Packers: 3 positions that still need attention after 2021 NFL Draft
The Green Bay Packers may have reached for a few of their 2021 NFL Draft selections, but they did address their needs in a big way. Entering the annual event, defensive line, cornerback, offensive line and wide receiver were near or at the top of their list. It’s safe to say they soundly addressed all but the defensive line.
Green Bay’s resources are still extremely limited and they’re running out of options to create more cap space while also needing to deal with this Aaron Rodgers’ saga hanging over their heads. However, there are still some concrete ways they could create additional cap space. If they choose to do so, these three positions still need some TLC on the roster.
The Green Bay Packers addressed a number of key needs in the 2021 NFL Draft, but must give attention to these three positions.
Packers’ unaddressed need: Defensive Line
The Packers have been thin on the defensive line for a few years now–ever since they re-signed Dean Lowry and Tyler Lancaster, two players who have failed to live up to expectations. They are largely bringing the gang back for 2021, minus Montravius Adams, and didn’t add a top pick in the draft despite Christian Barmore being available in the first round. Their sole selection at the position was Tedarrell Slaton, a run-stopping big man to clog the middle. They could use another serviceable big body or add some much-needed skill and depth.
Packers’ unaddressed need: Inside Linebacker
As it stands, Green Bay is entering the 2021 season extremely raw and inexperienced at inside linebacker. Second-year guys Kamal Martin and Krys Barnes are set to battle it out at the position. Both guys impressed in their rookie seasons while flashing the ability to become a starting-caliber NFL player at some point in their career. They also struggled with injuries and had plenty of head-scratching moments. Green Bay could use a veteran to steady the position.
Packers’ unaddressed need: Offensive Tackle
The Packers did add three offensive linemen for the second straight year–center Josh Myers in the second round, Royce Newman in the fourth and Cole Van Lanen in the sixth. However, all three are probably better suited on the interior with Newman and Van Lanen potentially having the ability to bounce to the outside if necessary.
Next. Packers: One pro and con for each draft pick. dark
David Bakhtiari is recovering from a torn ACL at the end of December and the front office thinks he’ll be ready but it’s far too early to tell. Even if he returns in time for Week 1, the Packers could use another serviceable swing tackle in the event of another injury to either Bakhtiari or Billy Turner. They’ve done so in the past and could look to add another Jared Veldheer.