Every concept is different, but the Green Bay Packers have shown a pattern under Brian Gutekunst, general manager. In each of his first three drafts, Gutekunst traded for a player in the first round.
How could an exchange for Gutekunst and the Packers look during the 2021 draft?
Here’s a seven-round Packers mockery, with a big trade in the first round to start the proceedings:
1.21 (trade with IND): OT Teven Jenkins, Oklahoma State: The exchange sends two fourth rounds (4,135, 4,142) and number 29 overall to the picky Indianapolis Colts. The final reward is Jenkins, an ideal prospect for the right approach with size, elite athletics and a robust playing style. Probably Day 1 appetizer.
2.62: S Jevon Holland, Oregon: This choice is just as much an investment at Cornerback and Linebacker as it is in safety. Holland, who can play deep and as a sub-pack linebacker, could unlock the versatility of Darnell Savage as a do-it-all ‘star’ defender for Joe Barry. There are plenty of snaps available for a capable third safety, especially if Savage plays more in the lock.
3.92: WR Nico Collins, Michigan: Big and fast, just like the packers like receivers. Win vertically. Start blocks. The Packers probably love him.
5,173: C Drew Dalman, Stanford: A little undersized, but tough, smart and athletic. The Packers won gold with Corey Linsley in the fifth round in 2014. They could try it again seven years later with a similar player.
5,178: LB Derrick Barnes, Purdue: Eventually, the Packers will make big hits on one of these mid-round linebackers. Barnes has started three seasons and is 238 pounds athletic enough.
6,214: RB Elijah Mitchell, Louisiana: Good size, great athletics, experience to do virtually anything. Sounds like a great Jamaal Williams replacement.
6,220: DL Ta’Quon Graham, Texas: Ultra-long defensive line prospect with elite Test numbers. Worth the gamble here. Possible future replacement for Dean Lowry.
7,256: WR Jalen Camp, Georgia Tech: Elite athlete who possibly contributes to special teams. Standard seventh round dart throw.
Thoughts: Loving the additions along the offensive line, which remains a major force, and working with Holland on Savage could unlock anything the Packers want to do in the secondary. Do not like not getting a real cornerback or immediate help along the defensive line. Betting on great athletes is usually a great way to find at least one diamond in the rough.