“You only have 30 and that’s not very many and they’re very valuable to us. So it’s usually just trying to answer something that you don’t feel you have answered.” Green Bay Packers’s General Manager, Brian Gutekunst, is pretty sure what he wants from every NFL Draft. Every year, the Packers get 30 chances. Thirty visits to bring in NFL Draft prospects, sit them down, and figure out what the tape doesn’t show. Matt LaFleur and his Packers are exactly going to do this while finding the right player for their gaps.

We all know that Matt LaFleur and the Packers are in dire need to fill gaps in multiple positions. Be it wide receiver, cornerbacks, pass rushers (interior or edge), or other offensive or defensive depths – the Green and Gold have a chance to fill these holes, as they are heading to the 2025 NFL Draft with eight picks in hand, including a compensatory pick in the seventh round. So, the question is who they might target this time. Here are two potential prospects for each round!

First Prospect: Round 1 (No. 19 overall): Matthew Golden, WR, Texas

Matt LaFleur and the Packers signed Mecole Hardman to help fill the gap left by Christian Watson’s knee injury. But they still need a long-term solution at wide receiver. That’s where Matthew Golden comes in. The 6-foot, 190-pound Golden’s speed and ability to make tough catches downfield make him a serious playmaker. Many mock drafts link him to Green Bay as a potential first-round pick.

Golden’s route-running and explosiveness could give the Packers’s passing game a much-needed boost. His strong finish to the 2024 season, where he averaged 17.0 yards per catch and had 9 receiving touchdowns for the Longhorns, makes him a standout and top WR prospect. In addition, his stats combined with an impressive showing at the combine, (with a 4.29-second 40-yard dash while reaching a top speed of 23.57 miles per hour) have only increased his value. According to USA TODAY’s Ayrton Ostly, Green Bay has plenty of receivers, but none have truly taken over as the go-to player. Golden could be that missing piece – a stabilizing force in the Packers’s offense.

Second Prospect: Round 1 (No. 19 overall): Emeka Egbuka, WR, Ohio State

Behind Matthew Golden can be WR Emeka Egbuka from Ohio State. Egbuka isn’t the flashiest receiver in this draft, but he’s one of the smartest and most polished. This 6’1” 205 lbs player spent four seasons at Ohio surrounded by elite talent, playing alongside multiple first-round picks (such as Marvin Harrison Jr., Garrett Wilson, and Jaxon Smith-Njigba). Despite that, he still made his mark, finishing as the school’s all-time leader in receptions (205) and second in receiving yards (2,868).

Some might overlook Egbuka because he’s been a well-known prospect for years, but that would be a mistake. He’s reliable, versatile, and has a high floor. He consistently wins contested catches and knows how to get open. CBS Sports’s Tom Fornelli puts it simply: Matt LaFleur’s Packers have taken chances on raw athletic traits before, and it hasn’t always worked. This time, they might just go for a receiver who can flat-out play.

Other than them, Matt LaFleur and the team could also go for top CB Jahdae Barron or Shavon Revel Jr. In addition, the edge defenders such as Donovan Ezeiruaku, Mike Green, Shemar Stewart, and Mykel Williams, are also speculated to be picked in Round 1.

First Prospect: Round 2 (No. 54 overall): Derrick Harmon, DT, Oregon Ducks

Derrick Harmon is built for the big stage. His power, technique, and relentless drive make him a nightmare for offensive lines. This 6’5” 310 lbs player started at Michigan State but truly found his groove after transferring to Oregon. In just one season, he dominated –13 starts, 10.5 tackles for loss, and five sacks. Indeed, his impact was impossible to ignore.

Even his teammate Jordan Burch saw it firsthand. That’s why the Burch is a fan of his friend, calling him “a dawg. He’s just, you know, relentless at practice, the mindset he has, and he can do it all. So he’s a great pass rusher, great run stopper.” That hunger sets Harmon apart. And why shouldn’t it? After all, the 21-year-old studies Chris Jones, mimicking his hand techniques, always looking for an edge. While revealing his fandom for Jones, he said, “I watched Chris Jones. How he grabs the wrist, grabs elbow, so quick. That comes natural to me just like it comes natural to him.” And of course, NFL teams love players like him – disruptors who change the game. That’s why he won’t have to wait long on draft night. Expect his name to be called late in the first or early in the second round.

Second Prospect: Round 2 (No. 54 overall): Shemar Stewart, Edge, Texas A&M

Shemar Stewart has all the tools to be a game-changer. His size, speed, and raw power make him one of the most intriguing prospects in this draft. At 6-foot-5 and 267 pounds, he ran an eye-popping 4.59-second 40-yard dash, earning a perfect 10.0 Relative Athletic Score. That kind of athleticism doesn’t come around often.

