WTF? Green Bay Takes Justin Harrell » Brats & Beer

April 28, 2007
posted under: Justin Harrell, NFL Draft, Packers, Ted Thompson

Oh, that crafty Ted Thompson, always zigging when everyone else is zagging.

Defying all predictions and tea leaf readings, the Packers general manager selected defensive tackle Justin Harrell with the 16th pick of the NFL Draft. I’m not sure what to think of our draft day guru now. Harrell played for Tennessee and was well regarded nationally but blew out his biceps tendon last year and missed 10 games. He wasn’t the best player left on the board, he wasn’t even expected to go in the top 20. So I’m not sure if the Bills taking Marshawn Lynch with the 12th pick messed everything up or what, but it seems like we left a lot of talent on the board such as tight end Greg Oslen, corner back Leon Hall, and wide receiver Robert Meachem.

Even looking at the team needs, I don’t really get this pick. The defensive line can always need upgrading, but the offense is really where the Packers need the help, especially at tight end, running back, and wide receiver. I just doubt that Harrell is going to make an immediate impact like Olsen or maybe Meacham would have.

On the bright side, I’m glad TT and company didn’t get stuck with a high-priced running back like Lynch: there should be plenty of talent later in the draft. And they (somehow) resisted the temptation to take Brady Quinn, who’s sulking in the commissioner’s private box right now after getting dissed by Miami.

Hmm, looks like there will be much ruminating on this one, and the draft has a long way to go, so I’m not ready to toss in the towel on TT just yet. But I am very concerned.

Update: Railbird Central points out Pat Kirwan of NFL.com called this pick. All hail the great sage Kirwan.