Assessing the Packers 2024 draft class

A solid draft class for Brian Gutekunst, who attacked needs along the offensive line, safety, linebacker and in the slot. The Packers got players who could contribute immediately in offensive lineman Jordan Morgan, off-ball linebacker Edgerrin Cooper, safety/slot Javon Bullard and running back MarShawn Lloyd during their first four picks and potentially found steals in quarterback Michael Pratt and cornerback Kalen King in the seventh round. A second off-ball linebacker to end Day 2 (Ty'Ron Hopper) and trades going up for Evan Williams and Jacob Monk on Day 3 could be questioned, and there wasn't a heavy investment in premium positions. Kitan Olapado has a chance to really surprise as an underrated pick on Day 3. This is an experienced draft class packed with team captains and leaders. If Morgan's versatility allows the Packers to remain good up front on offense, Cooper and Bullard help the defense take a step forward and one or two Day 3 picks provide valuable depth, this could be a great class. The first four picks looked so good that it's tough to argue with much else.

Sep 30, 2023; Boulder, Colorado, USA; USC Trojans running back MarShawn Lloyd (0) turns it up field on the way for a touchdown in the first quarter against the Colorado Buffaloes at Folsom Field. Mandatory Credit: John Leyba-USA TODAY Sports

On paper, the 2024 class looks really good. Green Bay managed to secure one of the top tackle prospects and then added a heat-seeking missile at linebacker to pair with Quay Walker and replace De'Vondre Campbell. Then, after a year of uninspiring play from their safeties, the Packers utilized free agency and the draft to a complete overhaul of the position, infusing the room with versatile playmakers. There is also a lot to like about third-rounder MarShawn Lloyd, who could be a spark plug for Matt LaFleur's offense while serving as Josh Jacobs' backup. Overall, Brian Gutekunst and the scouting department did what they set out to address team needs, including adding depth along the offensive line and shoring up the middle and back end of the defense.

Georgia Bulldogs defensive back Javon Bullard (22) tackles Florida Gators wide receiver Eugene Wilson III (3) during the third quarter of an NCAA Football game Saturday, Oct. 28, 2023 at EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville, Fla. Georgia defeated Florida 43-20. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union]

I have no complaints about the Packers 2024 draft class. Brian Gutekunst tackled the Packers' three biggest needs - the offensive, linebacker, and safety - and did so multiple times. But beyond the specific players, I love the traits that the Packers emphasized. On defense at linebacker and safety, there was an emphasis on adding physical and aggressive football players as the Packers underwent not only a scheme shift under Jeff Hafley but a change in mentality as well. On offense, versatility along the offensive line was again prioritized, and when it comes to the construction of that starting five, the Packers have quite a few more options now than they did prior to the draft.

TUSCALOOSA, ALABAMA - OCTOBER 08: Edgerrin Cooper #45 of the Texas A&M Aggies reacts after recovering a fumble by Jalen Milroe #4 of the Alabama Crimson Tide during the first half at Bryant-Denny Stadium on October 08, 2022 in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

Versatile and interchangeable. Those are the two words that I've used to describe this draft class. While it's not as sexy on paper as last year's class when Gutekunst added an edge rusher nicknamed Hercules and three pass catchers in the Top 100, this class was all about fortifying the offensive line and adding versatility in the secondary. Edgerrin Cooper is my early betting favorite to win Defensive Rookie of the Year, while Javon Bullard, Evan Williams and Kitan Oladapo could all play roles in the secondary as rookies. The Packers got better along the offensive line, added much-needed pieces in the secondary and the best linebacker in the draft. Gutekunst appears to have done it again.

1.25: OL Jordan Morgan, Arizona

2.45: LB Edgerrin Cooper, Texas A&M

2.58: S Javon Bullard, Georgia

3.88: RB MarShawn Lloyd, USC

3.91: LB Ty'Ron Hopper, Missouri

4.111: S Evan Williams, Oregon

5.163: OL Jacob Monk, Duke

5.169: S Kitan Oladapo, Oregon State

6.202: OL Travis Glover, Georgia State

7.245: QB Michael Pratt, Tulane

7.255: CB Kalen King, Penn State

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