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

1. Anthony Nelson, EDGE, Iowa

Green Bay added two edge rushers in free agency, but that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t add another one. It is a very real possibility that the top edge rushers like Brian Burns, Montez Sweat and Josh Allen are off the board when they pick at 12th overall.

After that, the next top guy is Chase Winovich out of Michigan. They can wait to add some depth. And, if they go that route, they can grab an effort guy that will try hard every time he is in the game in the form of Nelson.

Nelson had at least six sacks in each of his three seasons as a starter, and he was a consistent presence in the backfield against the run with at least eight tackles for loss in those seasons. You can never have too many pass rushers, and adding one like Nelson gives you another guy to keep your premiere guys fresh. He also gives you the ability to throw more looks at opposing teams, which defensive coordinator Mike Pettine loves to do.

Nelson may not have any moves that make you go wow this guy is going to be something special. However, he does have good size that he can use to catch opposing tackles off guard, and he will have to work to get more functional strength. If he can do that, he’ll be a long-term piece for Green Bay. At the worst, he’ll be a rotational pass rusher for years to come. That’s all you can hope for in the middle of the draft.