GREEN BAY, Wis. — The Green Bay Packers zeroed in on bolstering their defense during the final rounds of the NFL draft, having already spent the first three selections on offensive players. This year marks a significant milestone for the franchise as it is their inaugural experience hosting the draft.
In their quest to fortify an already solid defense, the Packers prioritized defensive selections on the draft’s third day. They drafted key defensive players who have showcased impressive pass-rushing capabilities during their collegiate careers, while also adding a cornerback in the later stages.
Reflecting on a strong performance from last season, the Packers’ defense made it into the NFL’s top 10 rankings for the first time since 2015. They were sixth overall, with an average of 19.9 points conceded per game.
Kicking off their selections on Saturday, Green Bay chose Barryn Sorrell, an edge rusher from Texas, in the fourth round (124th overall). The 6-foot-4, 260-pound athlete has long admired the skillsets of Packers’ defensive end Rashan Gary and is eager to mirror his success.
“Watching his tape, we have similar builds,” said Sorrell, who accumulated 5 1/2 sacks and 10 1/2 tackles for loss last season. “I’ve absorbed many techniques and tried to incorporate them into my play. I’m excited to personally meet and learn from him.” Last season, the Packers recorded eighth in the league with 45 sacks, with Gary leading the team at 7 1/2.
Further strengthening the defensive line, the Packers’ fifth and sixth-round picks included Oklahoma State’s Collin Oliver (159th) and Georgia’s Warren Brinson (198th). In the seventh round, the team brought in Tulane cornerback Micah Robinson (237th) and Cincinnati offensive lineman John Williams (250th).
Continuing their Texas connection, the Packers returned to the Longhorns for Sorrell after having drafted Texas receiver Matthew Golden in the first round. Sorrell, who attended the draft on Day 3, expressed his gratitude for the selection.
“Being here has been a blessing,” Sorrell remarked. “After arriving on Wednesday, I watched the draft unfold and had to decide whether to stay or return home. I’m just thankful I chose to stay. It turned out perfectly.”
Sorrell aims to make a difference alongside his friend Golden.
“It ultimately comes down to dedication,” Sorrell explained. “Matt works hard, and so do I. We allow our work to do the talking.”
Taking a shot in the fifth round, the Packers picked Collin Oliver, whose senior season was truncated due to a foot injury. Though limited last year, Oliver impressed during the Senior Bowl and is thrilled at the opportunity.
“It’s been a lifelong dream,” Oliver stated. “Just receiving this chance to join the league is an amazing feeling.”
Adding another Georgia Bulldog into their ranks, the Packers selected Warren Brinson, marking their fourth Georgia defender in five years.
Following the path of previous Bulldogs like Eric Stokes, Quay Walker, and Devonte Wyatt, Brinson joins the Packers’ ranks, reuniting with Walker and Wyatt.
“It feels familiar, transitioning with former teammates,” Brinson commented. “I am eager to swap one Georgia ‘G’ for another.” Standing 6-foot-4 and weighing 310 pounds, Brinson started four games in Georgia’s robust defensive lineup last season.
Altogether, the Packers drafted eight players and notably did not engage in any trades over the three-day period, a first since 2014. General Manager Brian Gutekunst noticed fewer trades overall this draft.
The Packers’ first three rounds secured them wide receivers Matthew Golden (No. 23) and TCU’s Savion Williams (No. 87), along with North Carolina State offensive tackle Anthony Belton (No. 54).
Head Coach Matt LaFleur is enthusiastic about the offensive upgrades.
“You can’t coach speed like Golden’s,” LaFleur observed. “Alongside Williams, a big, explosive talent at 6-foot-4 and over 220 pounds, we’ve added diversity to our offense. Though still refining route-running skills, their potential is vast. We’re eager to incorporate them, especially considering their versatility.”