Packers 2026 draft: Defensive tackle big board

TL;DR

The Green Bay Packers are focusing on defensive tackle and cornerback in the 2026 NFL Draft. The defensive tackle class lacks a clear top prospect, with potential picks ranging from late first round to sixth round.

Key points

Packers need defensive tackle and cornerback help
Defensive tackle class lacks a clear top prospect
Kayden McDonald and Peter Woods are key prospects
Packers have the 52nd overall pick in the draft
Potential Day 3 picks include Jordan van den Berg and Zane Durant

Green Bay Packers

The Green Bay Packers enter draft week with the two biggest roster needs being defensive tackle and cornerback. It's two positions that Brian Gutekunst could double-dip at during the 2026 NFL Draft. This year's defensive tackle class doesn't have a clear top 15 player, and the first defensive tackle may not hear his name called until late in the first round. That doesn't mean there isn't talent to be unearthed. With the Packers in the market for defensive tackle help, let's dive into my Green Bay Packers defensive tackle big board.

Late first-round/early second-round prospects

Kayden McDonald, Ohio State
Peter Woods, Clemson Let's file these two under the "hope they slide out of the first round" category. If these two are still on the board when Day 2 of the draft starts, there is a strong chance that at least one of the defensive tackles in the next wave will be available when the Packers are on the clock with the 52nd overall pick. It could even mean that Gutekunst could get ultra-aggressive and move up to snag McDonald, who could be a perfect fit in Green Bay.

The Packers may be looking to bolster the interior of their DL this offseason, and Ohio State’s Kayden McDonald and Tywone Malone Jr. could be on their radar.

Green Bay had a scout in attendance for OSU vs. Wisconsin and got a first-hand look at the duo.

— Brennen Rupp (@Brennen\_Rupp) October 23, 2025

Second round prospects

Caleb Banks, Florida
Christen Miller, Georgia
Lee Hunter, Texas Tech
Domonique Orange, Iowa State If it weren't for lingering foot injury concerns, Banks would likely be a first-round pick. If he somehow slides to the Packers, would Gutekunst roll the dice on the Florida product, who is dripping with tools? Miller has the power and quickness to develop into a three-down force on the interior. Hunter played a vital role in Texas Tech having the top rushing defense in college football this past season. Orange is a powerful defensive tackle, capable of clogging up running lanes. It would not be shocking to see Orange be the pick at 52 on Friday evening.

Lee Hunter is currently the leader in the clubhouse to be No. 1 on the Unpacking Future Packers Countdown.

The Texas Tech DT is powerful and makes things muddy against the run. The UCF transfer has 7.5 TFL, 2.5 sacks, 16 run stops and 24 pressures heading into the Big 12 CG.

Q&A

Who are the top defensive tackle prospects for the Packers in the 2026 NFL Draft?

Top prospects include Kayden McDonald from Ohio State and Peter Woods from Clemson, with others like Caleb Banks and Christen Miller also highlighted.

What positions are the Green Bay Packers prioritizing in the 2026 NFL Draft?

The Packers are prioritizing defensive tackle and cornerback as their two biggest roster needs.

When is the 2026 NFL Draft and what pick do the Packers have?

The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 28-30, and the Packers hold the 52nd overall pick in the second round.

What are the potential consequences if the Packers miss out on a defensive tackle in the early rounds?

If the Packers miss out on a defensive tackle in the early rounds, they may have to wait until Day 3 to address the position, potentially limiting their options.