Green Bay's Potential Defensive Tackle Draft Picks: 5 Candidates Worth Green Bay's Consideration
The 2024 NFL Draft Awaits: Green Bay Packers' Defense Tackle Needs
It's almost time for the NFL Draft, kicking off on April 24th. The Green Bay Packers, holding the 23rd pick in the first round, are eyeing reinforcements to their defensive line. Here's a breakdown of the Packers' tackle situation and potential draft picks.
Defensive Tackle Overview
Kenny Clark's future with the Packers is uncertain, with just one sack and 37 total tackles last season. Devonte Wyatt, on the other hand, surpassed himself with career-high 5.0 sacks and 9.0 tackles for loss. However, both players need improvement to solidify the Packers' defensive front. T.J. Slaton and backups Karl Brooks and Colby Wooden aren't expected to provide much depth.
The Scenario: Room for Improvement
The Packers could benefit from a boost in their tackle group, and the first round could see some promising prospects available.
What's Being Said
Brian Gutekunst, Packers general manager: "Our defensive front needs to impact the quarterback more. Four players must get after the quarterback better and be more consistent."
Devonte Wyatt, Packers defensive tackle: "I love our system. It fits us well and gives me an advantage for next year."
Gutekunst on the 2025 draft class of defensive linemen: "The numbers are high, and many talented players could be available in later rounds."
Potential Draftees
With many top defensive tackles expected to be selected early, the Packers could have a variety of promising players to choose from at pick No. 23, and even in the second round. Here are five potential picks for the Green Bay Packers in the first two rounds.
• Kenneth Grant, Michigan (6-3 1⁄2, 330) - Could be a top-5 pick with the right coaching. Excelled against Ohio State last season, with 11.5 TFLs and 6.5 sacks in the last two seasons.
• Walter Nolen, Mississippi (6-3 1⁄2, 300) - Transferred from Texas A&M to Mississippi and showed promise with 11 1⁄2 sacks, 114 tackles, and 26 TFLs in his college career. Run defense grade of 91.6 by Pro Football Focus in 2024 was second only to Mason Graham.
• Derrick Harmon, Oregon (6-4 1⁄2, 320) - Transferred from Michigan State to Oregon in 2024, showcasing 116 tackles, 8 1⁄2 sacks, and 18 TFLs throughout his college career. Long arms (34 3/8") and huge hands (10 3/8") provide an impressive combination of size, strength, and length.
• Alfred Collins, Texas (6-5 1⁄2, 332) - Spent five years at UT, finishing with 7.5 sacks and 16 TFLs. A versatile player with good size but inconsistent production. Long arms (34 5/8") and good-sized hands (10").
• Tyleik Williams, Ohio State (6-3, 329) - Run-stuffing tackle that contributed to Ohio State's national championship win. Showed impressive prowess with 11.5 sacks and 27 tackles for loss during his college career. Short arms (32"), but big hands (10 1⁄4").
Past Coverage
Check out our coverage on other positions the Packers could be targeting in this year's draft:
- Quarterbacks
- Wide receivers
- Running backs
- Tight ends
- Offensive line
- Defensive ends
Stay tuned for updates on the Green Bay Packers and the latest NFL Draft news!
- The Green Bay Packers, who have the 23rd pick in the first round, are seeking reinforcements for their defensive line, specifically at the tackle position, as they aim to improve their defensive front.
- Brian Gutekunst, the Packers' general manager, emphasized the need for a more consistent pass rush from four players, including Kenny Clark and Devonte Wyatt, to better impact the quarterback.
- Among potential draft picks, Alfred Collins from Texas and Tyleik Williams from Ohio State are contenders for the Green Bay Packers, especially as many top defensive tackles are expected to be selected early.
- Remarkably, Walter Nolen from Mississippi and Derrick Harmon from Oregon have demonstrated promise with high-level performances, making them potential picks in the early rounds of the NFL Draft.
