The College Football Playoff bracket is locked in, and as bowl season kicks off, it’s not just about who wins and loses-it’s about who stands out. For NFL teams like the Green Bay Packers, this is prime scouting time. The postseason is where draft boards start to take real shape, and with the 2026 NFL Draft on the horizon, Green Bay will be watching closely.
Last spring, the Packers dipped into the CFP talent pool, grabbing three players who played under the bright lights of the 2024-2025 Playoff. Two Texas Longhorns and one Georgia Bulldog made their way to Green Bay. Now, with Miami earning the No. 10 seed and set to face Texas A&M this Saturday, the Hurricanes have a few names worth circling-especially on the defensive line.
Let’s break down four Miami players who could catch the Packers’ eye during this playoff run.
Akheem Mesidor - EDGE
If you're looking for a disruptor, Mesidor fits the bill. At 6-foot-2 and 273 pounds, he’s built low to the ground with a powerful base-and he knows how to use it.
Mesidor enters the postseason with 44 pressures, and he’s been a model of consistency: at least one pressure in every game, and four or more in more than half of them. That kind of production doesn’t happen by accident.
His game is built on violence and urgency. He rushes with a purpose, combining raw power with a relentless motor.
Beyond just getting after the quarterback, he’s been productive across the board-12 tackles for loss, seven sacks, and 20 run stops. For a Green Bay team that values versatility and motor on the edge, Mesidor’s name could be high on the list come April.
Ahmad Moten Sr. - Defensive Tackle
Moten brings a different flavor to the front. He’s a 325-pound interior lineman who moves like someone 30 pounds lighter.
That quick first step? It’s real, and it’s a problem for opposing centers and guards.
Moten isn’t just a space-eater-he’s a penetrator. He’s got the lower-body strength to anchor and the upper-body power to shed, which makes him a handful in one-on-one situations.
He’s racked up 7.5 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks, and 24 pressures this season, and he brings flashes of that “wrecking ball” energy that coaches love on the interior. For Green Bay, which could be looking to beef up its defensive line rotation, Moten is a name to watch.
David Blay Jr. - Defensive Tackle
Blay isn’t flashy, but he’s the kind of player who does the dirty work-and does it well. He’s a stout run defender who plays with excellent balance and leverage. While he’s not the type to fill up the stat sheet, his ability to hold the point of attack and work through contact makes him a valuable piece in the trenches.
After missing time with an injury, Blay is expected to return for Saturday’s matchup-a big moment for him to remind scouts what he can do. If he shows he’s healthy and back to form, he could reestablish himself as a steady, reliable presence in the middle. For a team like Green Bay that values depth and toughness up front, Blay could be an intriguing late-round or UDFA option.
James Brockermeyer - Center
Offensive linemen don’t always get the spotlight, but Brockermeyer deserves a look. A transfer who’s played at both Alabama and TCU before landing in Miami, he brings experience and polish to the center position. He’s started 24 games and, notably, hasn’t allowed a single sack this season while giving up just 10 pressures.
What stands out is his awareness. He sees the field well, communicates effectively, and holds up in protection.
That kind of reliability in the middle is something teams covet-especially the Packers, who could be in the market for a developmental center or a dependable backup. Brockermeyer may not hear his name called early, but he’s the type of Day 3 prospect who could stick around in the league for a long time.
Final Thoughts
The College Football Playoff isn’t just the stage for a national title-it’s a proving ground for NFL hopefuls. Miami’s got a handful of prospects, especially in the trenches, who could be on Green Bay’s radar. Whether it’s the relentless edge work of Akheem Mesidor, the disruptive power of Ahmad Moten, the steady run defense of David Blay, or the cerebral play of James Brockermeyer, Saturday’s game offers a prime opportunity for these Hurricanes to make their case.
The Packers have shown they’re not afraid to draft players who shine under the playoff spotlight. Don’t be surprised if one of these Hurricanes ends up wearing green and gold next fall.
