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  • Is Mike Florio a Genius or Out of Touch? His Packers Mock Pick Explained

    Is Mike Florio a Genius or Out of Touch? His Packers Mock Pick Explained

    As the NFL Draft approaches, the mock drafts are coming out. But while most mock drafts focus on needs or holes in the roster, Mike Florio went completely off the rails with his Packers pick. Fans are scratching their heads and wondering if it’s genius or lunacy.

    Mike Florio’s Crazy Mock Draft Pick: Malaki Starks to the Packers

    Florio, who knows the league better than most, went with a wild card in his only mock of the year. Instead of a wide receiver like Steelers star George Pickens (who many have been begging for), Florio has the Packers taking Georgia safety Malaki Starks—a player who fits with the Packers… not so much.

    The Packers already have one of the deepest safety groups in the league. Last offseason, they signed All-Pro safety Xavier McKinney and drafted three more safeties, including Evan Williams, who started right away. Second year safety Javon Bullard, a former 2nd round pick, is now fighting for snaps after losing his starting job last season. With free agent Nate Hobbs likely to step into the slot role, where does Starks even fit?

    Why This Pick Feels Weird

    Starks is good. A 2x All-American from Georgia, he brings experience and leadership to any defense. But his skillset doesn’t scream “need” for the Packers. 4.50 40 yard dash, he’s not elite athletic enough to move to corner (something the Packers did with Damarious Randall years ago). And with how deep the Packers are at safety and slot, adding another body here feels like overkill.

    So the question is: are the Packers building a football team or just collecting talent for the sake of collecting talent? Fans love seeing their favorite college stars in green and gold but drafting someone like Starks would feel like a luxury rather than a necessity.

    Fan Reaction: Outrage or Genius?

    If Florio’s right, Packers fans will riot faster than you can say “draft grades.” The idea of using a high pick on a position already loaded with depth will be met with outrage. Imagine the backlash if general manager Brian Gutekunst passes on high priority targets like wide receivers or edge rushers to take another safety. Some fans will call for his head or even a citizens’ arrest.

    But let’s not dismiss Florio’s pick outright. Maybe there’s a method to the madness. Could Starks be a chess piece that can evolve into something more than just a traditional safety, Or is Florio just trolling us all less than 24 hours before the draft?

    Other Needs: Enter George Pickens?

    Florio’s pick raises an eyebrow, but it also highlights what many fans really want: a big trade for Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens. With the Packers needing a playmaker opposite Christian Watson, Pickens would instantly make the offense better and give Jordan Love the weapons he needs.

    Unlike Starks, Pickens fills a need. His big play ability, physicality, and contested catch skills make him a perfect complement to Watson. If the Packers are serious about competing in 2025, trading for Pickens or drafting a wideout seems way more logical than doubling down on safeties.

  • The Packers’ Next Big Move? Targeting Steelers WR George Pickens

    The Packers’ Next Big Move? Targeting Steelers WR George Pickens

    The Green Bay Packers are “serious” about getting Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens, according to FOX Sports’ Jordan Schultz. Pickens is in the final year of his rookie deal and the Steelers just locked up DK Metcalf with a $132 million extension. Will they pay market value to keep Pickens around?

    Packers Show Serious Interest in Steelers’ George Pickens

    Pickens was drafted by the Steelers in 2021 and has 2,841 receiving yards in three NFL seasons. He’s big, fast, and a big play threat. The Packers need a target for Jordan Love, and Pickens is an interesting option. But the Steelers might not want to get rid of him unless they can’t afford to keep him long term.

    After signing DK Metcalf to a $132 million extension, questions remain if they will pay top dollar for Pickens, too. If they can’t match the market for both receivers, moving Pickens might be the move, and the Packers are ready to pounce.

    A Missed Opportunity in 2021?

    This isn’t the first time the Packers have shown interest in Pickens. In 2021 they brought him in for a pre-draft visit but chose to trade up for Christian Watson instead. Watson has shown flashes of brilliance but injuries (most recently an ACL tear) have limited his availability and impact.

    For Packers fans, it feels like a missed opportunity now. And to add insult to injury Watson’s health issues have left the team searching for reliable options at wide receiver. Could getting Pickens finally give the offense the stability and firepower it needs?

