Green Bay Packers Eye Small-School Standout Michael Heldman in Pre-Draft Visit

The Packers' strategy of unearthing hidden gems from lesser-known programs could make Central Michigan's Michael Heldman their next late-round find.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 9:12pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a football player's pass rush move, with sharp, overlapping planes in shades of green, gold, and navy, conveying the raw athleticism and potential of an overlooked prospect.The Packers' pre-draft interest in Central Michigan's Michael Heldman reflects their knack for identifying small-school talent with the potential to thrive in the NFL.Green Bay Today

The Green Bay Packers have invited Central Michigan defensive end Michael Heldman for a pre-draft visit, continuing their trend of scouting small-school prospects with intriguing physical tools and potential. Heldman, who had a breakout senior season with 10.5 sacks and 16.5 tackles for loss, impressed at his Pro Day with elite athleticism that aligns with the Packers' drafting philosophy of targeting raw talent they can develop.

Why it matters

The Packers have a history of finding diamonds in the rough, particularly from smaller college programs, and Heldman fits that mold. While his production came against lesser competition in the MAC, the Packers are focused on Heldman's physical traits and believe they can mold him into an impactful edge rusher, addressing a key need on their roster.

The details

Heldman, a 6'4", 270-pound defensive end, was not invited to the NFL Combine but turned heads at his Central Michigan Pro Day with an impressive athletic testing performance. His ability to potentially transition to outside linebacker in the Packers' 3-4 scheme is intriguing, as Green Bay has shown a willingness to develop players with that kind of versatility.

  • Heldman had a breakout senior season at Central Michigan in 2025, earning First-Team All-MAC honors.
  • Heldman recently participated in his Central Michigan Pro Day, showcasing his elite athleticism.

The players

Michael Heldman

A defensive end from Central Michigan who is drawing pre-draft interest from the Green Bay Packers due to his impressive physical tools and potential to develop into an impactful edge rusher.

Khalil Mack

An NFL star edge rusher who also played at a smaller college program, the University of Buffalo, before becoming a dominant force in the league.

T.J. Watt

Another NFL edge rusher who came from a smaller college program, the University of Wisconsin, and has become one of the league's premier defensive players.

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What’s next

The Packers will continue to evaluate Heldman and other edge rushers as they finalize their 2026 NFL Draft plans. Heldman's performance during his pre-draft visit will be closely watched, as the Packers determine if he is a player they want to target in the later rounds.

The takeaway

The Packers' interest in Michael Heldman exemplifies their successful strategy of identifying and developing overlooked talent, particularly from smaller college programs. Heldman's elite athleticism and potential versatility make him an intriguing late-round target who could become the Packers' next hidden gem.