Packers mock draft features trade back, Big Citrus and double dip at CB
Could the Packers trade back from 52, still get big help at DL and rebuild the CB position?
The Green Bay Packers will be waiting a long time to get on the clock during the 2026 NFL draft, but could general manager Brian Gutekunst trade back from No. 52 overall in the second round, build out his draft capital in the middle rounds and still attack his roster's biggest needs? In our latest seven-round simulation at PFF, we explored down this path.
Several good players remained on the board at No. 52 overall, and the Tennessee Titans were among the teams wanting to move up. Moving back and waiting longer might be tough for Gutekunst come Friday, but the wait could be worth it.
With extra capital from a trade back, the Packers were able to make a luxury pick at wide receiver, rebuild the cornerback room long-term and still find excellent fits at defensive tackle, running back, edge rusher and the offensive line in a nine-player class. Here's how the mock draft played out: Using the No. 52 overall pick on Iowa State's Domonique Orange might be a little too rich for Green Bay's taste, but it would make a lot more sense if the Packers could trade back into the 60s and gain some extra draft capital.
In this scenario, the Packers moved back 14 spots but gained a high fourth-round pick and turned their late seventh-round pick into a sixth rounder. With Orange still there at No. 66, the pick was an easy one.