Stewart’s sack numbers at Texas A&M weren’t flashy – just 1.5 per season. But that doesn’t tell the whole story. He led the team in pressures last year (39) and showed his dominance at the Senior Bowl. For some analysts, he even is a top-round pick. But as per the overall analysis, this player could be a late-round pick or an early-round pick by Matt LaFleur’s Packers. NFL teams love traits, and Stewart has them in abundance. He’s explosive off the line, powerful at the point of attack, and flexible enough to win against elite blockers.

His best football is still ahead, and Green Bay could be the perfect place for him to unlock his full potential. Other than them, some think WR Jayden Higgins from Iowa State could be the second-round pick here.

First Prospect: Round 3 (No. 87 overall): Travis Hunter, wide receiver/cornerback, Colorado

Although the Giants are speculated to pick Travis Hunter, Matt LaFleur’s Green Bay too is considered as a great fit for the player. No doubt, Hunter is a rare talent. His ability to play both cornerback and wide receiver makes him a perfect fit for a team like the Packers, who have needs at both positions.
At cornerback, his instincts and ball skills stand out. He can lock down receivers in man coverage, track the ball on deep throws, and make impact plays even when chasing from behind.

The 6’1” 188 lb player’s athleticism makes him a nightmare for quarterbacks. If a throw isn’t perfect, Hunter is right there to disrupt it. His aggressiveness in zone coverage and willingness to take risks make him an exciting prospect. He’s not just a great athlete – he’s a playmaker. With Jaire Alexander‘s future in Green Bay uncertain, Hunter could step in as the CB1 the team desperately needs.

Second Prospect: Round 3 (No. 87 overall): Maxwell Hairston, CB, Kentucky

Maxwell Hairston could be a major asset for Matt LaFleur’s Green Bay secondary. His playmaking ability and coverage instincts made him one of the most productive cornerbacks in college football in 2023. With five interceptions and two returned for touchdowns, the 6’1” 186lb player proved he has a nose for the football.

Hairston thrives in zone coverage, where his instincts and quick reactions allow him to jump routes and create turnovers. He always seems to be in the right place at the right time, tracking deep balls and capitalizing on tips and overthrows. His ball skills stand out, making him a constant threat to opposing quarterbacks. Speed is another key factor here. Running a blazing 4.28-second 40-yard dash at the combine, the 21-year-old has the speed to keep up with any receiver.

With questions surrounding Jaire Alexander‘s future in Green Bay, Hairston could be the perfect addition. He’s a dynamic, turnover-creating corner who fits well in a zone-heavy scheme. Matt LaFleur’s Packers need playmakers in the secondary, and Hairston has already proven he can be one.

Other than them, day 3 could also see a linebacker being selected by the Packers. It’s because players such as Carson Bruener, Jack Kiser, Cody Simon, and Jackson Woodard, are all considered to be third-round picks.

First Prospect: Round 4 (No. 124 overall): Kelvin Banks Jr., OL, Texas

Kelvin Banks Jr. is a first-round talent with the skills to boost Green Bay’s offensive line. He’s strong, athletic, and built to protect Jordan Love while opening lanes for the run game. But since he’s the fourth-best tackle prospect, he could slide to the fourth round. At Texas, Banks helped transform the offensive line. Before he arrived, they struggled up front. But later, his impact helped push the Longhorns into playoff contention, making him a key piece in their resurgence.

Banks moves effortlessly, climbs to the second level with ease, and has powerful hands to control defenders. In pass protection, his quick feet and smooth technique make him tough to beat. Over 42 starts, he allowed just one sack and 10 pressures, proving his ability to handle elite pass rushers.

Matt LaFleur’s Packers need to plan for the future. Zach Tom, Rasheed Walker, and Sean Rhyan are all in contract years. Green Bay will likely prioritize re-signing Tom, but the other two? That’s up in the air. If Banks is available when the Packers are on the clock, his talent might be too good to pass up. He’s young, gifted, and built to be a franchise left tackle.

Second Prospect: Round 4 (No. 124 overall): Josh Simmons, OT, Ohio State

Josh Simmons could be a game-changer for Green Bay’s offensive line. Once seen as a top-12 pick, his stock fell after a knee injury. But his talent is still undeniable. If he’s there when the Packers are on the clock, they might not be able to resist. Simmons started at San Diego State before transferring to Ohio State, where he played left tackle. He’s quick, strong, and nearly impossible to beat in pass protection. His footwork is smooth, and his hands are precise. Even when he loses a step, he recovers fast.

