2016 NFL Mock Draft: Holiday Update
By Jon Dove
27. Green Bay Packers (9-4)- Su’a Cravens, LB, USC
The Green Bay Packers are lucky they have someone like Clay Matthews who is versatile and unselfish enough to switch position. His move to inside linebacker has kept this defense together, but it’s not ideal. Matthews is at his best when on the outside rushing the quarterback.
Green Bay needs to focus on bringing in a young inside linebacker capable of allowing Matthews to move back outside. USC’s Su’a Cravens would be an interesting fit and someone the Packers should consider.
Cravens is a terrific athlete who would be considered undersized as an inside linebacker. However, he plays with power and isn’t afraid of contact. His commitment to keeping his pads down and using his hands allows him to take on blocks.
The Arizona Cardinals have shown that smaller players can succeed at linebacker thanks their decision to move Deone Buccannon from safety. Cravens is a similar player to Buccannon but actually has better size and bulk.
Green Bay has to be disappointed in the lack of development of their young receivers like Davante Adams, Jared Abbrederis and Jeff Janis. They might be forced to use an early draft pick to bring in another pass catcher.
James Jones isn’t going to last much longer and it may take some time for Jordy Nelson to get back to full strength.
Next: No. 28 Denver