm glad they made that pick rather than a pure pass rushing OLB.
GB has talented pass rushers, but when you have a bunch of DBs on the field along with a Lowry, teams can focus on double teaming a Kenny Clark or Z or Gary. Or... Just try to run the ball in the opposite direction of KC.
Seems like this pick, along with Wyatt, aren't done with the idea that either will have a super impressive stat line, but that they'll allow GBs stars to be more impactful.
stockholder
April 29, 2022 at 08:04 am
The strength of the draft was WR and edge. Gutey still goes against the strengths for the flexibility.
Cubbygold
April 29, 2022 at 08:49 am
The strength of the draft IS wide receiver, and the draft isn't over.
I have no doubt Gute would have selected different players if he had the first and second picks of the draft.
If the talent gap between the #4 WR and the #16 WR in this draft is small, then it makes perfect sense to take one of the best DT's in the draft over the #8 WR or whatever, knowing that you have multiple picks coming up.
dobber
April 29, 2022 at 09:22 am
You can't argue with a brick wall.
egbertsouse
April 29, 2022 at 07:58 am
I have no beef about drafting either of these guys, they should be decent players which is all you can expect at the bottom of the round. I think Gute reached for Walker, he could have traded back and got him in early round 2, but that’s nitpicking . At least he didn’t draft a 5’10” , 187 pound CB to ride the bench for 2 years.
tincada
April 29, 2022 at 09:36 am
Ha ha ha. You're so right. Your hero only gave up two picks to draft a QB to sit on the bench for 3 or 4 years.
Coldworld
April 29, 2022 at 10:15 am
I was quite happy with the results last time we did that.
mrtundra
April 29, 2022 at 08:17 am
I love the two picks on the defensive side of the ball. WRs Pickens, Watson, Moore, Metchie III, Tolbert and Pierce are not 1st round worthy picks. Too many teams gave up too much capital, to move up to grab one of those 1st round receivers. Gute has a plan and Rodgers is down with it. We'll get our WRs and TEs, but it will be on Gute's timetable and off his big board. And another thing, we are not done drafting for our defense, yet. We still should look at Safety and CB and maybe another LB. There are 6 rounds left to go, in this draft. We'll see who Gute values and where, soon enough. In Gute we Trust! GPG!!!
COACHROB64
April 29, 2022 at 08:55 am
I trust Gute to ruin the org., chase off Rodgers, and maybe trade up to get a kicker.
Yuck yuck, we had to keep the G on their helmet. Idiot.
dobber
April 29, 2022 at 09:25 am
It's a little early to be hitting the bottle, isn't it?
COACHROB64
April 29, 2022 at 11:23 am
Arod is down with it? Really? FACTS: Weve drafted ONE WR in 3 years, Amari Rodgers.
We have traded up to get a a bench warming QB, and drafted a punter who was nuts.
Fire Gutekunst. There is no plan whatsoever.
Coldworld
April 29, 2022 at 01:51 pm
AR could have taken less money and given Adams reasons to stay. In fact it sounds like AR is now saying he told Adams his plans while Adams let him believe he was coming back. Adams chose to leave knowing Rodgers was returning thinking he’d have Adams back, at least that’s what Rodgers suggested yesterday as I read it.
Rodgers says he signed before he found out Adams wasn’t coming. I guess Adams was less Rodgers friend than Rodgers thought and quite possibly the team was deluded too. Did we pay Rodgers on that premise and then get just as blindsided? Perhaps we regret that and perhaps more drama to come.
This team is increasingly making Rodgers look like a very expensive luxury in a team built for his successor. I have a feeling we might have more picks if Adams had been more upfront with either AR or the team.
jcod3
April 29, 2022 at 08:19 am
Totally agree with you analysis!
pantz_bURp
April 29, 2022 at 08:33 am
I am more defense minded than offense, so quite pleased with the picks. And, maybe we have a DC that can teach them up, scheme them right and the young men have the desire, humility and talent to play their role the best they can.
That's all I can ask (for now)...Go Pack Go!
