The 2023 NFL Draft kicks off April 27 and there are a lot of different opinions regarding the Green Bay Packers and their first round draft pick (15th overall). Media experts have been offering up their opinions and mock drafts have been plentiful in recent days.
A big need for the team this offseason is a sturdy ball catcher to create a system of support around new starting quarterback Jordan Love. Here are two likely draft candidates at tight end who may fill that spot nicely.
Dalton Kincaid, Utah
Kincaid, who has tremendous ball-handling ability and something scouts refer to as “sticky hands,” would help a Packers offense looking to rally around new quarterback Jordan Love. The consensus on this young player is that, despite some struggles with physicality, that he will blossom into a multi-tool offensive asset.
“Kincaid should have no issue seeing the field early and often,” observes Bleacher Reports NFL scout Derrik Klassen. “He can align anywhere you can imagine putting a tight end. He is a plus athlete, he has elite catching skills, and he’s willing to get after it as a blocker. Kincaid’s age (already 23) and subpar weight/strength levels limit his ceiling a bit, but he’s a ready-made two-way contributor. Kincaid would serve best in a spread, vertical-focused offense that embraces his movement skills and blocking ability in space.
Michael Mayer, Notre Dame
At one time, Mayer was the player most connected to the Packers’ first round choice. The heat has cooled off a bit in that area, but, given how thin the team is at the position, he’s still a favorite to be drafted. Focused and tenacious, Mayer is a solid pass catcher and a strong run blocker with the mental and physical makeup of a top NFL starter.
“Michael Mayer is a consistent performer who does a great job of making contested catches out of his frame,” writes Kyle Stackpole of CBS Sports. “He lacks top-end athleticism and struggles to create separation as a result. Mayer is solid as a run blocker and in pass protection. He turns upfield quickly but does not have the breakaway speed to churn yards after the catch. Mayer is a bear for a defensive back to bring down in open space.”
