The Packers’ NFL campaign came to an end in last season’s wild-card round, disappointing fans hoping to see them go far in the playoffs like they did in the previous season. Whether the Packers can aim for a championship title or the Super Bowl when the new season kicks off may depend on their team, who they retain, which positions they strengthen, and whether they make strategic draft picks.
Current strengths within the roster
Safety, running back, and kicker are the most settled positions on the roster, with stars like Xavier Mckinney, Josh Jacobs and lots of backup quality. Tight end is another position group that the Packers should be happy with. Tucker Kraft emerged as one of the breakout players of last season. John Fitzpatrick has been tendered a new contract and is back on the roster. The team also has Musgrave returning after last year’s ankle injury.
Positions that may or may not be a priority
Quarterback and cornerback are position groups that may benefit from disruption, but are also in optimal shape. QB Jordan Love suffered multiple injuries last season, which led to Malik Willis filling in for several big matches. If Love comes back in good health, they’ll have the No. 1 option locked down. A few strong performances solidified Willis as a solid No. 2 option for the Packers, while Sean Clifford, a 2023 draft pick, will get an opportunity to stick as the No. 3 quarterback next season. Both Willis and Clifford, however, will be free agents by 2026, so the management may be tempted to make another investment here.
On the other hand, the Packers are actively rebuilding at cornerback. Jaire Alexander is up for trade, but they’ve secured Nate Hobbs. Keisean Nixon and Carrington Valentine are also starting options. Javon Bullard, a second-round pick in 2024, emerged as a slot option last season. Kalen King and Kamal Hadden, also 2024 draft picks, are returning after a year on the practice squad. The Pack may opt for an infusion of talent and competition with an early-round pick, but some may say they’re already set at cornerback.
Positions that need disruption
The Packers have seven picks in the upcoming 2025 NFL draft. It goes without saying that they will use their picks to upgrade where it matters most and find those players who can make an impact on the squad. Below, I’ll cover the main positions that need rookie contributors and our draft predictions. You can find more expert predictions from Wincomparator if you’re looking for the most accurate forecasts on the NFL and other top sports.
Wide Receiver
An investment at receiver could help the passing game, especially with Christian Watson and Romeo Doubs entering the final year of rookie deals. Signing Mecole Hardman doesn’t lessen the need for another WR.
Potential QB draft picks:
- Jayde Higgins – Iowa State
- Emeka Egbuka – Ohio State
- Tre Harris – Ole Miss
Offensive Line
The Packers are at least six deep in starting players for the offensive line. However, the Green and Gold tend to invest yearly for this position. So new additions will be coming via the draft or college-free agency.
Potential OT draft picks:
- John Williams – Cincinnati
- Josh Simmons – Ohio State
Defensive Tackle
2024 was the least productive of Kenny Clark’s career. TJ Slaton has departed the team, and Devonte Wyatt will likely be entering the final year of his deal if the Packers don’t pick up his fifth-year option or agree to an extension. So, this position is high on the list for a draft addition.
Potential DT draft picks:
- Jordan Phillips – Maryland
- TJ Sanders – South Carolina
- Alfred Collins – Texas
Edge Rusher
The current group wasn’t good enough in 2024, and Lukas Van Ness and Brenton Cox Jr. didn’t play any big roles. Rashan Gary and Kingsley Enagbare are veterans on the edge, but, the team needs an impact edge rusher to make a difference in 2025.
Potential edge draft picks
- Fadil Diggs – Syracuse
- Elijah Roberts – SMU
Linebacker
Quay Walker and Edgerrin Cooper are a solid player combo for the squad. The Packers have re-signed Isaiah McDuffie and replaced Eric Wilson with Kristian Welch. So, adding a Linebacker isn’t a priority, but it’s clear they still need more numbers in this position group, which may influence their draft strategy.
Potential LB draft picks
- Teddye Buchanan – California
- Jihaad Campbell – Alabama
- Smael Mondon Jr. – Georgia
Unlike some other NFL teams, the Green Bay Packers don’t have any pressing needs on their roster. However, there are positions that certainly need to improve if the team hopes to go further in the playoffs and become a true contender. The free agency window is closing, and the draft is just around the corner, so we’ll soon have a complete picture of the Packers’ lineup for 2025.