3 draft picks Packers got right and 2 moves they will regret again
The Green Bay Packers have high expectations after their successful season last year. The Packers are looking on their 11-player 2024 draft class for contributions in addition to second-year players making the next step.
It was a vintage Packers draft in many respects. They aggressively selected three safeties, two linebackers, and three offensive linemen at positions of need. It’s Brian Gutekunst’s Green Bay style.
Jordan Love needs to be protected, and having three linemen on the field helps. The other important lesson is that, under Jeff Hafley, Green Bay has adopted a different defensive strategy and must now locate guys who can work in his more aggressive system. That’s what the Packers got in the draft.
Which selections will be praised and which choices will the Packers regret making as we reflect on this draft class?
draft selections Packers made decisions that were correct and incorrect.
Right draft choice for the Packers: Edgerrin Cooper
In the midst of the Packers’ defense, Edgerrin Cooper has the ability to make a big difference. Cooper can do everything with his quickness, agility, and ability to create plays.
Cooper got eight sacks in the previous season. Jeff Hafley can use Cooper as a blitzer, ask him to drop into coverage, or stop the run. Anywhere on the field, Cooper can make an impact with his speed, whether it’s covering tight ends or stopping screen passes.
Before the NFL Draft, ESPN’s RiLouisddick noted, “He is the best off-ball linebacker in the class, and it isn’t even a debate in my eyes.” “At Texas A&M in 2023, he had an impressive stat line of 80 tackles, 8 sacks, 14 tackles for loss, and 20 pressures. And in 2024, I anticipate him continuing to rule in a significant capacity with an NFL team.”
Alongside Quay Walker at linebacker, Cooper can make a big contribution right away. He will start right away. This choice was really sensible.
Right draft choice by the Packers: MarShawn Lloyd
Brian Gutekunst saw that Green Bay needed a running back when they entered the draft. When Aaron Jones exited the game the previous season, the Packers’ run game was significantly less effective, and Gutekunst wasn’t prepared to take a chance on Josh Jacobs’ absence.
