The Green Bay Packers stumbled at the end of the 2025 NFL season, exiting early in the playoffs. But there's a silver lining: they've got a solid roster that could easily compete for the NFC North title in 2026.
With the NFL offseason in full swing, all eyes are on the scouting combine. The Packers, without a first-round pick due to the Micah Parsons trade, need to make their draft selections count. Here are three prospects they should focus on during the combine, each with the potential to start from day one.
Jake Golday, LB, Cincinnati
With Quay Walker potentially leaving in free agency, Jake Golday could be a perfect fit for the Packers. Standing at 6-4 and weighing 240 pounds, Golday is an athletic linebacker who plays with a tenacity that any team would covet.
In 2025, he racked up 104 tackles for Cincinnati, showing his knack for being around the ball. With the talent already present on Green Bay's defensive line, Golday could seamlessly integrate into the lineup.
Gennings Dunker, OT/OG, Iowa
Gennings Dunker, a tackle from Iowa, might transition to guard in the NFL due to his athletic profile. The Packers' offensive line is in a precarious state, with key players like Rasheed Walker and Elgton Jenkins potentially moving on.
Dunker brings a gritty edge to his game, making him an ideal candidate for the guard position. We've seen successful transitions from tackle to guard before, and Dunker seems poised to follow that path.
Keith Abney II, CB, Arizona State
The Packers' secondary is in need of reinforcement, and Keith Abney II could be the answer. With two interceptions and 12 passes defended in 2025, Abney has a keen sense for the ball.
At 6-0 and 190 pounds, he possesses the size and toughness needed for an outside cornerback. Abney's competitive nature is reminiscent of Denver Broncos cornerback Riley Moss, who thrived despite being heavily targeted.
Abney's resilience and skill set make him a promising candidate for Green Bay's starting lineup.
These three prospects offer the Packers a chance to bolster their roster and make a strong push in the upcoming season.