The Green Bay Packers used their first two picks of the 2016 NFL Draft to bolster both sides of the line of scrimmage. Yesterday they took UCLA defensive tackle Kenny Clark and today traded up in round two to take Indiana offensive tackle Jason Spriggs. I like both selections, as I think offensive line needs an overhaul while Clark fills a need on defense with the retirement of B.J. Raji.
From what I heard from analysts today Clark is a clean pick who should be able to contribute from day one. Did not hear many negatives. Can’t remember his name but the UCLA color analyst absolutely loved him. He should know as he seen him play every week. Raji was average at best last year so Clark could be an immediate improvement.
General manager Ted Thompson joined the trading party that is this year’s NFL Draft by moving up nine spots to take Spriggs. This is a big dude at 6-6 and 300 pounds and was a four year starter so may be well suited to step right in if need be. A quick review says he needs some technique work, but that is what NFL coaches get paid to do.
In the third round the Packers selected Utah State outside linebacker Kyler Fackrell. It’s a curious pick considering the Packers’ linebacker need is mostly inside. But I have to admit, just from the NFL link I shared and some highlights, guy looks like a player. Certainly can’t be any worse than Mike Neal, who the Packers didn’t tried to re-sign.
It was a good first two days for the Packers, who have four picks left tomorrow, two in the fourth round. I would like to see another offensive lineman, an inside linebacker, and maybe a tight end or running back.
More to come.