Final predictions for Packers in first round of 2024 NFL draft (2024)

Nov 27, 2021; Durham, North Carolina, USA; Duke Blue Devils offensive tackle Graham Barton (62) celebrates a point during the first half of the game against the Miami Hurricanes at Wallace Wade Stadium. at Wallace Wade Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jaylynn Nash-USA TODAY Sports

I’m predicting a small trade up the board, so I gave myself two options for a target: Cooper DeJean or Graham Barton. Both check the big boxes of age (21), versatility (multi-position potential) and elite athleticism (RAS of 9.8 or higher). Both could solve immediate or long term roster needs. Both could be instant impact players. Both should have high floors, and both are easily projectable to the next level. I just can’t decide which is the better fit. I think the Packers want one of the two and will do what is necessary to make it happen on Thursday night, even if it means paying a small price to move up. Only six drafts in, Brian Gutekunst already has a history of moving up in the first round.

Oct 8, 2022; Tucson, Arizona, USA; Arizona Wildcats offensive lineman Jordan Morgan (77) against the Oregon Ducks at Arizona Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

In a world where everyone is mocking Cooper DeJean to the Packers, I think he will be off the board before they get a chance to pick. Therefore, I am going with Morgan, an excellent fit for this offensive line, as he could compete for immediate snaps at tackle or guard. All signs point toward there being a run on offensive linemen in the first round, and something tells me Brian Gutekunst will want to snag one.

Sep 2, 2023; Norman, Oklahoma, USA; Oklahoma Sooners offensive lineman Tyler Guyton (60) in action against the Arkansas State Red Wolves at Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

What kind of ‘Packers shortlist’ advocate would I be if I didn’t pick Tyler Guyton? When we look at past trends and thresholds that Brian Gutekunst has often stuck to in the first round, Guyton checks all the boxes. He has great size, is an excellent athlete, plays a premier position – and one of need for the Packers – and is still just 21 years old. On top of that, he participated in the Senior Bowl and took an official pre-draft visit as many recent Packers’ draft picks have.

Iowa defensive back Cooper DeJean (3) lines up during a NCAA Big Ten Conference football game against Northwestern, Saturday, Oct. 29, 2022, at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.

You tired of this yet? Sometimes the best fits are the most logical. If DeJean is still on the board he checks all the boxes with his athleticism, versatility, playmaking ability, special teams experience and age. It wouldn’t be shocking to see Brian Gutekunst make a move up to ensure he gets his desired target.

ARLINGTON, TX – APRIL 26: A video board displays the text “THE PICK IS IN” for the Green Bay Packers during the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft at AT&T Stadium on April 26, 2018 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)

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