2017 NFL Mock Draft: Final Predictions For First Round

29. Green Bay Packers: Wisconsin LB T.J. Watt

Before anyone freaks out about the Green Bay Packers not selecting a running back with this pick since there is clearly a need, keep in mind that can always come in the later round if there isn’t a worthy pick available at No. 29. Even if Aaron Rodgers found all sorts of ways to be successful in the second half of last year along with the playoffs despite not having the proper help in the ground game, the Packers simply can’t afford to put their quarterback in that position again in 2017.

Obviously, if a running back like Dalvin Cook manages to slip this late in the first round, it would be tough not for Green Bay to at least consider the possibility, but drafting a proven linebacker like T.J. Watt seems like the safest bet for the defense. Everybody already knows what Watt’s brother has accomplished as one of the best defenders in the NFL over the years, and the Packers would love nothing more than to see the former Wisconsin standout be just as successful, if not more.

Assuming all goes well over the next few months with no major setbacks, Green Bay will be considered one of the top teams to beat in the NFC once again after falling just shy of reaching the Super Bowl last year. And with the addition of someone like Watt, it only makes the Packers even more dangerous to deal with.