The Green Bay Packers have claimed for years that their strategy in the draft is to select the best available on the board. There are countless moves that demonstrate this strategy – drafting Aaron Rodgers, Jordan Love, Eddie Lacy, etc. However, the Packers real strategy is to draft the best available player of need.
A prime example of this process are the steps the Packers took when the team selected LB Edgerrin Cooper in the 2024 draft. It was well known that the Packers needed to address the linebacker position. On day 2 of the 2024 draft, Green Bay held the 41st overall pick. When the Packers were on the clock at 41, Cooper was available. However, Green Bay traded the 41st pick to the New Orleans Saints for the 45th overall pick, a 2024 fifth round pick, and a 2024 sixth round pick. At pick number 45, the Green Bay Packers selected LB Edgerrin Cooper from Texas A&M. Green Bay got their guy as well as two additional picks.
The two obvious examples of the Packers deploying this draft strategy are their selections of Aaron Rodgers and Jordan Love. A quarterback was not the top beed when Green Bay selected both Rodgers and Love but the organization saw the opportunity to draft two high ceilings players who were available when the Packers were on the clock. Taking chances like this is why the Packers draft strategy makes sense.
Expect the Packers to Use This Strategy Wisely
The Packers will look to target the defensive tackle, edge, cornerback, and wide receiver positions in the upcoming draft. The highest priority for Green Bay is the defensive line. It is likely that 2025 will be Kenny Clark’s last season in Green Bay. Devonte Wyatt is entering the last year of his rookie deal. There are serious questions marks and a lot of uncertainty at the defensive tackle position going forward for the Packers.
By balancing need and the best available, the Packers create opportunities for themselves. It gives the team the ability trade up or back or stay status quo. The Packers will leave the draft with the players they need at the positions of need but they may not draft a DT, CB, or WR right away. It will happen through the entire draft when the board allows them to be the most selective.
Expect the Gutekunst to be active in the 2025 draft. If Green Bay sees that there is plenty of value still on the board, do not be surprised if Gutekunst trades back. The defensive tackle class in this draft is very deep. The wide receiver class is solid as well. The Packers will have options which is why Green Bay will prioritize the intent to draft the best available.
