Packers add key pieces for a defensive revamp in a 7-round mock draft that reshapes the unit for 2026

The Green Bay Packersdon't have a first-round pick in 2026, but that doesn't mean they can't make some solid bets to improve the roster. This is our first seven-round mock draft of the offseason, but there are many more to come until April.

In this first exercise, the first decision was to trade down. Because the Packers don't have a first, the idea was to create as many dart throws as possible — so we moved down from the second to the third round, getting another fourth-rounder back. The value wasn't that great here, but it's just an initial exercise to have more picks.

Round 3, Pick 73: Julian Neal, CB, Arkansas

The Packers need a reconstruction of their CB room, and Neal is a good piece for it. Athletic, aggressive, he is a 6-2, 200-pound defensive back who has intriguing ball skills.

Round 3, Pick 84: Carter Smith, T, Indiana

With Rasheed Walker set to hit free agency, Smith could be a new developmental tackle for the Packers. He's excellent in run blocking and has the awareness in pass protection, despite some struggles against speed and powerful rushers. He's played only at left tackle in college, but could have some potential to move inside in the NFL.

Round 4, Pick 120: Albert Regis, DT, Texas A&M

Regis' calling card is his run defense, which is particularly important for the Packers considering how this season shook out. He has the ability to occupy the middle of the line and is one of the top defensive line prospects of the class.

Round 4, Pick 132: Thaddeus Dixon, CB, North Carolina

If Julian Neal brings physicality, Dixon brings a lot of pure coverage ability. Although he's undersized, Dixon doesn't play like it, and his ability to shadow receivers is impressive.

Round 5, Pick 158: Le'Veon Moss, RB, Texas A&M

The Packers would love to have more RB depth, and Moss is a great complement to Josh Jacobs. He reads holes and attacks them with quickness and power. The big issue for Moss is the injury history, and the Packers might be scared of it after what happened to MarShawn Lloyd.

Round 6, Pick 200: Zane Durant, DT, Penn State

Durant is undersized to play on the interior, but his ability to disrupt plays is nearly unmatched for a sixth-round pick. His ability to affect offensive linemen helps both to generate pressure, but also to kill run plays.

Round 7, Pick 236: Miller Moss, QB, Louisville

With Malik Willis potentially moving on, Green Bay would love to create some competition for the backup spot. Moss is already 23 and has a lot of college experience. He played four years at USC before transferring to Louisville last season. With a quick release and decent accuracy, he can be a viable backup despite not having a special arm.

Round 7, Pick 254: RJ Maryland, TE, SMU

Maryland is 6-4, 233 pounds. He needs development as a run blocker, but he has the physical tools for it, and his body control is solid for the passing game. 

Round 7, Pick 257: Eric Gentry, LB, USC

Gentry is a speedster at off-ball linebacker, with some versatility to align as an edge and to play special teams. He's not a physical player, but his sideline to sideline quickness is notable.