In the run game, the 6’5” 310 lb athlete is just as solid. He holds the line, moves defenders, and creates lanes. His wide frame helps him absorb hits, but he also knows how to fight back against rushers. Right now, tackle isn’t Green Bay’s biggest need. But things change fast in the NFL. If they don’t extend Rasheed Walker, Simmons could be the guy in 2026. GM Brian Gutekunst keeps talking about getting stronger in the trenches. Simmons fits that plan perfectly. If he’s available, it could be a no-brainer.

First Prospect: Round 5 (No. 157 overall): Zy Alexander, CB, LSU

Zy Alexander could be exactly what the Packers need in the secondary. He’s got the size, instincts, and ball skills to make an impact. At 6-foot-1, he’s built for the boundary, using his length to disrupt passes and shrink-throwing windows. He’s a true playmaker. With 13 career interceptions, he knows how to attack the football. Over the last two seasons, he’s added four more picks and 11 pass deflections, proving he can challenge receivers and shut down plays.

Furthermore, his movement is smooth. He mirrors routes, sticks to his man, and doesn’t lose ground easily. So, quarterbacks have to think twice before testing him. Cornerback is a real concern for Matt LaFleur‘s Green Bay. And doubling down at the position could be the right move. In short, Alexander’s skill set brings depth, versatility, and the kind of playmaking Matt LaFleur and the Packers desperately need.

Second Prospect: Round 5 (No. 157 overall): Davison Igbinosun, CB, Ohio State

The Packers need help in the secondary, and Davison Igbinosun could be the answer. At 6-foot-2, he’s got the size, speed, and range to match up with any receiver. With two corners likely leaving, the pass defense needs reinforcements. Igbinosun has the raw talent to step in and compete. He’s still developing, but the upside is undeniable. With the right coaching in Matt LaFleur’s team, he could turn into a lockdown corner.

His versatility makes him even more valuable. Whether it’s covering quick slot receivers or battling big targets on the outside, he’s built for the challenge. The Packers need fresh playmakers, and Igbinosun has the potential to be one.

Round 6 (No. 198 overall): Azareye’h Thomas, CB, Florida

Azareye’h Thomas has everything you want in a corner – size, length, and raw athleticism. At 6’1″ and 191 pounds, he’s built to battle receivers and make life difficult for quarterbacks. Some positives are that his ball skills pop on tape. He tracks passes like a wide receiver and knows how to disrupt at the catch point. In addition, he’s physical at the line, but his press technique is still a work in progress. Sometimes, he gets too grabby in coverage, which could be a concern at the next level.

But against the run, he doesn’t hesitate. He attacks downhill, takes on blockers, and wraps up well. But his angles can be hit or miss, leaving openings for runners to exploit. Thomas fits best in a press or zone-heavy scheme where he can use his length and instincts to shut down passing lanes. He’s not a finished product, but with the right coaching, he could become a major weapon in an NFL secondary.

Round 7 (No. 237 overall): Aireontae Ersery, OT, Minnesota

Aireontae Ersery isn’t the flashiest name in the 2025 draft class, but he’s got the tools to surprise people. The offensive line group this year isn’t overflowing with superstars, but it’s filled with guys who could turn into solid starters, Ersery included.

At Minnesota, he held down the left tackle spot with strength and sharp footwork. Some teams might see him as a better fit on the right side, but that just adds to his value. His versatility, power, and technique make him a smart pick for any team looking to build depth and protect their quarterback. He’s not the biggest name, but he might just be one of the biggest steals.

Round 8 (No. 250 overall): Marcus Wehr, IOL, Montana State

Marcus Wehr moves like a natural in space. He’s quick, controlled, and always finds his target when climbing to the second level. His strength is pure power! As a run blocker, he doesn’t just engage defenders, he also overwhelms them. But that’s not all about him.

Wehr isn’t just strong. He’s smart. He understands angles, knows where to place his hands, and uses his burst to dominate the line. Since switching to offense in 2022, he hasn’t allowed a single sack. That’s no fluke. For instance, this season, locked in at right guard, as he gave up just four pressures. No doubt, his hands are fast, his punch is fierce, and he knows how to anchor against power. At the East-West Shrine Bowl, he stood out. Now, he’s ready to compete, battling for a roster spot in Matt LaFleur’s eight-round pick.

The Packers have always played the long game. Brian Gutekunst, like his predecessor Ted Thompson, isn’t just focused on the present – he’s building for the future. Look at history. Thompson saw something in Aaron Rodgers when Brett Favre was still the guy. Years later, Gutekunst did the same with Jordan Love while Aaron was at the top of his game. These weren’t just safe moves. They were bold, calculated decisions to keep the Packers competitive for years to come. The same will happen this time too. This year’s NFL Draft is scheduled to kick off on April 24, projecting Round 1; April 25: Rounds 2-3; and April 26: Rounds 4-7.