BBV Community Mock Draft 2011: With The 32nd Pick, The Packers Select ...

Danny Watkins, OG, Baylor.

Playing the role of Green Bay Packers general manager is 'NYG28.' Here is his rationale for the final selection of our first round:

This pick began with a simple "process of elimination" strategy. Green Bay obviously doesn't need a quarterback, tight end, or nose tackle. Now examining the team's needs with the highest rated prospects available I have come up with a few players who should be examined: Cameron Heyward (DE), Brandon Harris (CB), Mikel Leshoure (RB), and Danny Watkins (G). These players should have an immediate impact for Green Bay and fill (potential) holes on the team.

Now it's impossible to know if the Packers are going to bring back Ryan Grant, Daryn Colledge, or Nick Barnett (as well as various other players), but for now lets assume they plan on keeping all three. Ted Thompson will pick the best player available at 32 who will have the opportunity to make plays for his team, who in my eyes is...

Danny Watkins.

No doubt about it. Green Bay has plenty of denfensive backs, if Ryan Grant stays they have an incredible one-two punch with Grant and James Starks (add in Brandon Jackson and John Kuhn and there are more than plenty to run the ball), and they have rotational guys for their defensive ends. Sure DE could be a huge problem- because of Jolly and Cullen Jenkins possibly not being kept- but there are no high caliber 3-4 defensive ends (I'm not in love with Heyward). I would have gone Muhammad Wilkerson if he was available, but he wasn't.

Watkins has experience, he can take over for Colledge sometime this year, and his age actually helps him here with the lockout. He is mature, smart, can learn schemes, and prepare himself more than most other rookies can. His presence in the line will help protect one of the best quarterbacks in the league, and will set the tone for a great running game.

My take: Good player. Best value on the board? Not sure about that. I do think Watkins, though he is a little older than normal draft prospects, should be a good player. Also, no doubt the Packers can benefit from building a stronger offensive line.

-- Full Danny Watkins profile

Round 1

Round 2