The Green Bay Packers’ draft strategy is beginning to crystallize as the team has conducted preliminary meetings with a host of prospects, signaling clear positional priorities ahead of the NFL Draft in Detroit. Information compiled by draft tracker Easton Butler and analyzed by Packer Fan Total Access reveals the franchise has already engaged with over a dozen potential selections, offering the first tangible clues to the direction of General Manager Brian Gutekunst and his staff.
A notable early target is Duke offensive lineman Brian Parker II. Initially viewed as a tackle, Parker is now generating significant buzz as a potential interior lineman following a strong showing at the East-West Shrine Bowl. His versatility, drawing comparisons to the Packers’ own Zach Tom, aligns perfectly with the organization’s historical value on flexible offensive line pieces. With a pipeline already established from Duke following the selection of Jacob Monk, Parker represents a logical and intriguing mid-round prospect for a team perpetually seeking to bolster its front.
Further emphasizing the focus in the trenches, the Packers have also met with Florida State defensive tackle Derell Jackson. A standout at the Shrine Bowl, Jackson is a powerful “hog molly” who could address a persistent need on the defensive interior. With grades placing him as a potential Day Two selection, Jackson’s presence on the list indicates Green Bay is seriously evaluating defensive tackle options early in the draft, possibly as soon as their second-round pick at 41st overall.
The interest in fortifying the defensive line extends into the later rounds, as evidenced by a meeting with Southeastern Louisiana’s Caleb Proctor. While a small-school prospect, Proctor’s inclusion on the Packers’ radar suggests the scouting department is leaving no stone unturned in its search for defensive line depth. This early due diligence on a projected later-round or priority free-agent target underscores the thorough approach as the team evaluates a deep class at the position.
Adding to the depth chart considerations, the Packers have also connected with Wake Forest running back Deonte Clayborn. This meeting points to a potential late-round addition to the backfield, providing insurance and competition behind Josh Jacobs and the injury-plagued MarShawn Lloyd. Clayborn’s performance in pass protection, a critical skill for any Packers running back, will likely be a key evaluation point.
The list also includes several late-round and priority free-agent prospects across various positions. The team has met with Syracuse tight end Dan Villari, Navy defensive tackle Landon Robinson, and Maryland offensive tackle Alan Herron, among others. These meetings are standard practice for building a comprehensive board and identifying players who could contribute on special teams or develop into future role players.
A local connection emerges with Wisconsin wide receiver Vinny Anthony II, who met with the team following his participation at the East-West Shrine Bowl. While a late-round prospect, Anthony’s familiarity and potential special teams value make him a logical candidate for a post-draft look.
Perhaps most intriguingly, the Packers have also conducted a meeting with Miami quarterback Tyler Van Dyke. This due diligence on a developmental quarterback prospect is a routine but vital part of the draft process, ensuring the team is prepared for all scenarios and can add competition to the quarterback room behind Jordan Love.
The sheer volume of meetings with defensive linemen—including Jackson, Proctor, and Robinson—paints the clearest picture of an early trend. With the fifth-year option decision looming for Devonte Wyatt and a need for more consistent disruption upfront, the Packers appear to be casting a wide net for defensive tackle solutions at various points in the draft.
This early flurry of activity, tracked meticulously by independent analysts, provides a foundational look at the Packers’ pre-combine interests. As the draft process accelerates with the Scouting Combine in Indianapolis and subsequent pro days, this list of prospects will evolve. However, the initial focus is unmistakable: reinforcing both lines of scrimmage remains paramount for a team looking to build upon its surprise playoff run and deepen its roster for a sustained championship pursuit. The groundwork is being laid, and the Packers’ radar is actively scanning for the next wave of talent to descend upon Titletown.
