3 Players the Packers Need to Avoid With Their First-Round Pick

The Green Bay Packers finished last season with a 13-3 record and one win shy of a Super Bowl berth. While it was a successful season on all accounts, many feel the Packers overachieved, and this is mostly due to the amount of needs this team has.

The Packers featured arguably the worst receiving corps in the NFL last season, which is why many experts are predicting Green Bay to address the position right away in the NFL Draft. However, it's more complicated than simply choosing any receiver.

These are three players the Packers need to avoid with their first-round pick.

3. Michael Pittman Jr., WR, USC

Michael Pittman Jr. is another big wide receiver, which is what Matt LaFleur loves. He is strong, athletic and can due damage as a blocker in the running game. However, he doesn't have a great burst, he lacks open-field speed and elusiveness, and he struggles to create separation both at the line of scrimmage and at the top of his routes.

2. Laviska Shenault Jr., WR, Colorado

Laviska Shenault Jr. is a well-built, strong wide receiver. He is also incredibly versatile, playing split out, in the slot, in tight, as a running back and even as Colorado's wildcat quarterback in college. However, his route running isn't great, he has shown less willingness to be an effective blocker, despite his size. He can also have effort issues, which is the fastest way for Aaron Rodgers to keep you off the field.

1. Chase Claypool, WR, Notre Dame

Some draft analysts, including ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr., are predicting the Packers to select Chase Claypool with the No. 30 overall pick. However, this would move could really be a reach at that point in the first round. Claypool is a big, speedy receiver that lacks the ability to separate. In other words, this could be like spending a first-round pick on a more talented Marquez Valdes-Scantling 2.0.

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