Green Bay Packers: A Strong Offseason and Draft Strategy for 2025

Evaluating the 2024 Season

The Green Bay Packers concluded their 2024 season with an 11-6 record, securing a spot in the Wild Card round of the NFL Playoffs. While their performance demonstrated promise, gaps in their roster remain evident. Competing in the highly competitive NFC North, the Packers must address their weaknesses through free agency and the 2025 NFL Draft to maintain their standing as a formidable contender in the conference.

Offensive Performance and Areas of Improvement

The Packers boasted an offense that averaged over 370 yards and 27 points per game in 2024. However, running back Josh Jacobs recently commented on the team’s receiving corps, emphasizing the need for a proven No. 1 wide receiver. His concerns are valid, as leading receiver Jayden Reed recorded only 857 yards and six touchdowns—a respectable performance but not that of a top-tier, game-changing receiver. Additionally, Christian Watson struggled with injuries, making his availability for 2025 uncertain. Given these circumstances, acquiring a high-caliber wide receiver is crucial.

Exploring Trade and Draft Options

The Packers have been linked to potential trade targets such as Cooper Kupp, highlighting their intent to strengthen the receiving unit. Simultaneously, the PFF Mock Draft Simulator suggests that Green Bay could prioritize selecting a receiver in the first round—something they haven’t done since 2002. This draft scenario has the Packers making several key selections to address their needs.

First-Round Pick: Matthew Golden, WR, Texas

With the 23rd overall pick, the Packers select Matthew Golden, a standout wide receiver from Texas. Known for his speed and deep-ball threat capabilities, Golden amassed 987 yards and nine touchdowns in his 2024 season. His ability to stretch the field and create separation makes him an ideal candidate to become Jordan Love’s primary target. While he excels in speed and route running, he must develop physicality to contend with aggressive NFL cornerbacks. Nonetheless, his skill set aligns well with the Packers’ offensive needs.

Second-Round Pick: Carson Schwesinger, LB, UCLA

Turning to the defensive side, the Packers use their 55th pick on UCLA linebacker Carson Schwesinger. Although slightly undersized at 6-foot-2 and 225 pounds, Schwesinger has proven to be a tackling machine. In his final collegiate season, he led Division I football with 90 solo tackles and recorded a total of 136. His aggressive approach, combined with strong coverage skills, makes him a valuable asset to Green Bay’s defense. Pairing him with rookie standout Edgerrin Cooper could significantly bolster the Packers’ linebacker corps.

Third-Round Pick: Tre Harris, WR, Ole Miss

With their 87th overall pick, the Packers reinforce their receiving corps by selecting Tre Harris from Ole Miss. At 6-foot-3 and 210 pounds, Harris provides a much-needed physical presence. His ability to win contested catches and dominate in the red zone makes him a strong candidate to complement Matthew Golden. While some analysts believe Harris could be a first-round talent, landing him in the third round would be a major win for Green Bay.

Building for the Future

The Packers’ draft strategy, as predicted by the PFF Mock Draft Simulator, directly addresses their most pressing needs. By securing two promising wide receivers and a talented linebacker, Green Bay positions itself for continued success in 2025. Whether through trades, free agency, or the draft, the Packers must ensure they provide Jordan Love with the necessary tools to thrive while strengthening their defensive core.

As the offseason unfolds, Green Bay fans can remain optimistic about their team’s future. With strategic acquisitions and a well-executed draft, the Packers have the potential to solidify their position as one of the NFC’s premier teams.