Packers General Manager Brian Gutekunst had to be smiling after watching his young team snap a four game slide by beating the Los Angeles Rams 20-3 on Sunday. His nearly down to the studs renovation of the roster this year brought on board 13 players in the 2023 NFL Draft class. Only one of that baker’s dozen failed to make the team, seventh round running back Lew Nichols. The last pick, wide receiver Grant DuBose is still on the practice squad. 5th rounder Sean Clifford earned the backup quarterback job but didn’t play on Sunday. The remaining 10 picks all suited up and contributed in the victory. It had to feel a bit like graduation day for Gutey’s class of ’23, here’s what went on their diplomas.
First round pick – Lukas Van Ness. He collected two tackles, one for a loss and a quarterback hit applying pressure off the edge.
Second round pick – Luke Musgrave. Three receptions for 51 yards and his first NFL touchdown, a perfectly executed 20 yard catch and run in the 4th quarter.
Second round pick – Jayden Reed. Three receptions for 19 yards, a 21 yard end around and a 22 yard punt return.
Third round pick – Tucker Kraft. While not targeted in the passing game, helped deliver a season high 184 yards on the ground.
Fourth round pick – Colby Wooden. Made a huge 4th and 2 stop on Royce Freeman to open the 4th quarter.
Fifth round pick – Dontayvion Wicks. Yes he had a bad fumble but shared team honors with 4 catches for 46 yards.
Sixth round pick – Karl Brooks. He had one tackle but got his hands on two pass deflections, the first rookie with a pair in one game going back 23 years.
Sixth round pick – Anders Carlson. Missed a 48 yarder before the half but connected from 26 and 34 in the second half, 10 of 12 on the year and perfect on PAT’s.
Seventh round pick – Carrington Valentine. Saving the best for last, started for Rasul Douglas and didn’t give up a completion when nearest defender, broke up three of the team’s 10 passes on the day and had two tackles.
Seventh round pick – Anthony Johnson Jr. Making his first NFL start he recorded one tackle, broke up two passes and came down with Jaire Alexander’s tip for his first career interception.
Pretty impressive production for a group that has only reached the halfway point of their NFL rookie seasons.
