Pros and cons to Packers 2022 NFL Draft class
With the 2022 NFL Draft completed, it’s time for everybody to overreact and overanalyze how the Green Bay Packers did. Although it will take a few years to determine how the players develop, we must share our immediate reactions about how this class will alter the 2022 landscape.
In all seriousness, it appears the Packers did pretty well for themselves. After a frustrating first round that saw Green Bay take two defensive players and zero wide receivers, they recovered nicely from the public’s perception, take that as you will, and had a very good draft.
Let’s check out the pros and cons of their overall draft.
With the 2022 NFL Draft in the rearview mirror, let’s check out the pros and cons of the Green Bay Packers’ entire draft class.
Pro: Improved Defense
Green Bay went defense with their first two picks and selected inside linebacker Quay Walker and defensive lineman Devonte Wyatt. Both guys should be able to be immediate contributors and help this unit take the next step.
They didn’t come back to the position until the fifth round when they got outside linebacker Kinglsey Engagbare. Engagbare didn’t test well at the combine which is what caused him to drop, but he was very productive and will contribute nicely to the Packers’ edge rotation. they also added linebacker/safety Tariq Carpenter and defensive tackle Jonathan Ford in the seventh round. They won’t play a lot if they make the roster, but the depth will be helpful.
Con: Didn’t get a top wide receiver
The Packers desperately needed a top wide receiver to improve their position group and failed to get one in the first round. There was a run of receivers that went from the eighth pick to no. 12 and Green Bay wasn’t able to move up and be a part of the run. In total, there were six receivers selected before the Packers were on the clock at no. 22 and none went until the Packers moved back up to no. 34 overall to grab Christian Watson.
Watson has a sky-high ceiling and could become a big-time player. However, he’ll need some time to develop and adjust to the NFL game after playing collegiately for North Dakota State. It would’ve been nice to get a Chris Olave or someone who can step in right away and contribute to a group that currently has Allen Lazard at the top of the depth chart.
Pro: Versatility
A number of the guys Green Bay drafted have the versatility to play multiple positions. It will be interesting to see where they end up or if they split time at a couple of different spots. That’s especially true for guys like Sean Rhyan (offensive guard or tackle), Carpenter (safety or linebacker), Zach Tom (offensive guard or tackle) and Rasheed Walker (either offensive tackle spot). These guys have the ability to move around the field and earn their keep at different positions.
Con: Gave up a second-round pick
One of the biggest downfalls to the Packers draft was the capital they gave up in the trade with the Minnesota Vikings that saw them move up to 34th overall. Green Bay had to give up both second-round picks in the deal and lost out big time no matter what trade value chart you’re using. They should’ve recouped another pick, at the very least. It’s clear they like Watson a lot and there’s a very good chance he pans out. It’s just difficult to swallow the price they paid.
Next. Packers Undrafted rookie signing tracker. dark
Pro: Additional Speed
Green Bay desperately needed speed and that’s what they got in this draft. It’s clear they value elite athletes, as they were able to add it with just about every pick. Walker and Wyatt will immediately upgrade the speed and athleticism in the box while Watson, Romeo Doubs and Samori Toure are great speed additions at wide receiver.