3 surprise players Packers could draft in first round of 2022 NFL Draft
There are surprises in every Draft and the Green Bay Packers seem to be at the heart of them in one way, shape, or form. It’s clear general manager Brian Gutekunst works from his own board and isn’t afraid to take chances as he sees fit.
This has led to some harsh criticism on Draft day, but the positive results are beginning to pile up. Gutekunst and company need to hit a few more home runs this year which means they could zig where others thought they should zag.
Let’s take a look at three players who might not be at the top of Packers fans’ radar, but whom Green Bay could select in the first round.
The Green Bay Packers could shock the world by selecting any of these three prospects in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft.
Jameson Williams, WR, Alabama
Jameson Williams would be an absolute steal for the Packers. He’s one of the best wide receiver prospects in this draft, is fast as lightning, and a home run threat every single time he touches the rock. So, what’s there not to like?
He tore his ACL in the National Championship game and could miss all or most of his rookie season. That might not gel with the Packers who need to win now while Aaron Rodgers is still on the squad. However, they’ve taken the long-term approach when it comes to the draft and could continue to do so with this selection.
Bernhard Raimann, OT, Central Michigan
After releasing Billy Turner, Green Bay needs to figure out a plan at right tackle. The good news is they have a couple of options in Elgton Jenkins, Yosh Nijman and a potential first-round pick.
There are a few offensive linemen who could be available, but it would be surprising if they went with Bernhard Raimann. Raimann was a zero-star prospect out of high school and has to work and grind for everything he’s earned. He’ll be 25-years-old soon and doesn’t have a lot of experience at the position or against great competition. There’s a lot to like, but this is a risky pick as well.
Nik Bonitto, Edge, Oklahoma
The Packers need to add an edge rusher and could certainly do early in the draft. However, Nik Bonitto in the first round would be a major surprise to everybody involved.
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Bonitto would add some pass-rushing oomph when spelling Preston Smith and Rashan Gary, giving Green Bay a nice three-man rotation in that aspect. He’s quick off the line of scrimmage and can beat tackles around the edge in a hurry. However, he has a lot to work on. Once an offensive lineman gets their hands on him, he’s done for. He doesn’t have good size, strength, or length for the position which makes it difficult for him to get off blocks and provide run support. The Packers would have to think he can develop certain parts of his game if they make him one of their top picks.