    What Would It Take to Get Pickens?

    Schultz’s reporting says the Packers are serious about getting Pickens, but a draft week trade isn’t a slam dunk. Timing is everything, especially with physicals and finalizing terms. And any deal would likely require the Packers to give up draft capital—a big price to pay for a player who hasn’t signed a long term deal yet.

    If the Packers do get Pickens, he’d likely sign an extension with his new team. According to Spotrac, Pickens’ projected deal would be 4 years, $94.3 million. That’s a big investment in a player who’s a cornerstone for the future.

    Is Schultz Reliable? A Word of Caution

    Before Packers fans get too hyped, let’s not forget that Schultz’s track record isn’t perfect. He previously predicted Odell Beckham Jr. would come to Green Bay multiple times—a move that never happened. He also way overestimated the number of players at the NFL Draft, saying 8-10 would show up when 18 did.

    While Schultz’s report on Pickens is interesting, skepticism is warranted until we see some actual progress. But the mere possibility of this trade has the NFL world buzzing.

    Why This Trade Makes Sense for Both Teams?

    For the Packers, getting Pickens addresses a huge need at wide receiver and gives Jordan Love a real target to grow with. For the Steelers, moving Pickens frees up resources to focus on other areas of need if they’ve already committed big money to Metcalf.

    But trading during draft week is no easy task. Teams have to navigate the timing, negotiate fair compensation, and get all the medicals done. It’s unlikely—but not impossible—that a deal gets done before the draft ends.

  • Packers Boost Vertical Passing Game in PFF’s Seven-Round Mock Draft

    Packers Boost Vertical Passing Game in PFF’s Seven-Round Mock Draft

    While many fans and analysts have been calling for the Green Bay Packers to address their wide receiver needs early in the draft, Pro Football Focus (PFF) sees things differently. In their latest seven-round mock draft, PFF has the Packers selecting Texas A&M edge rusher Shemar Stewart with the 23rd overall pick, passing on a flashy wide receiver.

    Why Shemar Stewart Fits the Packers’ Plan?

    According to PFF analyst Jon Macri, who played the role of Packers GM Brian Gutekunst in the mock draft, Stewart was chosen as part of a long-term plan to build the defensive front.

    “The Packers grab another young, athletic edge to develop in a similar path to Rashan Gary,” Macri said. “They won’t have to thrust Stewart into an immediate starting role, as he can rotate with 2023 first-round pick Lukas Van Ness and Kingsley Enagbare.”

    Stewart’s appeal is his elite run-stopping ability. His 88.2 PFF run-defense grade in 2024 was 5th among all edge defenders in college football, showing he’s a beast against the run. But his lack of pass rushing production— 4.5 sacks over three seasons— has raised some questions.

    Gutekunst addressed the concerns about Stewart’s college stats during his pre-draft press conference. “If a player didn’t have the kind of production that you think he should at the college level, there’s a lot of discussion about why that was and if you think that will change as he moves forward,” he said.

    So the Packers are betting on Stewart’s athleticism and potential to become a more complete player under NFL coaching.

    Addressing the Receiver Void: Tre Harris Joins the Mix

    The Packers passed on a receiver in the first round but didn’t wait long to add some juice to their offense. Mississippi wideout Tre Harris was taken in the second round and brings explosiveness and reliability to the Packers’ receiving corps.

    Despite playing only 8 games due to a groin injury, Harris put up crazy numbers: 60 catches for 1,030 yards (17.2 average) and 7 touchdowns. His 128.8 yards per game was 10 yards more than the next closest player.

    “Harris was productive in Ole Miss’ vertical passing game the last two years, he’s a great fit in Green Bay,” Macri said. “The Packers were 2nd in deep attempt rate (16%) last year, Harris can bring value as a deep threat right away.”

    At 6-foot-2 3/8 with 4.54 speed, Harris isn’t a burner but he can win downfield. He caught 9-of-16 passes thrown 20-plus yards , he can stretch the defense vertically—a big missing piece since Christian Watson.

