The first round of the 2023 NFL draft begins in exactly two weeks. Here’s a seven-round, 11-pick mock draft for the Green Bay Packers, using the PFF simulator and help from Dane Brugler’s draft guide and Brennen Rupp’s Unpacking Future Packers draft series.
1.15: OLB Myles Murphy, Clemson: Young, athletic, plays a premium position, from a top program. Think Rashan Gary. Needs time to develop, but All-Pro upside. Solves need for a post-Preston Smith plan at edge rusher.
2.42 (from NYJ): TE Darnell Washington, Georgia: Massive Y tight end with the athleticism to grow into a dangerous weapon in the passing game. Could immediately replace Marcedes Lewis as the inline tight end option. (Pick acquired in theoretical trade of Aaron Rodgers.)
2.45: OL Cody Mauch, North Dakota State: Tough, versatile and athletic lineman who checks all the boxes for the Packers. Future starter somewhere, potentially even at right tackle.
3.78: WR Jonathan Mingo, Ole Miss: Ideal Allen Lazard replacement, but with more athleticism and versatility. Tested like an alien at 220 pounds.
4.116: WR Dontayvion Wicks, Virginia: Another receiver who checks all the boxes. Dominant 2021 season (1,203 yards, 21.1 per catch). Packers need more developmental X receivers.
5.149: DB Marte Mapu, Sacramento State: Do-it-all defender who played snaps at safety, slot corner and linebacker. Likely would be a higher pick without an injury suffered during pre-draft process.
5.170: TE Josh Whyle, Cincinnati: School’s all-time leader in touchdown catches. Ran 4.69 at 6-6, 249. Strong pairing with Darnell Washington as the future at tight end.
7.232: DL Dante Stills, West Virginia: Big-time disruptor (52.5 tackles for loss, 23.5 sacks) who ran 4.85 at 286 pounds. Packers desperately need depth along the defensive line.
7.235: RB/FB/TE Hunter Luepke, North Dakota State: Probably an H-back type. Has experience doing a little bit of everything, and tested like an elite athlete.
7.242: S Jordan Howden, Minnesota: Experienced safety (49-game starter) who ran well at the combine (4.49) and consistently tackles.
7.256: QB Sean Clifford, Penn State: Pre-draft visitor. Packers need to find backup quarterback options.