4thand1
April 29, 2022 at 08:39 am
Driver 7th round, Cobb 2nd, Jordy 2nd, Adams 2nd , Jennings 2nd, James Jones 3rd. A rookie WR wouldn't have put the Packers over the top, wouldn't replace Adams production. This defense will be top 10 for sure, maybe top 5 by the end of the season. Go get Landry, please he's there for the taking and draft WR 2nd round. 9 picks left.
Cubbygold
April 29, 2022 at 08:53 am
What's up with Will Fuller? He was dominant at times for the Texans, even with the crappy team around him. I was surprised to see him still available too.
4thand1
April 29, 2022 at 09:24 am
Fuller personal problems?
dobber
April 29, 2022 at 10:07 am
Can't stay healthy. Have read that football isn't that important to him.
COACHROB64
April 29, 2022 at 08:47 am
I guess Gute didnt actually WATCH the playoffs last year. So Aaron will hand the ball off three times since there is no one to throw to, and then our sometimes great defense will come on the field. Another slap in the face to Aaron and the coaching staff.
Cubbygold
April 29, 2022 at 08:52 am
Devonte Adam's final play in a packers uniform was a chuck-it-up deep toss into triple coverage, while Lazard ran wide open in the middle of the field. That's the uncomfortable truth for the 'pay aaron whatever he wants and draft all the wide receivers' crowd.
LambeauPlain
April 29, 2022 at 08:53 am
53 yards on O the 2nd half trying to throw to a double/triple covered Adams over and over and over again.
Did you watch the playoffs? The run game was ignored in the 2nd half. I wish there were more chain moving handoffs. The D got gassed with the O going 3 and out.
PackfanNY
April 29, 2022 at 09:06 am
That’s weird, I didn’t realize the draft was over? I mean no good players ever come out of Rounds 2,3,4, 5,6,7! I also didn’t realize the off-season was over! I wonder who we are playing this coming Sunday?
dobber
April 29, 2022 at 09:57 am
Yeah, because the coaching staff never has any input on draft picks...
Do you sell all your stocks if they don't all perform on the first day?
COACHROB64
April 29, 2022 at 11:28 am
Here is FACTS:
2021 Amari Rodgers
2020 - no WR
2019 - no WR
Do you hang on to stocks for 3 years when they tank?
The_Baloney_Stops_Here
April 29, 2022 at 11:47 am
Here ARE facts. $50 says you dont have full set of teeth.
LeotisHarris
April 29, 2022 at 08:55 am
Good on Gute, man. I didn't think he'd do it, but he stuck with the picks he had and got some studs. Comparing the desperation of other teams in the first round (hello, Saints) to Gute's level-headed moves makes me even more excited for tonight.
The damn Lions didn't hurt themselves. The NFC Norris continues to get better around us, albeit on paper at this point.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
April 29, 2022 at 10:32 am
Leotis,
My feelings exactly about Detroit as well! They bear watching and they certainly are going to be a team climbing the rankings. I like their physical play and they challenge the Packers game after game even without the talent they added in the draft so far.
tincada
April 29, 2022 at 09:20 am
If you poor Cheeseheads haven't yet figured out that BG is an idiot I guess you never will. I just love how the 3 stooges are building a dysfunctional team in GB that I continually laugh at. Enjoy the mediocrity in GB.
4thand1
April 29, 2022 at 09:26 am
you need oiling tinman. Who is your great team, if it's in the North, it SUCKS.
The_Baloney_Stops_Here
April 29, 2022 at 11:46 am
Must be a bears fan. Had no 1st round pick to celebrate so you come here to embarrass yourself lol
Coldworld
April 29, 2022 at 01:58 pm
I’d always assumed he was a Viking, but he’s always been here trying to compensate. You may be right, he’s a Bear. We may well have a better D than them this year. He needs something to salve his behind.
Since'61
April 29, 2022 at 09:36 am
So far so good with this draft after Round 1. We finally have another DL who can take pressure off of Clark and create interior pressure on the QB. Walker has excellent physical characteristics and we finally have 2 ILBs who can play sideline to sideline. Walker may not start early in the season but he will be rotated in and I expect he will make an impact on our ST coverage teams as well.
