Packers: 3 players who could be surprising first-round picks

Green Bay Packers’ general manager Brian Gutekunst always keeps fans on their toes when it comes to NFL Draft time. He’s been unpredictable throughout his tenure, especially in the first round, and isn’t afraid to pull the trigger on a trade or multiple trades even. That means everything we think we know about the Packers’ draft plan goes out the window on Draft day.

This year, we think the Packers will take a best player available approach and select the top-ranked player on their Big Board regardless of position. Sure, Green Bay has specific needs such as cornerback and defensive tackle. However, Gutekunst and his staff have worked hard this offseason to patch up any glaring holes so they can take a bigger picture approach.

There are a number of prospects projected to be available at the end of the first round, but as we’ve seen before, anything can happen in those war rooms. Let’s take a look at three players who could surprisingly hear their names called by Green Bay on Thursday night.

Keep your eye on these three players who could be surprising first-round picks for the Green Bay Packers in the 2021 NFL Draft.

Jaelan Phillips, EDGE, Miami

With Za’Darius Smith, Preston Smith and Rashan Gary on the roster, it would be difficult to swallow the Packers using a first-round pick on another edge rusher. However, Preston Smith’s time in the green and gold is limited due to his massive contract and it’s unclear how much longer the Packers will want to pay Za’Darius Smith. That means adding another (cheaper) edge rusher could be in their plans.

When it comes to talent alone, Jaelan Phillips is a clear first-round player. He’s dropping due to medical concerns and the notoriously passive Packers’ medical staff would have to give the front office the green light to select him. He’s a great athlete, works hard, and can get after quarterbacks. That would fit well in Green Bay, and if he can stay healthy, he’d be a steal at no. 29.

Levi Onwuzurike, IDL, Washington

Although the Packers have a clear need to add talent along the defensive line, this is the worst possible draft class to do so considering the lack of talent at the position. Christian Barmore is an option to potentially trade up for, however, the Packers could also go with the second-best defensive lineman in the is class in Levi Onwuzurike. Onwuzurike fits the athletic profile the Packers prefer but needs some major coaching in his technique.

Samuel Cosmi, OT, Texas

There are a number of projected offensive tackles who should be available at the end of the first and Samuel Cosmi is certainly one of them. However, he’s probably more thought of as a second-rounder meaning it would be a surprise if the Packers nab him on Day 1. Cosmi would help the Packers right away and be a potential long-term solution as a solid player at right tackle.