    Versatility on the Offensive Line: Marcus Mbow Steps In

    In the 3rd round the Packers added Marcus Mbow from Purdue, a versatile OL who reminds many of Zach Tom. Mbow is a valuable asset for the Packers’ OL depth chart.

    “He can start at all 5 positions but must improve his pad level to play center,” PFF said in their scouting report.

    Mbow allowed 0 sacks as Purdue’s right guard in 2022 and only 4 sacks combined the last 2 years as a tackle. With 32 1/2 inch arms he might project best as an interior lineman, maybe even center.

    Day 3 Picks Wrap Up the Roster

    On Day 3, the Packers added depth at multiple positions:

    • Fourth Round: Clemson linebacker Barrett Carter
    • Fifth Round: Iowa safety Sebastian Castro
    • Sixth Round: Oregon quarterback Dillon Gabriel
    • Seventh Round: East Carolina receiver Efton Chism and Florida cornerback Jason Marshall

    Barrett Carter may be small (5’10 3/4), but he’s versatile and tough at linebacker. Sebastian Castro adds depth to a safety room that’s now crowded after Xavier McKinney and last year’s draft class.

    The pick of Dillon Gabriel in the sixth round raised some eyebrows given his height (5’11 1/8) and limited ceiling compared to taller guys like Syracuse’s Kyle McCord. But the Packers may see him as a low risk behind Jordan Love.

    Efton Chism, a first-team FCS All-American, adds slot receiver depth after 120 receptions for 1,311 yards and 13 touchdowns in 2024. He’s not big (5’10 1/2, 4.71 40-yard dash) but he’s got sure hands and is a reliable target.

    Finally, Jason Marshall, an experienced SEC corner, rounds out the draft class with upside after his predraft visit with Green Bay..

  • Jordan Love Says Aaron Rodgers “Has Got Some More Years in the Tank”

    Jordan Love Says Aaron Rodgers “Has Got Some More Years in the Tank”

    The Aaron Rodgers debate rages on but one voice is loud and clear in his corner—his former backup, Jordan Love. The Green Bay Packers current starting quarterback recently spoke about Rodgers’ potential return for 2025 and thinks he’s got some more in the tank.

    Jordan Love Weighs in on Aaron Rodgers’ Future

    Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love spoke with Kay Adams on Thursday about Aaron Rodgers’ uncertain future. Love thinks he’s still got some more years left.

    “That was my guy coming into the league so I’d hate to see him go,” Love said. “But he’s had an amazing, amazing career – definitely a Hall of Famer. We’ll see. I don’t think he’s done.”

    Love’s comments come as the world waits with bated breath to see if Rodgers will return for the 2025 season or hang up his cleats for good. He was mum on his plans during his recent appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, but did leave the door open for retirement—albeit not fully.

    Rodgers’ Latest on His NFL Future

    On the show, Rodgers said he’s keeping all options open.

    “I’m open to anything and attached to nothing. Retirement could still be a possibility.”

    He also said personal stuff is a big part of his decision making. He’s taking his time and hasn’t been pressured by the Pittsburgh Steelers or any other team to rush.

    Rodgers said he’s not trying to “hold teams hostage” while he figures things out. But given his track record and experience, many think his presence could help a contender in need of a veteran quarterback.

    A Look Back at Rodgers’ 2024 Season

    In 2024, Rodgers played his second and final season with the New York Jets. He had some tough times but overall had a solid year, 63% completion percentage, 3,897 yards, 28 TDs, 11 INTs. The Jets cut him in February and decided to rebuild around younger players.

    Could Pittsburgh Be Rodgers’ Next Stop?

    If he plays, Pittsburgh is the most likely destination for Rodgers. Right now they have Mason Rudolph and Skylar Thompson on the roster—a duo that can’t carry the franchise.

    With the 21st overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, Pittsburgh is reportedly considering Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders according to USA TODAY Sports’ Nate Davis. But if Rodgers signs, they might pivot and go elsewhere, lean on the veteran to stabilize the offense.

    What’s Next for Rodgers?

    While he decides, we wait. Will he play another season or walk away from the game altogether? One thing is for sure: Whatever he decides will be the narrative for one of the greatest careers in NFL history.

