Packers Aim for Edge Rusher, Receiver in 2026 NFL Draft

Green Bay's bold predictions include trading up for a top pass rusher and adding receiving depth in the middle rounds.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 8:11pm

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A fractured, multi-perspective painting depicting a football game or NFL draft scene, with sharp, overlapping geometric planes in the Packers' official colors of green and gold, capturing the team's strategic approach to the upcoming draft.The Packers' strategic approach to the 2026 NFL Draft aims to bolster their pass rush and receiving corps, breaking down the team's needs into a cubist, geometric composition.Green Bay Today

The Green Bay Packers don't have a first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, but they have several bold predictions for how they'll address their top needs at edge rusher and wide receiver. The team is expected to aggressively pursue a top pass rushing prospect in the second round, even if it means trading up, with players like Zion Young, Malachi Lawrence, and R Mason Thomas on their radar. In the third round, the Packers may look to add receiving depth, with Indiana's Elijah Sarratt and Georgia's Zachariah Branch as potential targets.

Why it matters

The Packers view themselves as a Super Bowl contender, so they'll need to make the most of their limited draft capital to fill key holes on the roster. Upgrading the pass rush and adding more receiving weapons for quarterback Jordan Love are critical priorities as the team aims to compete for a championship.

The details

Despite not having a first-round pick, the Packers have seven selections in the 2026 NFL Draft. Their top needs are edge rusher, cornerback, and offensive line. In the second round, the team is expected to aggressively pursue an edge rusher, with players like Zion Young, Malachi Lawrence, R Mason Thomas, and Gabe Jacas potentially in the mix. The Packers may need to trade up to secure their preferred pass rushing prospect, as the second round is projected to have good depth at the position. In the third round, the Packers could look to add receiving depth, with Indiana's Elijah Sarratt and Georgia's Zachariah Branch as potential targets to complement the team's current receiving corps.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft will take place from April 24-26, 2026.

The players

Zion Young

A long, well-built edge rusher from Missouri with the size, strength, and aggression to excel at the NFL level. Young is known for his ability to disrupt blocks and make plays against the run.

Malachi Lawrence

A pass rushing prospect from UCF with a blend of first-step explosion, the ability to bend the edge, and a violent speed-to-power conversion that could make him an early second-round target for the Packers.

R Mason Thomas

An edge rusher from Oklahoma who is considered a potential early second-round pick due to his elite pass rushing skills, though his smaller frame and injury history raise some concerns about his ability to hold up against the run in a traditional four-down front.

Elijah Sarratt

A big, physical wide receiver from Indiana who excels at making contested catches despite his athletic limitations, making him an intriguing option for the Packers' receiving corps in the third round.

Zachariah Branch

A wide receiver prospect from Georgia who could also be on the Packers' radar in the third round, as the team looks to add depth and complement their current receiving group.

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What they’re saying

“'Thomas is a pass rush weapon, full stop. That first-step explosion, the ability to bend the corner at absurd angles, and the violent speed-to-power conversion are traits that translate directly to Sundays.'”

— NFL Draft Buzz

“'Long, well-built edge rusher with the size, strength, and temperament engineered for trench battles at the next level. Young is a fiery alpha who brings immense energy to the field and locker room. He majors in block destruction using base power and aggression to play through opponents.'”

— Lance Zierlein

“'Big receiver whose competitiveness and elite catch-phase execution allow him to overcome his athletic limitations. While he's nicknamed 'Waffle House' because he's said to be 'always open,' Sarratt sees a high number of contested targets versus man coverage.'”

— Lance Zierlein

What’s next

The Packers will look to address their needs at edge rusher and wide receiver in the 2026 NFL Draft, with the team expected to be active in the second and third rounds to find impact players who can help them compete for a Super Bowl.

The takeaway

The Packers' bold predictions for the 2026 NFL Draft showcase their commitment to building a well-rounded roster capable of contending for a championship, even without a first-round pick. Their aggressive approach to finding a top pass rusher and adding receiving depth could pay dividends as they look to take the next step and return to the Super Bowl.