Packers draft preview: Big investment required at defensive tackle

Short term need

Moderate to high. While Devonte Wyatt, Javon Hargrave and Karl Brooks provide three disruptive 3-technique types, the Packers don't have a roster-lock player at nose tackle -- a specific but important job in a 3-4 front. It's one of the roster's biggest short-term needs. Could the right rookie come in and play snaps right away? Most likely. Ideally, the Packers would use a mix of Wyatt, Hargrave, Brooks and Warren Brinson on the ends and have a two-gapping block eater inside. Unless the Packers believe Hargrave can play the nose, Nazir Stackhouse and Jonathan Ford are currently the top two options. Of all the position groups on the roster, interior defensive line is set up best for a rookie contributor.

Long term need

High. Wyatt and Brooks are entering contract years, and Hargrave's contract is set up to be a one-year-and-we'll-see deal. While Wyatt could get an extension, this position group needs more in terms of long-term stability. Adding one or even two rookie contracts to the mix makes a lot of roster-building sense.

Chances of drafting position

High. The Packers are overdue for a big investment in the interior defensive line. With an obvious need at nose tackle and long-term uncertainty across the defensive line, plus the depth of options at the top of the draft class, this appears to be a prime spot for the Packers to use a top pick on the position. The struggles to end last season and the switch to a 3-4 front make it possible that two picks are required to fortify the defensive line for 2026 and beyond. Green Bay had several of the top players in for pre-draft visits, increasing the chances of one becoming a Packers pick.

Depth of draft class

Good. Several strong fits are likely to be available for the Packers on Day 2, and even if the big names don't last on Friday, several more fits could be had on Day 3. Everyone in the NFL is looking for defensive tackle help, so don't be surprised if players at the position come off the board fast and furious. The Packers need to be proactive, but this is a good class for the roster's specific need at defensive tackle.

Potential options, last DL drafted

• Peter Woods - Clemson (30)
• Christen Miller - Georgia (46)
• Lee Hunter - Texas Tech (49)
• Domonique Orange - Iowa State (67)
• Kaleb Proctor - Southeastern Louisiana (113)
• Zane Durant - Penn State (135)
• Jordan Van Den Berg - Georgia Tech (235)
• Bryson Eason - Tennessee (245)
• Brandon Cleveland - NC State (246)
• Anterio Thompson - Washington (296)

Last defensive lineman drafted: Warren Brinson, sixth round, 2026

This article originally appeared on Packers Wire: Packers draft preview: Big investment required at defensive tackle