  • Packers’ Offense Could Revolve Around Tight Ends in 2025, Led by Tucker Kraft

    Packers’ Offense Could Revolve Around Tight Ends in 2025, Led by Tucker Kraft

    As the 2025 season approaches, head coach Matt LaFleur is counting on the tight end position to be the anchor of the offense. Tucker Kraft and Luke Musgrave are leading the charge. Kraft is the rising star and Musgrave is looking to bounce back from a string of injuries. They’re counting on their tight ends to redefine the passing game – and maybe the entire offense.

    LaFleur has hinted at some creative schemes to get both players involved, especially Kraft who had a breakout 2024 with 50 receptions for 707 yards and 7 touchdowns. Musgrave started his career with promise but was sidelined by injuries and is looking to get back to being a dynamic weapon in the Packers’ arsenal.

    “We’re excited to see what we can do schematically,” LaFleur said earlier this offseason. “Both Tuck and Luke run really well so it’s on us as a staff to get creative and find ways to get shots downfield.”

    Tucker Kraft: The Rising Star

    At 24, Tucker Kraft is already the kind of player you want to build your offense around. He’s 6-foot-5, 259 pounds of size, speed and athleticism—rarely seen in one package. That makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses.

    But Kraft wants to be a leader off the field as much as he is on it. “I want to lead with my play style, and with my words,” he said during the Packers’ recent Tailgate Tour. “We’ve got a good group of guys who really do look out for each other. I’m ready to take on more responsibility—and to help others do the same.”

    Kraft’s chemistry with Musgrave has been evident in the way they’ve spent hours working out together this offseason—on the field and on the pickleball court. You can see the bond they’re forming in the way they move together, anticipate each other’s moves. That chemistry will be crucial this season.

    Luke Musgrave: A Comeback Story?

    Musgrave’s career has had flashes of brilliance and frustrating setbacks. After a promising rookie season where he caught 34 passes for 352 yards and a touchdown, his momentum was derailed by a lacerated kidney. Then came the ankle injury last year which limited him to 7 catches in 10 games.

    Despite all that, LaFleur is optimistic about Musgrave. “You can see the talent,” LaFleur said. “It’s been unfortunate with the injuries but he’s put in the work this offseason. I think it’s going to be a great year for both him and Tuck.”

    If he stays healthy, the combination of his speed and Kraft’s physicality will be nightmares for defensive coordinators.

    Packers’ Tight End Depth Chart

    The Packers have a nice mix of veterans and young talent at tight end:

    • Tucker Kraft (6-5, 259)– The breakout star from last season.
    • Luke Musgrave (6-6, 253)– High upside but injury prone.
    • Ben Sims (6-5, 250)– Reliable third year guy.
    • John FitzPatrick (6-7, 262)– Four year veteran.
    • Messiah Swinson (6-7, 259)– Athletic developmental prospect.
    • Johnny Lumpkin (6-5, 264)– Undrafted rookie.

    This gives LaFleur the ability to use multiple tight end sets which could be a big part of the Packers’ offense.

    NFL Draft Spotlight: Tyler Warren Leads the Pack

    The Packers are set at tight end for now but the 2025 draft has some nice options for teams looking to add depth. Leading the way is Penn State’s Tyler Warren who is considered one of the top players in the class.

    Warren had a monster senior season with 104 catches for 1,233 yards and 8 touchdowns and won the Mackey Award. He’s 6-5, 256 and a plug and play for any NFL offense.

    Other notable names are Michigan’s Colston Loveland, LSU’s Mason Taylor and Miami’s Elijah Arroyo all of whom bring something different to the table.

    Pick to Click: Oronde Gadsen II

    One to watch is Syracuse’s Oronde Gadsen II, son of former Dolphins wide receiver Oronde Gadsen Sr. The younger Gadsen had a big senior season with 73 catches for 934 yards and 7 TDs.

    Growing up in Davie, Florida Gadsen had an unconventional coaching setup: his Pop Warner team was led by Pro Football Hall of Famers Dan Marino and Jason Taylor. That and his own talent could make him a steal late Day 2 or early Day 3.

    “It’s been cool having my dad as a resource,” Gadsen said. “He didn’t get to go through this process himself so helping me navigate it has been special.”

