We’re hitting the home stretch on the draft and Ted is loaded with picks heading into Round 4 – his money round! The Packers have picked a couple defensive backs and a defensive lineman, but they still have needs. In a deep draft, Ted will options to find contributors at positions of need.
LINEBACKERS
Carl Lawson – The end of the second tier of edge guys in a deep class, Lawson has some injury concerns, but figures to go in the 3rd round. Sets the edge and plays physical, but appears to lack elite quick twitch to be a dominant speed angle rusher.
Vince Biegel – Classic Ted Thompson football guy. The Packers haven’t addressed edge yet and the local boy could be good developmental depth rusher to help fill the void. Doesn’t have the pedigree of TJ Watt, but has the same effort and some scouts picked him to be the better pro long-term.
RUNNING BACKS
Samaje Perine – Packer fans may best remember him for rushing for 427 to break the NCAA record for most rushing yards in a game – a record that Melvin Gordon had set exactly one day prior. A power runner to complement Ty Montgomery, Perine could be a valuable part of a running back committee, grinding out the two minute drill and pounding between the tackles when the weather turns (which will be valuable on January 21st when the Packers host the NFCC). Also solid in pass protection, a necessity for the McCarthy offense.
Corey Clement – Overshadowed his teammate, the aforementioned Melvin Gordon, Clement is a chiseled athlete with average (ish) timed speed. He had a solid college career and his strong Senior Bowl showing showed he can be a productive RB2 at the next level. That’s just what the Packers need.
BIG MEN
Jarron Jones – Defensive big man is a bit of a project, but his physical skills and one big year show enough promise to let you know he will be able to contribute at the next level with power in the trenches… if he can stay healthy… which wasn’t easy for him in college. Also has effort concerns, which is common for 6’6″ guys that weigh 320.
Nico Siragusa – Power-blocking interior lineman appears to be one of the big droppers so far. Played left guard for three years, helping pave the way for Donnel Pumphrey to set the career NCAA rushing record. He would need some development in the Packers spaced out scheme, but could be a great developmental prospect for the future – Jahri won’t last long and Nico could become the next in a long line of Ted’s super 4th round guards.