Applying realistic expectations to this year's draft class, I'm hoping for the following:
- Kenny Clark - 1st Rounder
Expect him to push if not claim a starting spot or minimal steady rotational spot up front on Defense and be around for his second contract. I'm fine if all we ever get is a solid starter/contributor along our defensive front through 2 contracts...which from all signs is not too much to ask or expect. The man is quicker than he should be for his size and his wrestling background taught him hand control and leverage...both invaluable int he trenches.
- Jason Spriggs - 2nd Rounder
The PERFECT 2nd round pick in my mind, sure fire starter on probably over 24 teams in the NFL....may not see that here though for the first year. Some had 1st round grade on him, and he is possibly the most "athletic" OL that was in the draft. His skillset makes him a candidate for Tackle or possibly Guard moving forward...but I honestly expect him to push Bakh some and be set to start Week 1 in 2017. He will be around for years to come IMO, and will possibly even work his way into being the blindside protection blanket for AR's last years in the league. That's best case for him money wise, but worst case for the Packers I think he is still a starter moving forward 2017 onward...just possibly not at LT.
- Kyler Fackrell - 3rd Rounder
I expect ST's contributions, competition for back up OLB roles, and situational play at best case scenario. By 2nd or 3rd year be nice to see him in atleast a rotational role/some package sets. 2nd contract is entirely up to him, many say he has the skills and the work ethic...question is can he capitalize on his limited chances he'll get for a few years (barring injuries). If Blake Martinez, Barrington and Ryan aren't enough to keep Clay at OLB instead of ILB...can Fackrell become the threat he was in 2014, but than stepped back from in 2015 due to injury recovery? I like the pick, but then again wouldn't be shocked if he fizzles.
- Blake Martinez - 4th Rounder
I actually feel safer saying Blake will be around for a 2nd contract more so than Fackrell...but that is more position based than anything else really. Blake is a tried and true worker, even opposing coaches seem to have nothing to say but good things about him. Solid family and solid LB'er. Coverage is a question at times but also some say a strength. His instinctual play is a pleasure to watch, but at the next level can it translate or get tricked by opposing offensive schemes far more intricate than college ones. We got a good one here...similar to Ryan, he'll work his butt off and at times his desire and motor will make plays. *HOPING he contributes at ILB, but I know worst case he'll be a solid ST'er and rotational ILB for us.
- Dean Lowry - 4th Rounder
He's a big guy, whistle to whistle type and that can always keep a man around. I think he's spells the end to some of our experiments with upfront lineman on the roster...as I think he's good enough to be a solid back up breather type guy...future starter though I think might be a stretch. Realistically one of the two 4ths won't be here in 4 years...my money if forced would say Lowry would be the one that isn't.
-Trevor Davis - 5th Rounder
Skill positions this late are the only ones I still hold hope for contributions from. I think Davis has the skillset and the burners to help us, but only most likely as a returner in 2016...if we think he can hide on a practice squad he may even wide up there depending what way we go with Abby/Monty/Janis/Adams. No doubt though many feel he was a slight steal where we got him at, and all signs point towards a high ceiling for him. Me personally, I think this means Abby is out...but I don't necessarily feel Davis is a sure fire long term option just yet either.
- Kyle Murphy - 6th Rounder
Solid depth guy, he sees the end of his contract I say successful worthwhile pick....he sees a second one, we got a steal. Strength and footwork seem to need some work, but solid Tackle on a solid college team....love large trench warriors, we got one.