    Historical Context: Packers’ Drafting Habits

    For all the talk about the Packers not drafting wide receivers in the 1st round, they haven’t drafted a tight end in the 1st round since Bubba Franks in 2000. Since then their track record at the position has been spotty at best.

    Recent picks like Jermichael Finley showed promise before injuries derailed his career, while others like Richard Rodgers and Josiah Deguara provided modest contributions. But the selection of Musgrave and Kraft in 2023 shows they are building through the position.

  • Jaire Alexander Trade Buzz: Will the Packers Release Their Star CB?

    Jaire Alexander Trade Buzz: Will the Packers Release Their Star CB?

    More than a month after the Packers said they were going to shop Jaire Alexander, he’s still on the team. Despite his $21 million per year extension, Alexander has not lived up to the hype and it seems the Packers are still willing to move on from him. But finding a trade partner to meet Green Bay’s asking price has been tough.

    Why Teams Are Holding Back?

    According to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel’s Tom Silverstein, teams are interested in Alexander but are waiting for the Packers to make the first move. Brian Gutekunst said earlier this offseason the team wanted a reasonable return on their investment. So far, offers have not met their expectations.

    Alexander won’t restructure his contract which has made things even more complicated. With two years and $32 million left on his deal, suitors may view his cap hit as too high especially with his injury history and inconsistent play the last two seasons. Since 2023 he’s missed 20 regular season games. And his suspension last season for an unusual coin toss incident against the Panthers didn’t help his reputation.

    The Dead Money Dilemma

    If the Packers trade Alexander before June 1, they’d absorb 17 million in dead money—as a significant burden for a team in rebuild mode. Waiting until after June 1 would allow them to spread some of that cap hit into 2026 while creating 17.2 million in savings for 2025.

    For interested teams, Alexander’s 16.15 million base salary in 2025 is another hurdle. Based on his recent attendance record and performance, few teams seem to want to take on that financial commitment without a restructured deal—something Alexander reportedly isn’t willing to do.

    Could the Draft Be the Turning Point?

    Green Bay was close to trading Alexander at the start of free agency but multiple things got in the way. Now all eyes are on the draft where another window opens. All three days of the draft are tradeable and it’s not hard to imagine Alexander getting late round capital if no early suitors emerge.

    A previous report said the Packers wanted this situation resolved by the draft. But waiting until after might work in their favor. By seeing which teams don’t address their cornerback needs during the draft, the Packers can identify more desperate buyers. This could increase their chances of getting better compensation for Alexander.

    Packers’ Cornerback Situation Moving Forward

    Even if Alexander leaves, the Packers still need a cornerback. They didn’t re-sign Eric Stokes, their 2021 first round pick, who went to the Raiders after Nate Hobbs went to Green Bay. Keisean Nixon and Carrington Valentine are under contract but neither offers the stability or star power Alexander once did.

    The Dolphins granting Jalen Ramsey permission to seek a trade adds another layer to the cornerback market. As one of the top cornerbacks available, Ramsey leaving Miami could take the spotlight off Alexander. But the Packers want to remake their secondary so Alexander’s situation will still be front and center in the coming weeks.

  • NFL Thinks the Packers Paid Nate Hobbs to Play Slot Corner

    NFL Thinks the Packers Paid Nate Hobbs to Play Slot Corner

    When the Green Bay Packers signed Nate Hobbs to a 4 year, $48 million deal this offseason, it didn’t take long for the ripple effects to be felt across the NFL. Just weeks later, two teams—the Houston Texans and Chicago Bears—signed their own slot defenders to big extensions that seemed to be directly referencing Hobbs’ deal.

    Jalen Pitre of the Texans signed a 3 year, $39 million extension ($13 million per year), while Kyler Gordon of the Bears signed a 3 year, $40 million deal ($13.33 million per year). These numbers are a big jump from Jourdan Lewis’ previous record setting $10 million per year deal with the Jacksonville Jaguars.

    But here’s the question: was this sudden surge in slot cornerback salaries justified by market trends, or did teams just use Hobbs’ deal as the new benchmark?

    The Quarterback Comparison: A 30% Spike Overnight?

