The 2026 NFL Draft is just around the corner, and the Green Bay Packers are gearing up to make some strategic moves. With a limited number of draft picks and a long list of needs, General Manager Brian Gutekunst has his work cut out for him. In this mock draft, we take a closer look at the team's potential selections and the impact they could have on the team's future.
One area of focus is the defensive line. With Micah Parsons, Rashan Gary, and Kingsley Enagbare all set to miss the start of the season due to injuries, the Packers are in need of some pass-rushing help. Enter Gabe Jacas, a 6-foot-3, 260-pound edge rusher from Illinois. Jacas has the size and production to make an immediate impact, and his natural leadership and physicality make him an ideal fit for the team. In my opinion, this pick is a no-brainer, and it's fascinating to see how Jacas' athletic build and quick, violent pass-rushing style could elevate the Packers' defense.
Another area of need is the cornerback position. While the Packers have some solid options in Keisean Nixon, Carrington Valentine, and Benjamin St-Juste, they could use an upgrade. Julian Neal from Arkansas stands out as a potential first-round pick. With a 48.0% catch rate and 55.2 passer rating in 2024, and a 56.3% catch rate and 82.5 passer rating in 2025, Neal has the potential to be a quality tackler and run defender. His physical skill set and 9.20 RAS score make him an intriguing prospect, and I believe he could be a solid addition to the team.
The Packers also need to address their nose tackle position. Zxavian Harris from Mississippi stands out as a potential fourth-round pick. At 6-foot-7, 330 pounds, Harris has the size and length to control the middle of the line. With three sacks, nine tackles for losses, three pass deflections, and three blocked kicks in his senior season, Harris has the production to make an impact. However, his off-the-field history will need to be vetted, and I believe this is an area where the Packers could benefit from some due diligence.
In the fifth round, the Packers could look to add some depth at wide receiver. De'Zhaun Stribling from Mississippi stands out as a potential pick. After two seasons at Washington State and two more at Oklahoma State, Stribling finished his career with the Rebels, catching 55 passes for 811 yards and six touchdowns. With a 4.36 40-yard dash time and a 9.62 RAS score, Stribling has the speed and athleticism to make an impact. In my opinion, this pick could be a great fit for the team, especially given Jordan Love's fondness for throwing the ball downfield.
One area where the Packers could benefit from some free agency moves is at the center and guard positions. With no obvious backup to new starting left tackle Jordan Morgan, the team could look to add a veteran lineman who can play center and guard. Alternatively, the Packers could look to add a nose tackle in free agency, such as D.J. Reader, which would free up the fourth-round pick to go on someone like Boise State's Kage Casey or Michigan State's Matt Gulbin.
Overall, this mock draft addresses some of the Packers' most pressing needs, and I believe it could set the team up for success in the 2026 season. However, with no first-round pick, the team will need to be strategic in its free agency moves to ensure a well-rounded roster for the start of OTAs next month. In my opinion, the Packers have the potential to make some smart picks and build a strong team, but it will take some careful planning and execution to get there.
