2024 NFL Draft: Green Bay First Round Preview & Top Prospects

5 min read Post on Apr 26, 2025

2024 NFL Draft: Green Bay First Round Preview & Top Prospects

Analyzing the Packers' Draft Needs in 2024

The Green Bay Packers possess a strong foundation in several areas, but significant weaknesses exist that need addressing in the 2024 NFL Draft. While their running game and receiving corps show promise, the offensive and defensive lines, and quarterback position, present critical needs. Free agency signings and potential retirements further highlight these areas of concern.

The following are the top 3-5 most pressing needs for the Green Bay Packers heading into the 2024 NFL Draft:

Quarterback: The post-Aaron Rodgers era necessitates finding a long-term solution at the most important position. The Packers need a quarterback with high potential and the ability to lead the offense.
Offensive Tackle: Protecting the quarterback, whoever it may be, is paramount. A strong offensive tackle is essential for a successful running game and a clean pocket for passing plays.
Cornerback: Strengthening the secondary is a key priority. The Packers need a cornerback with excellent coverage skills and the ability to disrupt opposing passing attacks.
Edge Rusher: Generating pressure on the quarterback is vital for any successful defense. The Packers need an edge rusher who can consistently get to the quarterback and disrupt plays.

Top Prospects for the Green Bay Packers in the First Round

The 2024 NFL Draft boasts a strong class of prospects, offering several players who could address the Packers' immediate needs.

Top Quarterback Prospects

Several top QB prospects could be available when the Green Bay Packers pick. Among them:

Caleb Williams (USC): Williams possesses exceptional arm talent, athleticism, and playmaking ability. His experience and success in college make him a highly coveted prospect. However, his consistency needs improvement.
Drake Maye (UNC): Maye is known for his strong arm, accuracy, and pocket presence. He's a pro-ready prospect with the potential to be a franchise quarterback. Concerns remain about his ability against elite competition.

These 2024 NFL Draft quarterback prospects offer different strengths, and the Packers will need to carefully assess which best fits their offensive system and long-term vision.

Top Offensive Tackle Prospects

The 2024 NFL Draft is expected to feature several talented offensive tackles capable of protecting the quarterback and opening holes for the running game. Among the top contenders:

Peter Skoronski (Northwestern): Skoronski is lauded for his technique, athleticism, and intelligence. He could immediately become a cornerstone of the Green Bay Packers' offensive line.
Anton Harrison (Oklahoma): Harrison possesses impressive size, athleticism, and pass-blocking skills. His potential to develop into an elite left tackle is undeniable.

Securing one of these top offensive tackle prospects in the first round would significantly bolster the Green Bay Packers' offensive line and improve overall team performance. These 2024 NFL Draft offensive line prospects are crucial to the team's success.

Top Defensive Prospects (CB/Edge)

The Packers will also likely consider high-impact defensive players to fortify their unit. Top prospects include:

Devon Witherspoon (Illinois) (CB): Witherspoon is a physical cornerback with great ball skills and tackling ability. He has the potential to be an immediate contributor to the Packers' secondary.
Tyree Wilson (Texas Tech) (Edge): Wilson is a powerful and athletic edge rusher with the ability to pressure the quarterback. His length and speed make him a disruptive force on the defensive line.

Adding a top cornerback or edge rusher in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft would significantly upgrade the Green Bay Packers' defense, enabling them to create more turnovers and improve their overall performance.

Draft Day Scenarios and Trade Possibilities

The Green Bay Packers could choose various paths on draft day. They might remain at their pick, aiming for the best available player, or opt for a trade. Trading up would allow them to secure a highly-rated prospect, but at the cost of additional draft capital. Trading down could net them more picks, enabling them to build depth across the roster.

Scenario 1: Stay at Pick: The Packers select the highest-ranked player on their board who fills a crucial need.
Scenario 2: Trade Up: The Packers trade future picks to acquire a top prospect, such as a franchise quarterback.
Scenario 3: Trade Down: The Packers trade their pick for multiple selections, potentially addressing multiple needs in later rounds.

Potential trade partners could include teams looking to move up for a specific player, offering valuable assets in return for the Green Bay Packers' first-round pick. The 2024 NFL Draft trades will likely involve a significant amount of strategic maneuvering.

Conclusion: Final Thoughts on the Green Bay Packers' 2024 First Round

The Green Bay Packers' 2024 first-round pick is incredibly important for their future success. Addressing crucial needs at quarterback, offensive tackle, cornerback, and edge rusher will be paramount. The prospects analyzed above present compelling options, but the team's ultimate decision will hinge on various factors, including player performance, team needs, and potential trade opportunities. The 2024 NFL Draft trades could significantly alter the landscape.

Who do YOU think the Green Bay Packers should draft? What are YOUR predictions for the 2024 NFL Draft? Share your thoughts on the Green Bay Packers' 2024 first-round strategy in the comments below!