    For perspective, imagine if the quarterback market saw a similar spike. Dak Prescott is currently the highest paid quarterback at 60 million per year. If other QBs suddenly started signing deals at 78 million annually—a 30% increase—it would be crazy. That’s what happened in the slot cornerback market after Hobbs’ signing.

    Some will say that players like Pitre and Gordon are worth the extra money, but it’s hard to ignore the timing. Teams have apparently decided that Hobbs’ $12 million-per-year deal is the new standard for elite slot defenders. That means the Packers’ signing wasn’t just about getting a slot corner—it may have reset the entire market.

    What Does This Mean for the Packers?

    The Packers are in an interesting spot. Hobbs was signed as a slot cornerback, but recent reports say he can also play outside cornerback if needed. With Keisean Nixon, a disgruntled Jaire Alexander and Carrington Valentine as the current options, Hobbs is a “break-in-case-of-emergency” option at the boundary corners.

    But we know teams’ intentions don’t always align with reality. Last offseason, the Packers planned to give first-round pick Jordan Morgan a legit shot at left tackle before moving him to right guard full-time. Could that happen with Hobbs?

    Impact on Young Players Like Javon Bullard

    If Hobbs ends up playing mostly in the slot, that could hurt younger players like Javon Bullard. Bullard—the 2024 second-round pick out of Georgia—already lost the starting safety job to Evan Williams, a fourth-round pick from the same draft class.

    If Bullard isn’t given a chance to play nickel or contribute elsewhere, he risks being relegated to backup duties in his second year. That’s a problem for a team trying to build depth and develop young talent.

    The Bigger Picture: A Shift in Defensive Priorities

    That shift in priorities highlights just how important slot cornerbacks are in today’s NFL. As offenses use more three-wide receiver sets, having a reliable defender in the slot has become a must-have. Teams are willing to pay top dollar for players who can thrive there—even if that means stretching their budgets thin elsewhere.

    That versatility Hobbs brings to the table gives Green Bay flexibility—but also raises questions about where they really want to use him. If Alexander leaves via trade or free agency, will they lean on Hobbs as an outside cornerback? Or will they prioritize keeping him in the slot, where he did so well under Rich Bisaccia with the Raiders?

  • Green Bay Hosts the NFL Draft 2025, 17 Players You Need to Watch

    Green Bay Hosts the NFL Draft 2025, 17 Players You Need to Watch

    The NFL has announced that 17 top prospects will be in Green Bay, Wisconsin for the 2025 NFL Draft. This year’s draft is going to be big, with some of the biggest names in college football walking across the stage at Lambeau Field. One of those is Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter, listed as a dual-threat defensive back/wide receiver (DB/WR).

    But here’s the twist: despite Colorado coach Deion Sanders announcing a public draft-day celebration for both Hunter and his son Shedeur Sanders, Shedeur won’t be in attendance. He’ll wait for his selection elsewhere.

    Quarterbacks Headlining the Event

    Three quarterbacks will be in attendance and all eyes will be on them as they could be the future of their respective teams. Leading the way is Cam Ward from the University of Miami who is expected to be the #1 overall pick by the Tennessee Titans. Joining him are Jaxson Dart from Ole Miss and Jalen Milroe from Alabama who hope to make an impact on Day 1 or 2 of the draft.

    Alabama and Georgia Lead the Pack

    Alabama and Georgia lead the way with three players each. Alabama has three: Abdul Carter (DE), Jalen Milroe (QB), and Jihaad Campbell (LB). Georgia has two: Malaki Starks (DB) and Mykel Williams (DE). Michigan also has two: Mason Graham (DT) and Will Johnson (DB) attending.

