Packers Draft Day 2 Preview: Pass rush, wideout, O-line top remaining needs

With the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft in the books, every team will take the night to evaluate their decisions thus far and figure out how to optimize the next two days. For the Green Bay Packers, that means deciding how to tackle their remaining needs after boosting the secondary with their top pick.

Louisville cornerback Jaire Alexander addressed the Packers’ biggest need, but the trade to move up from No. 27 cost them one of their Day 2 selections. The extra first-rounder the team received from their earlier deal with the New Orleans Saints more than offsets that loss, but it leaves Green Bay with only one current selection over the next 64 selections. General manager Brian Gutekunst could acquire a second- or third-round pick via trade, but whether he wants to do another deal remains to be seen.

Meanwhile, the Packers still have a huge gap on the right side of their offensive line. Jahri Evans, the starting right guard in 2017, remains unsigned and could still opt for retirement. Behind him, only Justin McCray gained offers much experience and, despite his versatility, seems a stretch to start for a top-tier offense. Meanwhile, right tackle remains a concern with Bryan Bulaga recovering from an ACL tear and Jason Spriggs unable to improve or stay on the field during his second year in the league.

Perhaps the Packers will have a chance to take an O-lineman such as UTEP’s Will Hernandez or Texas’ Connor Williams, either one addressing a short- and long-term need in the trenches.

While not as glaring a weakness as the secondary and pass rush, receiver could use a boost with a Day 2 pick. Davante Adams and the newly signed Jimmy Graham headline a group with little depth, and only two wideouts (D.J. Moore and Calvin Ridley) came off the board during the first round. If a run on pass catchers doesn’t begin before the No. 45 selection, Green Bay will have plenty of options.