Packers to Host Central Michigan Edge Rusher on Pre-Draft Visit

Michael Heldman, a standout pass rusher, will meet with the Green Bay Packers ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 8:35pm

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A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting a football player in the midst of a pass rush, their body broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in shades of green, gold, and navy blue.The Packers' search for new edge rushers leads them to evaluate Central Michigan's Michael Heldman, whose athletic traits and production could make him a late-round steal.Green Bay Today

The Green Bay Packers will host Central Michigan edge rusher Michael Heldman on a pre-draft visit, according to reports. Heldman, who produced 34.5 tackles for loss over his college career, is currently ranked as the No. 270 overall player on the consensus big board and could be an intriguing late-round option for the Packers as they look to rebuild depth at the edge rusher position.

Why it matters

The Packers are in need of reinforcing their edge rush after losing key players like Rashan Gary and Kingsley Enagbare in the offseason. Heldman's impressive athletic traits and productive senior season make him an interesting prospect who could provide valuable depth and potential upside for the Packers' defense.

The details

Heldman played 53 games over four seasons at Central Michigan, producing 19.5 sacks and four forced fumbles. He had his best season in 2025, creating 16.5 tackles for loss and 10.5 sacks en route to a first-team All-MAC selection. Heldman also tested well at the NFL Combine, posting a 9.90 Relative Athletic Score with a 40-inch vertical leap, 10-3 broad jump, 4.70-second 40-yard dash, and 29 reps on the bench press.

  • Heldman will visit the Packers ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft.

The players

Michael Heldman

A standout edge rusher from Central Michigan University who is projected to be a late-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Green Bay Packers

The NFL team that will host Heldman on a pre-draft visit as they look to rebuild depth at the edge rusher position.

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What they’re saying

“The Green Bay Packers will host Central Michigan edge rusher Michael Heldman on a pre-draft visit, according to Tom Pelissero of NFL Network.”

— Tom Pelissero, NFL Network Reporter

The takeaway

The Packers' decision to host Heldman on a pre-draft visit suggests they see potential in the Central Michigan pass rusher and could be considering him as a late-round option to help bolster their edge rush depth ahead of the 2026 season.