    Full List of Players Attending the 2025 NFL Draft

    Here’s the complete list of prospects confirmed to attend the draft:

    1. Tyler Booker – G, Alabama
    2. Jihaad Campbell – LB, Alabama
    3. Will Campbell – T, LSU
    4. Abdul Carter – DE, Penn State
    5. Jaxson Dart – QB, Mississippi
    6. Matthew Golden – WR, Texas
    7. Mason Graham – DT, Michigan
    8. Travis Hunter – DB/WR, Colorado
    9. Ashton Jeanty – RB, Boise State
    10. Will Johnson – DB, Michigan
    11. Tetairoa McMillan – WR, Arizona
    12. Jalen Milroe – QB, Alabama
    13. Josh Simmons – T, Ohio State
    14. Malaki Starks – DB, Georgia
    15. Shemar Stewart – DE, Texas A&M
    16. Cameron Ward – QB, Miami (Fla.)
    17. Mykel Williams – DE, Georgia

    Key Storylines to Watch

    Travis Hunter’s Versatility

    Travis Hunter is on the list and I’m so hyped. Listed as a defensive back and wide receiver, he’s one of the most interesting prospects in a long time. His dad, Deion Sanders, was going to have a separate party but Travis decided to attend the draft so he could be part of the moment on the biggest stage in football.

    Shedeur Sanders’ Absence

    Shedeur Sanders, another highly touted prospect, won’t be at the draft. His absence raises questions about his draft stock and how teams view him compared to other QBs like Cam Ward and Jaxson Dart.

    Edge Rushers and Defensive Talent

    Defenders like Abdul Carter (Penn State), Shemar Stewart (Texas A&M) and Mykel Williams (Georgia) will get a lot of attention. With pass rushers in high demand these guys could get picked in the first round.

    Draft Schedule and What to Expect

    The 2025 NFL Draft starts Thursday, April 24 with Round 1. Rounds 2 and 3 are Friday, April 25 and Rounds 4-7 are Saturday, April 26. There will be surprises, trades and tears as these 17 prospects (and many others) live their NFL dreams.

  • Wisconsin Airports Prepare for Chaos as 2025 NFL Draft Heads to Green Bay

    Wisconsin Airports Prepare for Chaos as 2025 NFL Draft Heads to Green Bay

    The countdown is on to the 2025 NFL Draft in Green Bay, and Wisconsin airports are preparing for a record number of travelers. 250,000 football fans will descend upon Titletown in April, making it one of the biggest events in recent history for Northeast Wisconsin.

    For Austin Straubel International Airport, the closest hub to Lambeau Field, this means a passenger surge like nothing seen in decades. The airport typically sees around 20,000 passengers a week. During draft week April 20-26 they expect to double that to 40,000.

    “This is our Super Bowl,” said Marty Piette, Director of Austin Straubel International Airport. “We’re expecting this to be the busiest week we’ve seen in 20 years. Every airline has added additional flights.”

    New Flights Bring Fans from Coast to Coast

    To handle the huge crowds, airlines are adding new nonstop routes and more frequencies into Green Bay. Football fans can now fly direct from major cities like Chicago, New York, Los Angeles, Orlando, Atlanta, Minneapolis, Salt Lake City and Detroit – all to witness history at Lambeau Field.

    Carriers aren’t done yet. Travelers heading south to Appleton International Airport will see a big increase in flight activity too. According to Abe Weber, Director of Appleton International Airport, “We’re expecting 15-20% more flights and seats during draft week.”

    More flights to Denver, Houston, Phoenix, Dallas and Charlotte mean even more options for out-of-state visitors to join the party.

    Milwaukee Stays Steady Amidst the Chaos

    While Green Bay and Appleton are preparing for record crowds, Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE) is business as usual. Despite being Wisconsin’s largest airport, MKE officials say they have no plans to add extra flights for the draft.

    “It should be a normal day here,” said Harold Mester, Director of Public Affairs and Marketing at MKE. “The airlines feel they can absorb the extra traffic within their existing schedules.”

    But that doesn’t mean Milwaukee won’t feel the impact. VISIT Milwaukee reports a huge surge in hotel bookings for the draft weekend, up from 10% occupancy in January to over 60% and climbing. Many visitors booking Milwaukee hotels will be driving the two hours north to Green Bay.

    Hotels Filling Up Across the State

    As Green Bay hotels sell out fast, nearby cities like Milwaukee are stepping in. Josh Albrecht, Chief Marketing Officer of VISIT Milwaukee, says proximity is key for attendees.

    “What we’ve learned from talking to cities like Detroit and Kansas City is that the draft is a driving market,” Albrecht said. “Most fans come from within a six-hour radius, which benefits both Green Bay and Milwaukee since many surrounding areas have NFL teams.”