Our defense will be improved. Today I expect to be a day for the offense with WRs, and a TE. But with Gute you never know. He may go for a Safety today to complete the defense. We'll see. Thanks Since '61
4thand1
April 29, 2022 at 09:37 am
It seems the same shitty teams are picking in the top 10 year after year. The Packers have proved a great QB makes the WR position better. The trouble with the Packers is it takes so M Fing long to fix glaring problems, defending the middle of the field and ST's. The middle is taken care of, the ST's only has one way to go, it couldn't get worse.
dobber
April 29, 2022 at 09:55 am
"The Packers have proved a great QB makes the WR position better. "
At least, that's what he's getting paid to do...
NitschkeFromTheGrave
April 29, 2022 at 09:39 am
You will RARELY see me comment or get too excited about "Draft". But.... These two guys from GA are exactly what we need. I think they "could" have immediate impact.
I honestly believe the Draft is about Linemen and Defense and all the rest is Lottery, luck and years of maturing and development. With that said there are always the Barry Sanders type exceptions to the rule.
WTG Gute.... 2 very good selections in Round 1
coolhand
April 29, 2022 at 09:50 am
I was both surprised nd happy about the picks last night. The only WR I thought was worth a 1st round pick was Burks, but he was gone at 22. I thought Gute might go DL and Edge, but I like the LB pick. This guy is fast and a hard hitter. Wyatt is a freak of nature, and fast for a DL, I think he will be a huge surprise. Now, on to the 2nd round, where I would like to see a WR and an OT. Go for it Gute!
DTowleJr
April 29, 2022 at 09:58 am
What Brian Gutekunst did on Day 1 of the 2022 NFL Draft was be patient, watch the board, chuckle at the reaches, and then grab 2 players that cemented the defense - and all that without batting an eyelash. When he faced the media for his presser, he was all smiles. And why not. Other GMs had spent significant time and energy reaching for the stars. At the end of the day, Brian had made a difference without breaking the bank. He grabbed 2 players in the 1st round who, when they pan out, the Packers will be able to keep for 5 years.
Now it's on to Day 2. Perhaps Brian and company will wait until their picks at #53 and #59 for wide receivers, or maybe he will jump up and take one... or not. Again, he waits to see how the Board develops. That is why he is the shot caller - and why we all are not.
dobber
April 29, 2022 at 10:16 am
The hope is that he won't deal added day 2 picks to move up. I think that third is too valuable to lose.
That limits how much trade-up they can actually do. I think there's still plenty of depth in the WR pool yet.
KnockTheSnotOutOfYou
April 29, 2022 at 10:37 am
I agree Dobber but I also think it always depends on who is falling and available and where they might be in the draft. If he only jumps a few spots to get ahead of another team to select someone he really wants no big deal as we have a lot of draft capital. Having said that I believe there is a lot of talent available at both 53 & 59, as well as 92. Lots of talent available! However he decides to go I'm good with it.
dobber
April 29, 2022 at 01:35 pm
I think that's the big issue: everyone's going to be anticipating the Packers looking WR, and will try to get ahead of them, so BG might be forced to move up a slot or two just to protect his ability to get the WR he wants.
Coldworld
April 29, 2022 at 02:03 pm
I think they can get contributors in round 3 too. However, I think you will see a run on thinner positions first. There’s a huge amount of talent out there for day 2. That’s without assuming some QBs being taken.
stockholder
April 29, 2022 at 10:53 am
I don't agree. He must trade up. Otherwise he gets more defense like 2012.
michael562
April 29, 2022 at 01:22 pm
"Must" that's pretty harsh, you must be his boss.
COACHROB64
April 29, 2022 at 11:31 am
or maybe like 2019 and 202 he wont draft ANY WR's.
Maybe he'll trade up to get a kicker.
The_Baloney_Stops_Here
April 29, 2022 at 11:43 am
Absolutely love the 1st round picks. Now lets go get David Bell and Drake Jackson in the 2nd round followed by oline in the 3rd.
frankthefork
April 29, 2022 at 02:14 pm
Agreed; so glad we didn't trade up for either. As for today-That will work if we don't trade up or out of 53 + 59. I'm okay with it, but also like Petite-Frere OT and Dulcich TE; or WR Bell/Ross and McBride DulcichTE, but the edge is more important...just wish we had more day 2 picks where the value and quality of players are still good.
