Packers Address Roster Needs Through Free Agency and the Draft

The Green Bay Packers are working to rebuild their roster and contend for a championship. Despite addressing some key positions, attrition has created new needs, particularly at defensive tackle, cornerback, edge rusher, and on the offensive line. This article examines potential solutions through both free agency and the upcoming NFL Draft.

Defensive Tackle: A Veteran Presence

D.J. Reader as a Free Agent Option

Sometimes, free agency offers immediate solutions. Veteran defensive tackle D.J. Reader, despite not fitting the Packers’ typical free agent profile, could fill a significant need at nose tackle within their 3-4 defensive scheme under new coordinator Jonathan Gannon. Reader, who will turn 32 in July, started 32 of 34 games for the Lions the past two seasons.

The Packers currently lack a clear starter at nose tackle, with Nazir Stackhouse or Jonathan Ford potentially filling the role. Signing Reader could avoid relying on unproven players to anchor the defense. The Packers may need to consider if sacrificing a compensatory draft pick is worthwhile to secure his services, given their potential gains from departing players like Romeo Doubs and Kingsley Enagbare.

Drafting Defensive Line Talent

Christen Miller: A Potential Second-Round Pick

Georgia’s Christen Miller presents a potential fit in the second round. He’s a powerful defensive lineman who improved throughout his college career, and Packers General Manager Brian Gutekunst has a history of drafting players from his alma mater. However, Miller lacks a complete athletic profile, which Gutekunst typically values.

Alternative Options: Chris McClellan

If the Packers prioritize disruptive play over a traditional nose tackle, Chris McClellan from Missouri could be an option. McClellan recorded six sacks and eight tackles for loss in 2025, but his agility numbers are lower than the Packers usually prefer. He could be a viable Day 3 pick.

Cornerback: Addressing Depth and Quality

Chris Johnson: A Rising Prospect

San Diego State’s Chris Johnson is gaining draft momentum and could be a valuable addition to the Packers’ cornerback room. He has the potential to compete with Keisean Nixon, Carrington Valentine, and Benjamin St. Juste for playing time. The Packers haven’t drafted a cornerback above the seventh round since Eric Stokes in 2021.

Muhammad and Everette: Day 2 & 3 Options

Texas’s Jalen Muhammad, though slightly undersized at 182 pounds, gained weight to 190 pounds and possesses competitiveness and ball skills (two interceptions, six passes defended in his final season). Daylen Everette, with his size (6’1”, 196 lbs) and speed (4.38 40-yard dash), excels in zone coverage and could contribute on Day 3.

Edge Rusher: Filling the Void

Joey Bosa: A Potential Free Agent Addition

With the departures of Rashan Gary and Kingsley Enagbare, the Packers need to bolster their pass rush. While Khali Mack re-signed with the Chargers, Joey Bosa could be a fit. Despite his age, Bosa still possesses a strong motor and recorded five sacks and five forced fumbles last season. He could complement Micah Parsons.

The Packers have a history of investing in their pass rush, bringing in Za’Darius and Preston Smith in free agency and drafting Rashan Gary and Lukas Van Ness. They traded two first-round picks for Parsons, demonstrating their commitment to this position.