Packers mock draft: Could Green Bay go running back in first round?

Sometimes, those that regularly produce mock drafts make key changes in their early selections in order to see how the rest of the selections might play out. While that can lead to some odd choices, it can also prepare those involved for what a surprise selection might look like come the actual draft.

This week, SB Nation's draft guru Dan Kadar decided to take such an approach in his latest mock, selecting defensive players for each of the top five picks. That affected the Green Bay Packers all the way down at 29th overall, who ended up with Stanford running back Christian McCaffrey.

29. Green Bay Packers: Christian McCaffrey, RB, Stanford

McCaffrey might not be viewed as a direct replacement for Eddie Lacy, but he would add an incredible dimension to Green Bay’s offense.

In past mocks, Kadar and others have projected pass-rushers and other defensive prospects for Green Bay. However, many of those options came off the board before the Packers could pick. Conversely, one of the draft's most highly touted tailbacks lasted longer than usual, giving the team a chance to significantly upgrade its backfield.

Would the Packers ultimately take a running back so early in the draft? Their track record under general manager Ted Thompson suggests not, but unusual circumstances could produce an unusual result. The team certainly has room in its backfield with Eddie Lacy's departure and the release of long-time reserve James Starks. McCaffrey, along with the recent additions Martellus Bennett and Lance Kendricks, could allow the Packers to try out a more exotic approach come the regular season.