Getting Draft-y Around Here » Brats & Beer

January 10, 2006
posted under: NFL Draft, Packers

The 2060 NFL Draft is still three months away and a lot of players haven’t even declared for the pros, but the mock drafts are are already up and running. There seems to be an early consensus out on the Interweb that the Packers are going to take Ohio State star linebacker A.J. Hawk. No doubt about it, Hawk and Nick Barnett would make a fearsome duo behind the front four for the Green Bay defense, although I worry how sick I’ll get hearing about Hawk dating the sister of Notre Dame QB Brady Quinn.

Some other names surfacing that could be available at the fifth pick include Mario Williams, defensive end from North Carolina State, who would certainly provide some needed backup for Kampman and KGB. Another DE, Mathias Kiwanuka from Boston College, could also be available if Ted Thompson wants to focus on the D-line. Offensive tackle D’Brickashaw Ferguson out of Virginia might make a good pick early on for a team in need of QB protection and run support, or Virginia Tech corner Jimmy Williams could be attractive depending on whether or not you think Ahmad Carroll can continue to improve.

There some unexpected names on a few mock draft boards, though. Laurence Maroney, running back from Minnesota, turns up on one. The Gopher’s top rusher averaged 5.3 yards a carry for a total of 1,413 yards and 10 touchdowns this past season, and the Packers running back situation is a bit in flux, but I think it’s reaching to think Maroney is the solution. A more interesting twist on this theme comes from Mr. Lalasz at NoN who reports on a rumor that TT and his staff are considering using that fifth pick on USC running back LenDale White. He looked good in the Rose Bowl (save for the failed fourth and two attempt) and at 6′2″, 235 lbs. could make for bring some hammering punishment back to the Packer running game if Ahman Green doesn’t return.