UTSA Roadrunners

Green Bay Packers draft capsule

Published Apr. 22, 2018 12:28 p.m. ET

14. GREEN BAY PACKERS (7-9)

LAST SEASON: Missed playoffs for first time since 2008 after quarterback Aaron Rodgers missed two months with broken collarbone. His absence exposed how much team's limitations could be covered up by two-time NFL MVP. Davante Adams eclipsed Jordy Nelson as team's top receiver, but signing of tight end Martellus Bennett turned bad and he was cut at midseason. Injuries ravaged cornerback position for second straight year, while LB Clay Matthews and edge rush couldn't generate consistent pressure. Second-year players Kenny Clark and Dean Lowry joined Mike Daniels as bright spots on defensive line, and Blake Martinez turned into tackling machine at inside linebacker. But subpar season overall led coach Mike McCarthy to overhaul staff.

THEY NEED: OLB, CB, WR, S, RG, RT, TE

THEY DON'T NEED: QB, LT, DL, RB

POSSIBLE FIRST PICK: DE Marcus Davenport, UTSA; DE-LB Harold Landry, Boston College; CB Denzel Ward, Ohio State; CB Mike Hughes, UCF; CB Josh Jackson, Iowa; S Minkah Fitpatrick, Alabama; S Derwin James, Florida State.

OUTLOOK: Longtime personnel executive Brian Gutekunst enters first draft as general manager. Packers don't often pick this high in first round, so Gutekunst has opportunity to take immediate contributor on defense led by new coordinator Mike Pettine that needs more playmakers. Pass rush could use infusion with Matthews turning 31 this year. Safeties Fitzpatrick and James could provide versatility, especially following departures of Micah Hyde and Morgan Burnett in free agency over last two years.

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