Chilling message to Rams fans via Packers’ Dairyland Express Paul Bretl

Who are some standouts on the Packers roster to be wary of?

Ramblin’ Fan: The Rams had fallen to 3-9 before a miraculous performance by QB Baker Mayfield, just awarded off waivers hours earlier, led the team to two fourth-quarter touchdowns. Are there any newly acquire players or rookies who have or could make such an impact on the Packers team? If so, who?

Dairyland Express Paul Bretl: The early returns from the Packers 2022 rookie class have been exciting. While LB Quay Walker has gone through some growing pains, the upside and potential are clear as day. WR Christian Watson has been a game-changer for the passing game, with eight touchdowns in the last four games. OL Zach Tom can play multiple positions along the offensive line and looks like a 10-year starter, along with WR Romeo Doubs having some big moments of his own as a pass catcher. Fifth-round pick OLB Kingsley Enagbare’s production over the last month has been on par with some of the NFL’s top prospects at edge rushers from this 2022 draft class. Lastly, while not used often, seventh-round wide receiver Samori Toure has had some flashes as well.

Ramblin’ Fan: The winner of this game may emerge as the victor but will lose valuable draft position as unsuccessful teams are now drawing up their Big Board. What is your take on the Packers’ draft strategy and key positional needs? 

Dairyland Express Paul Bretl: If there is one thing that we have learned during Brian Gutekunst’s time as GM is that we should expect the unexpected. There are several examples over the last five drafts where he takes a position group or a player that was completely unexpected. With that said, what we do know is that he loves top athletes, with the majority of his draft picks scoring in the “elite” category on the RAS scale. He is also very willing to make trades and has no problem selecting a position in the early rounds where there is already an established veteran. Of course, quarterback comes to mind, but he’s also done this for the edge rusher, linebacker, and running back, to name a few other positions.

Looking ahead to next season, I imagine receiver will again be on their radar, but other positions of need will include edge rusher, interior defensive lineman, safety, and tight end. Gutekunst (a.k.a. Gutey) has also been very willing to draft offensive linemen as well.