Cliches are truths...defense wins championships!
LambeauPlain
April 29, 2022 at 11:46 am
When was the last time the Packers had players at all 3 levels of the D from the same college program?
Wyatt, Walker and Stokes....Tres Amigos!
stockholder
April 29, 2022 at 12:05 pm
Thought you Wyatt Lovers might be interested in this.
Wyatt (6-foot-3, 304) started 25 games for Georgia and played well, but there are some obvious concerns.
One, he had just five sacks in 49 career games. Two, he was arrested and charged with three misdemeanors in February 2020
after an altercation with a woman at her apartment. The chargers were ultimately dropped. And three, he's already 24 years old.
When the Packers traded away Davante Adams, they seemed like a lock to draft a wide receiver in the first round. But that
didn't happen. Maybe Wyatt will work out great for them, but taking him here feels like an unnecessary gamble.
Grade: C-
ImaPayne
April 29, 2022 at 12:49 pm
Why a 24 year old and why a guy who wasnt a star of the GA team? I think he would make a fine back up and should have been a 2 or 3 round pick. One is a stretch and then some.
I think the pack passed on receivers in the first because those guys will demand big money due to the Adams and Hill contracts.
There is no guarantee any of the better receivers will be there when the pack pick. other teams are in a position having filled defenses to go after them and many pick way before we do.
stockholder
April 29, 2022 at 01:01 pm
This was a Gm financial move. Reed and Lowry will be Free Agents next year. Don't plan on their return.
Coldworld
April 29, 2022 at 02:07 pm
Look harder at what he is and his length and physical ability and upside. He is a younger Campbell type with upside who can cover and tackle. His fellow ILB is not a physical fit for that and likely wasn’t an option for us.
ImaPayne
April 29, 2022 at 12:45 pm
A well balanced team with defense, offense, special teams and kicking win championships. Period. All we did last night is spend first round capital of back up players. Could have easily done this is round three and four.
Neither of out picks are that great, certainly they arent first rounders so why after all the analysis and planning did Gutt come up with these guys? Oh, they looked good at the combine. Ya but they didnt look good in game film, thats what really counts.
LambeauPlain
April 29, 2022 at 01:23 pm
Savage's agent confirms the Packers will pick up his 5th year at a cost of just under $8 mil. Still think a Safety is on the draft dance card but maybe not until the 4th round now?
Gary is also getting his 5th year deal...just under $11 mil.
So these moves buy some time to get Alexander extended first...after the draftees, UDFAs and/or FAs are acquired.
How quickly the D has been transformed by Gutey! All three guys are going to like the two Georgia "dawgs"!
So is Barry, who was hired into a great situation. I wonder if Jim Leonard has any regrets.
Kenny, Reed, Wyatt, Gary, Preston, Campbell, Walker, Alexander, Stokes, Amos, Savage (and Douglas or Alexander in nickel) is quite a lineup.
Team Gutey acquired 11 of the 12 top D players.
Coldworld
April 29, 2022 at 02:10 pm
Good news on the 5th year! Gary too (unsurprisingly).
tincada
April 29, 2022 at 02:32 pm
Wait a minute. Cheese heads, where's Darren Waller? Oh yeah in LV! More BS rumors promoted by the 3 stooges and you folks swallowed it again.
Coldworld
April 29, 2022 at 02:46 pm
Good. Going to have to try harder.
LambeauPlain
April 29, 2022 at 04:50 pm
A lot harder.
SpikeHyzer
April 29, 2022 at 06:03 pm
Well, it seems this is a divisive start to the draft for the fans here on Cheesehead.
Thanks for making it interesting everyone.
I think you will be happy in the long run, especially after some good choices in the 2nd and 3rd.
It was all about how the board fell and it fell weird.
tincada
May 09, 2022 at 11:11 am
" Defense wins championships " Maybe Championships, but not so many Super Bowls. Dream on Cheeseheads. Keep that bar low and it'll all be good.