The 2019 NFL draft presented several opportunities to compare many of the Green Bay Packers’ draft picks against rival picks at the same position inside the NFC North.
Here’s a look at a few to watch over the next couple of years:
Packers OL Elgton Jenkins vs. Vikings C Garrett Bradbury: The Vikings took Bradbury at No. 18 to anchor their new-look offensive line. The Packers grabbed Jenkins 26 picks later. Both are highly rated interior line prospects with experience and athleticism, and they’ll both likely start early, but it’s possible the Packers got a little better value with Jenkins at No. 44.
Packers TE Jace Sternberger vs. Lions TE T.J. Hockenson and Vikings TE Irv Smith: The Lions (No. 8) and Vikings (No. 50) both used top-50 picks on tight ends, while the Packers waited until No. 75 to grab Sternberger. Hockenson and Smith might be better blockers and more complete players right now, but Sternberger has the advantage over both in the passing game. Will Sternberger end up being the best of the three? Probably not, but the value – especially at tight end – could still end up being advantage Packers, especially if Sternberger develops a more well-rounded game.
Packers RB Dexter Williams vs. Bears RB David Montgomery and Vikings RB Alexander Mattison: Montgomery and Mattison were both third-round picks, while Williams didn’t come off the board until the Packers took him at No. 194. Production will determine who got the better value. The Bears probably think they landed an impact player in Montgomery, who could be the next Kareem Hunt, but good players can often be found for cheap on Day 3 of the draft. Both Montgomery and Williams look like strong schematical fits, but it wouldn’t be hugely surprising if Montgomery and Williams produce at similar levels in the NFL. Mattison was a head-scratcher.
Packers S Darnell Savage vs. Lions S Will Harris: Both the Packers and Lions took potential starters at safety, with Green Bay getting Savage at No. 21 overall and Detroit landing Harris at No. 81. Both are experienced, athletic and versatile. And both could be starting in 2019. The Packers spent two fourth-round picks to move up and are banking on Savage being a difference-maker.
