Packers Reinforce Defense After Free Agency Losses in 2026 NFL Mock Draft

Green Bay looks to bounce back from late-season collapse with key draft picks.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 12:38pm

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The Green Bay Packers are coming off a disappointing 9-7-1 season that saw them lose five straight games to end the year, including a heartbreaking 31-27 wild-card playoff loss to the Chicago Bears after blowing a 21-3 lead. With the team in win-now mode, this year's draft will be crucial for the Packers as they look to get over the hump and return to the Super Bowl for the first time since 2010.

Why it matters

The Packers have been one of the NFL's most consistent playoff teams over the past 15 seasons, making the postseason 12 times. However, they've been unable to reach the Super Bowl during that span, the longest such drought in franchise history. This draft will be pivotal in determining whether Green Bay can finally break through and make a deep playoff run.

The details

Without a first-round pick, the Packers will need to make the most of their selections starting in the second round. Key areas of need include the defensive line after losing several players in free agency, as well as the offensive line following the injuries to Micah Parsons and Zach Tom at the end of last season.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft will take place April 23-25 in Pittsburgh.
  • In Week 15 of the 2025 season, Packers edge rusher Micah Parsons tore his ACL and right tackle Zach Tom partially tore his patellar tendon, ending their seasons.
  • The Packers lost five straight games to end the 2025 season, including a 31-27 wild-card playoff defeat to the Chicago Bears after blowing a 21-3 lead, the largest blown lead in franchise history.

The players

Jordan Love

The Packers' starting quarterback, who had an efficient season in 2025 before the team's late-season collapse.

Micah Parsons

The All-Pro edge rusher acquired by the Packers, who suffered a season-ending ACL tear in Week 15 of the 2025 season.

Zach Tom

The Packers' best offensive lineman, who partially tore his patellar tendon in Week 15 of the 2025 season, ending his year.

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What they’re saying

“The 2026 NFL Draft is crucial, even without possession of a first-round pick. The right draft choice in a couple of different spots could help get Green Bay over the hump.”

— Garrett Podell, Author

What’s next

The Packers will look to address their defensive line and offensive line needs in the 2026 NFL Draft, with their first pick coming in the second round at pick 52.

The takeaway

The Packers' inability to reach the Super Bowl despite 12 playoff appearances in the last 15 seasons has been a source of frustration for the franchise and its fans. This year's draft will be crucial in determining whether Green Bay can finally break through and make a deep postseason run.