Green Bay Packers Top 5 Needs in 2015 NFL Draft

Jan 18, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Green Bay Packers wide receiver Randall Cobb (18) stiff arms Seattle Seahawks cornerback Jeremy Lane (20) during the first quarter in the NFC Championship Game at CenturyLink Field. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports

#5  Wide Receiver  –  This will become even more pressing of a need if the Packers are unable to reach a deal with Randall Cobb.  Packers fans have become accustomed to their stars sticking around, but I would suggest that there is a real reason to be nervous in this situation.

With Dez Bryant and Demaryius Thomas likely headed for franchise tags or extensions, Cobb could be the next-best option on the free agent market.  Still 24-years old until the start of next season, teams would line up for Cobb’s playmaking abilities.  Unless Green Bay slaps a franchise tag on him, he may be tempted to establish his value on the open market before accepting an extension with the Packers.

While Jordy Nelson should have several quality seasons ahead of him, the depth is what is questionable.  Davante Adams was encouraging towards the end of the season, breaking out against the Dallas Cowboys in the playoffs, but he still has some growing to do.  Jarrett Boykin was a ghost in 2014, while Jeff Janis and Jared Abbrederis were not contributors.  Adding a name to compete with Janis and Abbrederis entering 2015 would give Rodgers a more complete and dynamic receiving corps.

Ted Thompson wakes up in the morning to draft second-round receivers, but he could wait until the middle rounds to address the position this season.  Cobb’s departure might push him in the direction of a more pro-ready receiver, while Cobb’s return could allow the Packers to take on another highly skilled long-term prospect.

Likely round:  4th or later

Next: #4: Re-stock on the back end