Green Bay Packers: Possible 2018 NFL Draft targets after free agency

Green Bay Packers GM Brian Gutekunst let some key players go, yet improved the team in free agency now he’ll look to do the same in the 2018 NFL Draft.

When free agency kicked off, no one would have thought Jordy Nelson’s departure and the Green Packers getting better would be one in the same, but that’s the case now. With two big signings in the midst of Nelson’s release, new general manager Brian Gutekunst may have improved their defense and offense.

The first was done by signing defensive lineman Muhammad Wilkerson, the former New York Jets first-round pick who was an absolute terror on the defensive line. During a three-year stretch from 2012-15, he tallied 28.5 sacks and made the Pro Bowl (2015). However, since then, he’s been a JAG (just another guy), but Green Bay is hoping to breathe new life into his career. Pairing him with one of the league’s best nose tackle in Kenny Clark could do just that.

On the offensive side of the ball, Gutekunst may have released Nelson, but they are getting back a rejuvenated Jimmy Graham. Once thought to be a fish out water, the five-time Pro Bowler led all tight ends with 10 touchdowns this season and earned his fifth Pro Bowl nod. Graham, though 31, should give Rogers the best tight end he’s had since Jermichael Finley.

In addition to getting a tight end, the Packers may have found a successor for Rodgers. Or at least a valuable option should the injury bug plague him again. The Packers traded Damarious Randall to the Browns in exchange for DeShone Kizer.

With these two additions and a healthy Aaron Rodgers, the Packers are just a few pieces away from bringing home the Lombardi Trophy. The Packers should use this draft to fill some voids and rise to the top of the NFC North.