3 safe first-round prospects Packers could target in 2023 NFL Draft

The Green Bay Packers don’t often play it safe in the first round of NFL Drafts. They usually prefer to swing for the fences. But what if they change their philosophy heading into Year 1 of the Jordan Love era?

The Packers need some surefire weapons around Love. They currently lack the necessary playmakers at skill positions not named running back to help him become successful. That will place an unnecessary burden on a young quarterback.

They also have holes at other positions on their roster. Outside linebacker, defensive line, and safety are just a few that come to mind.

Given their current roster situation, here are three “safe” first-round prospects they could target at no 15 to fill some of those gaps.

If the Green Bay Packers want to take the safe road with their 15th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, here are three safe first-round prospects.

Safe first-round prospects for Packers: Michael Mayer, TE

The Packers desperately need a tight end after watching Robert Tonyan sign with the Chicago Bears and allowing Marcedes Lewis to remain in free agency. I’m certainly not advocating for them to use their 15th overall pick on one, but signs are pointing toward them drafting one.

Of the top tight ends–Michael Mayer, Dalton Kincaid, Luke Musgrave and Darnell Washington–Mayer is the best set up for success from Day 1. He’s the most complete tight end in the draft and can help Green Bay in both the running and passing games. It might take him a couple of years, as it does for all tight ends, but his floor is the highest for tight ends in this draft class.

Safe first-round prospects for Packers: Brian Branch, S

Safety is another position the Packers desperately need talent at. Brian Branch is the only first-round prospect at the position and could be a target. What he lacks in size, he makes up for in intelligence, football I.Q. and fundamentals. He can either play as the nickel cornerback or as a safety, and line up all over the field. Defensive coordinator Joe Barry loves that versatility and can make great use of Branch on his defense.

Safe first-round prospects for Packers: Jaxon Smith-Njigba, WR

Jaxon Smith-Njiba is a favorite of mine and it would be a homerun if he falls to Green Bay at 15. He has excellent hands and route-running skills, allowing him to quickly build rapport with quarterbacks. His lack of elite athleticism may prevent him from becoming a superstar, but he should be able to contribute from Day 1.