    Whether driving or booking rooms farther south, fans are finding ways to get in on the action.

    Escape Plan: Special Flights for Locals

    For locals looking to get out of the chaos, Austin Straubel International Airport is offering an escape. A special flight to Orlando will depart the day before the draft starts and return the day after the draft ends— a perfect option for those who prefer sunshine over stadium lights.

  • Packers Eye Bold Move as QB Market Shifts

    Packers Eye Bold Move as QB Market Shifts

    The NFL is a league where one team’s misfortune is another’s opportunity. With Derek Carr potentially out for all of 2025 with a shoulder injury, the New Orleans Saints are scrambling to find a quarterback. For the Green Bay Packers, this could be a domino effect that helps them in the long run, especially when it comes to Malik Willis.

    Derek Carr’s Injury Creates Chaos in New Orleans

    If Carr can’t play the Saints will almost certainly draft a quarterback in two weeks. But it’s not that simple. Shedeur Sanders might not fall to the 9th pick and drafting other quarterbacks early would feel like a reach. Even, if they go Day 2 they should give a rookie time to develop behind a veteran starter.

    But here’s the thing: New Orleans isn’t exactly in a position to invest in an aging veteran with their current cap situation. Last year, Spencer Rattler and Jake Haener got chances under center and both were a mess. That’s where Malik Willis comes in.

    Why Malik Willis Could Be the Perfect Fit for the Saints?

    Willis is only 25 so he has upside as a long term solution. He hasn’t lived up to his 2nd round pick yet but his recent play with the Packers has gotten some of his value back. A trade for him wouldn’t require a huge investment—a 3rd round pick could do it. Coincidentally, the Saints have 2 3rds and the 93rd overall pick is a reasonable enough to get Green Bay to move him.

    Plus, he’s on his rookie contract so he’s an affordable option for a cash strapped team like the Saints. This gives them flexibility and allows them to develop Willis into their QB of the future without breaking the bank.

    Malik Willis’ Resurgence in Green Bay

    When the Packers traded for Malik Willis last year for a 7th round pick nobody thought he’d be this big of a deal. But over 4 games including starts against the Colts and Titans he showed flashes.

    In Week 2 against Indy Matt LaFleur rode the run hard but when called upon Willis was nearly perfect through the air. Against Tennessee he shined brightest, 13 of 19 for 202 yards and a TD and 73 rushing yards and another TD on 6 carries. His ability to create outside structure gives him value even if he’s never going to be a high volume passer.

    Willis got a scaled back playbook to protect him, but he showed us, he’s more than capable of stepping in when needed. He’s become an asset and now the Packers may trade him for the right price.

    What Makes a Trade Work for the Packers?

    If the Packers move Willis, it has to cost them. He’s in the final year of his rookie deal and has a $1.4 million cap hit in 2025. If he’s traded, all the salary is assumed by the acquiring team, and there’s no dead money for the Packers.

    But moving Willis creates a hole at backup quarterback. Free agent options like Carson Wentz or Desmond Ridder aren’t exactly inspiring as a replacement. To take that risk, the compensation has to be big.

    The Packers have financial constraints heading into 2026. If Willis walks into free agency next offseason, the Packers get a compensatory pick in 2027. Any trade this year has to be better than that. A 5th rounder won’t cut it; even a 4th might not be enough. But a Day 2 pick? Now we’re talking.

    Brian Gutekunst has always prioritized top 100 picks. Remember the Rasul Douglas trade? Or the Aaron Rodgers and Davante Adams blockbuster deals? The Packers love accumulating picks, and a Willis trade could give them exactly that.

    Why This Move Benefits Both Teams?

    For the Saints, it brings stability and a bridge to their rookie draft pick and doesn’t commit too many resources to a stopgap veteran. For the Packers, it brings back valuable draft capital and allows them to address other needs.

    Losing Willis means taking a step back at QB2, but the front office has shown they can find ways to adapt. Whether it’s a developmental prospect or a low cost veteran, they’ll figure it out. And with Jordan Love locked in as the starter, the immediate impact would be