The Green Bay Packers continue to search for receiver help as bigger free agents like Cooper Kupp and Stefon Diggs sign on to other teams. It’s getting to the point that many Packers fans are becoming more optimistic about the team’s chances of drafting a big name in the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft as opposed to signing a free agent. However, ESPN NFL expert Mina Kimes does not expect the team to go that route, at least in the 1st Round.
Mina Kimes Would be “SHOCKED” If Green Bay Packers Choose WR in Round 1
ESPN’s Mina Kimes is a sharp football analyst who brings in-depth insights to topics across the league. Last week, Kimes tackled the Packers WR issues on NFL Live. Leading up to her comments, ESPN noted that the Packers’ 25 total drops by receivers last year was tied for the most of any NFL team over the past 10 years.
The other team to tie the Pack in this category was the 2023 Kansas City Chiefs, who immediately added Texas product Xavier Worthy in the first round of the next year’s draft. So, should the Packers go for a similar approach In Mel Kiper Jr.’s latest mock draft, the Packers select Ohio State standout Emeka Egbuka.
Kimes weighed in by saying that Egbuka is not an ideal fit for the team due to being of a similar skillset to players already on the roster, naming Jayden Reed and Romeo Doubs as smaller, slot players already fulfilling that niche for quarterback Jordan Love.
Fans have been calling Egbuka a “safe” pick, but it might be too safe. The former Buckeye is definitely one of the top receivers in this year’s class, but the Packers should be looking for a more dynamic threat as opposed to another jet sweep or screen pass option.
Kimes and fellow analyst Bill Barnwell agreed that the Packers need more of a speed guy, someone to take the top off the defense and provide a threat down the field after opposing defenses are drawn down into the box by the Packers’ heavy run game.
Such players, including Texas Longhorn Matthew Golden, will likely not be available at pick 23. If the Packers do not choose a wideout this year, it will be the 22nd straight year without selecting a WR in the opening round.
Other Options for the Green Bay Packers in Round 1
Cornerback and pass rusher were highlighted as two other big needs that Kimes felt the Packers would be more likely to go for. Corner remains a sticky situation for the Packers. Veteran Jaire Alexander remains on the roster despite being shopped, indicating that no team is willing to give up much of anything in exchange for the injury-prone defensive back. Draft day itself might be the last chance for the Packers to acquire anything in exchange for Alexander.
Pass rusher is always in play, and the team has already been linked with names like Texas A&M’s Nic Scourton, as well as fellow former Aggie Shemar Stewart. Interior defensive line could also be an option, given the departure of key cog TJ Slaton in free agency. Ole Miss defensive linemen Walter Nolan impressed the team at the Senior Bowl earlier this year.
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