In a wild first round of the NFL Draft in Las Vegas last night, Brian Gutekunst stayed pat at the #22 and #28 spots and went with solid bets in two stalwarts of the national champion Georgia Bulldogs’ defense.

Defensive coordinator Joe Barry’s unit received an infusion of potential impact defenders with linebacker Quay Walker and defensive tackle Devonte Wyatt—the fourth time in five years the Packers general manager has selected a defensive player in the first round.

Gutekunst said the Georgia duo are explosive players that give defensive coordinator Joe Barry’s unit flexibility and depth to wreak havoc on opposing offenses.

Packer Nation awaits an addition to the Green Bay offense, specifically at receiver with the gaping void left by the departures of Davante Adams and Marquez Valdes-Scantling.

Quarterback Aaron Rodgers commented on the Pat MacAfee Show that once the top six receivers were taken in the first 18 picks, he knew the Packers would concentrate on defense.

With the deep receiver class this year, Gutekunst still has options to add weapons for Rodgers in rounds 2-3 this evening—though he may have to move up to do it.  Could it be a third straight Georgia Bulldog in receiver George Pickens?  Or Christian Watson, Skyy More, or Jalen Tolbert?

Stay tuned for more trades and surprises tonight.

Packers 2022 Draft

Round 1 • Pick 22 (22) • LB Quay Walker, Georgia

Round 1 • Pick 28 (28) • DT Devonte Wyatt, Georgia

Round 2 • Pick 21 (53) • From Raiders

Round 2 • Pick 27 (59)

Round 3 • Pick 28 (92)

Round 4 • Pick 27 (132)

Round 4 • Pick 35 (140) • Compensatory Selection

Round 5 • Pick 28 (171)

Round 7 • Pick 7 (228) • From Bears through Texans

Round 7 • Pick 28 (249)

Round 7 • Pick 37 (258) • Compensatory Selection