Green Bay Packers: Sensible, not sexy 2019 NFL Draft targets

2. Irv Smith Jr., TE, Alabama

With the impressive athleticism and playmaking that the Iowa tight ends have shown, Irv Smith has been somewhat of a forgotten man in the tight end discussion. He’s a great blocker thanks to playing in an Alabama offense that loves to run the football, and he was a good receiver when he was given the opportunity. He may not be a first-round lock like the other two, but if he comes off the board at No. 44, it would be a perfect pick.

Smith has some room to grow as a tight end, and, similar to Risner, he wouldn’t be forced to start right away as the Packers already have two veteran tight end options on the roster. He would be allowed to develop his receiving skills by watching Jimmy Graham, and he could work on his blocking with Marcedes Lewis. Head coach Matt LaFleur likes to utilize multiple tight ends, and this would get him a quality one for a number of years to come.

Noah Fant or T.J. Hockenson at No. 12 overall has been an interesting option that some of proposed. If either of them were to fall to No. 30, it would be a hard value for them to pass up. Why grab one of those flashy guys early when they could grab another guy that can be a threat up the seam for years to come? Smith may not be the top tight end from this class, but he can be the best when his career ends.