Green Bay Packers 2014 NFL Draft Wrap-up
November 3, 2012; Hattiesburg, MS, USA; UAB Blazers running back Darrin Reaves (5) runs away from a tackle by Southern Miss Golden Eagles defensive lineman Khyri Thornton (98) during their game at M.M. Roberts Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Chuck Cook – USA TODAY Sports
Defensive Additions
FS Ha-Ha Clinton-Dix, University of Alabama
As one of the nation’s best rated free safeties, the Packers got a steal selecting him #21 overall. Originally out of Orlando, Florida, Hasean Clinton-Dix is one of Alabama’s top draft choices in 2014. At 6-1, 208 pounds, he has a very lanky build, but isn’t very strong. Instead, Clinton-Dix is faster and smarter than he is stronger and tougher. Where he is one of the NCAA’s best free safeties is in his ability to read and diagnose a play just from a simple formation change and adjust to those changes on the fly. He has great tackling ability and can help out the Packers with the running game. In his past two seasons as Free Safety of Alabama, Clinton-Dix intercepted opposing QBs 7 times. As well, at 6’1″ he is athletic but isn’t afraid to get physical with his receivers. For the Packers, they were extremely lucky that somebody else didn’t select Clinton-Dix before them. With this first-round pick, the Pack can utilize him right away at a Free Safety position that desperately needs a leader. Next year watch out for the high-flying Dix to make an impact early.
DT Khyri Thornton, University of Southern Mississippi
Like many college athletes, Thornton’s junior year was much more impressive than his senior season. However, over his career, Thornton has been relatively successful and productive as a DT for Southern Miss. Over his career, Thornton has amassed 6.5 sacks, 116 tackles and 29.5 tackles for loss. How Thornton has been able to be relatively successful is something that the Packers have admired. His motor is one of the best, seeing as that he can be speedy quick when chasing down defenders. With the 3-4 defense, Thornton perhaps may not get much playing time at first, but with some luck, he could be the next starting defensive tackle for the Green Bay Packers.
OLB Carl Bradford, Arizona State University
In my estimation of Bradford, he should have gone way earlier than the fourth round. A simple look at his stats can help out even the most uneducated of fans. In his last two season as an Aztec, Bradford averaged 20.25 tackles for loss, 10 sacks, 70.5 tackles, 4 passes defended, 3 QB hurries, 3 forced fumbles and even returned an interception 18 yards for a touchdown during his junior season. Although I predicted the Pack to get an OLB in the first round, they surprised me and waited all the way till the fourth round to select underrated Carl Bradford out of ASU. He has the long locks and aggressive play which is very indicative of a Green Bay style linebacker considering A.J. Hawk and Clay Matthews. Although sometimes that aggressive play can get him into trouble, Bradford knows how to play smart and can use his spirit and love for the game to his advantage. He has a big motor and can be quick off the snap. Look for Bradford to fit into the mix with ease.
DB Demetri Goodson, Baylor University
I’m sure the Packers do not need another corner, however Goodson is a steal. With him as a defensive back that can play multiple positions, he can fill any slot that the Packers need him to, utilizing his versatility and ball skills to the secondary’s advantage.