In a newly released seven-round NFL mock draft, the Green Bay Packers are projected to select an elusive wide receiver to bolster their offensive attack. The team has prioritized adding weapons for quarterback Jordan Love as they continue to build around their young signal-caller. Wide receiver remains an area of need despite the emergence of young playmakers like Jayden Reed and Dontayvion Wicks in 2024.
Packers Target Explosive Receiver in Latest Mock Draft
The mock draft has the Packers selecting Utah State wide receiver Jalen Royals with the 55th overall pick in the second round. Royals has been one of the most dynamic receivers in college football, showcasing elite separation skills, strong hands, and a knack for making defenders miss after the catch. Standing at 6 feet tall and weighing 190 pounds, he has the frame to succeed at the next level while maintaining the quickness needed to be an elite route-runner.
Before a foot injury ended his 2024 season in Week 8, Royals was among the most productive receivers in the country. His ability to stretch the field vertically while also excelling in short-yardage situations makes him a perfect fit for Green Bay’s evolving offense. With Love showing significant improvement in his first full season as a starter, adding another weapon like Royals would help take the Packers’ passing attack to another level.
How Royals Fits in Green Bay’s Offense
The Packers have one of the youngest receiving corps in the NFL, but their group remains somewhat unproven outside of Reed and Christian Watson. Watson has struggled with injuries, and while Wicks has flashed potential, the team still lacks a true go-to target who can dominate in all areas of the field. Royals brings a combination of elite route-running, speed, and versatility that would allow him to play both in the slot and on the outside.
Offensive coordinator Adam Stenavich has emphasized getting the ball into the hands of playmakers quickly, and Royals fits that mold perfectly. His ability to create separation on short and intermediate routes would allow Love to develop more consistent rhythm-based passing plays. Additionally, Royals’ yards-after-catch ability makes him a dangerous threat on quick screens, slants, and crossing routes.
Why the Packers Need More Receiving Depth
Green Bay’s offense took major strides in 2024 as Love proved he could lead the team following Aaron Rodgers’ departure. However, inconsistency at receiver was still a problem. Watson’s injury history has been a concern, and while Reed was fantastic in his rookie year, he is best utilized as a dynamic No. 2 option rather than a primary target.
Adding a player like Royals gives the Packers more flexibility and insurance at the position. His skill set allows him to immediately contribute in different roles, whether it be as a slot receiver, deep threat, or gadget player in certain formations. The Packers’ front office has historically favored drafting and developing young receivers, and Royals fits the profile of a playmaker who can grow into a star.
The Packers’ Overall Draft Strategy
Aside from wide receiver, the Packers are also expected to address other key needs in the draft. Defensive back, offensive line, and pass rusher are all areas that could use additional depth. However, ensuring that Love has enough weapons remains a top priority.
With the 55th overall pick, Green Bay would be getting incredible value in Royals, who has been projected by some analysts as a potential late first-round talent. If he’s available in the second round, it would be hard for the Packers to pass up the opportunity to add a dynamic playmaker to their offense.
Conclusion
The selection of Jalen Royals in this seven-round mock draft reflects Green Bay’s commitment to building around Jordan Love. Royals’ speed, route-running, and versatility make him an ideal fit for the Packers’ offense, addressing a key need while giving Love another dynamic target.
As the draft approaches, Green Bay’s front office will have tough decisions to make regarding their draft strategy, but if Royals is available when they’re on the clock in the second round, he could be the perfect addition to help take their offense to the next level in 2025 and beyond.
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