Green Bay Packers: Last-minute 2018 NFL Draft rumors you need to know

Denzel Ward tops Packers’ first-round wish list?

More than likely, Denzel Ward will be off the board well before the Packers pick at No. 14 overall. That’s unfortunate for them, seeing as the Ohio State cornerback is allegedly the player they most covet of the 2018 draft class.

That is, according to Draft Analyst’s Tony Pauline:

"I’m told Denzel Ward of Ohio State is the player the Packers truly covet, but short of trading up, the team won’t have a shot at drafting him."

Ward, arguably this year’s top cornerback, figures to hear his name called within the first 10 picks. As Pauline mentions, Green Bay could choose to move up in the draft, which wouldn’t be completely out of the question. General manager Brian Gutekunst has 12 draft picks to work with, which could make swinging a deal to jump up a few spots somewhat feasible.

And it’s not like the need isn’t there. The Packers still have concerns at cornerback, even after bringing back both Tramon Williams and Davon House this offseason. Kevin King is coming off an unspectacular rookie season, and the rest of the depth chart is underwhelming.

Adding Ward to the mix, though, would certainly be a step in the right direction. However, unless Gutekunst is willing to pull the trigger on a trade, it looks like he’ll have to settle for a different cornerback in the first round.