Packers select Chris McClellan in the third round

Missouri defensive lineman Chris McClellan. Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Packers select Chris McClellan in the third round

Originally posted on PackersTalk.com | By Damon Sewell | Last updated Apr 24, 2026 11:10 PM ET

The Green Bay Packers traded up with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to select Chris McClellan, a defensive tackle out of Missouri, in the third round of the NFL Draft. The Packers traded picks 84 and 160 to acquire pick 76 to add the nose tackle. This was after selecting Brandon Cisse in the second round earlier in the night.

Breaking analysis:

The 6-foot-4, 313-pound, 22-year-old defensive tackle is a physically imposing interior defensive lineman. He has the ideal size, length and strength. McClellan moves well for his size. He can also generate interior pressure with power and technique, and has steadily improved his run recognition. He’s durable, consistent, and brings solid effort and reliability.

However, he lacks elite burst and can play too high. Which, of course, limits his ability to shed blocks and consistently disrupt plays. His pass rush relies more on strength than refined technique, and he can struggle with lateral movement and block control.

Packers team fit:

Green Bay needed to add some depth to its defensive line, especially at the nose tackle position. They were able to do this with the addition of Chris McClellan. Though some people might wonder why the Packers wouldn’t have selected Dominque Orange instead of McClellan, it is important to know that McClellan was second team All-SEC while Orange was just Third Team All-Big 12.

McClellan has improved every year in college and will continue to do so playing for the Packers. He is known to be a decent run stuffer while posting 48 tackles and 8 tackles for a loss last season.

In 2025, Chris Mclellan had six sacks from the interior of the defensive line and will continue to improve in his pass-rushing capabilities with Green Bay.