Brian Gutekunst has been steering the Packers' ship as general manager for nearly a decade. As he enters his ninth draft, it's a good time to reflect on the full cycle of his draft classes.
With the recent departures of Elgton Jenkins and Rashan Gary, the 2019 draft class is now history. Let's dive into how that class shaped up, pick by pick.
Rashan Gary - EDGE - Michigan (1st Round, 12th Overall)
Gary was a classic case of potential over production when he joined the Packers. Initially, he played behind the Smith duo - Za'Darius and Preston - but quickly emerged as a formidable pass rusher.
Despite a setback with an ACL tear in 2022, he bounced back strong in 2023. However, post-contract extension, his performance waned, culminating in a reduced role during last season's playoffs.
Darnell Savage - S - Maryland (2nd Round, 21st Overall)
Savage brought impressive athleticism and a solid college resume to Green Bay. As a deep safety, he made a significant impact early on, with eight interceptions and 26 passes defensed in his first three seasons. Yet, inconsistency crept in, and despite a memorable pick-6 in the 2023 playoffs, his tenure ended as he moved through Jacksonville, Buffalo, and Washington before landing with the Steelers.
Elgton Jenkins - OL - Mississippi State (3rd Round, 44th Overall)
Jenkins' journey in Green Bay was a showcase of versatility. Drafted as a center, he seamlessly transitioned across the line, proving invaluable at guard and tackle. His adaptability was a cornerstone of the Packers' offensive line until he returned to center in his final season with the team.
Jace Sternberger - TE - Texas A&M (4th Round, 75th Overall)
Sternberger's selection puzzled many, given his modest college production. His NFL career was brief, with just 12 catches. The sting of his pick was felt more acutely knowing Terry McLaurin was selected immediately after, going on to multiple Pro Bowls.
Kingsley Keke - DL - Texas A&M (5th Round, 150th Overall)
Keke's time with the Packers was typical for a late-round pick. Despite being undersized, he managed three multi-sack games in his tenure, a notable achievement given his limited appearances. His unique contribution to the Packers' Kingsley club is a fun footnote.
Ka’Dar Hollman - CB - Toledo (6th Round, 185th Overall)
Hollman was another high-athleticism pick who primarily contributed on special teams. Despite his potential, he couldn't carve out a consistent defensive role and was traded to the Texans for a seventh-round pick.
Dexter Williams - RB - Notre Dame (7th Round, 194th Overall)
Williams' connection to coach Matt LaFleur during their time at Notre Dame was his most notable link to the Packers. His NFL career was limited, with just seven carries, as he shuttled between the practice squad and active roster.
Ty Summers - LB - TCU (7th Round, 226th Overall)
Summers exemplified Gutekunst's penchant for athletic special teams linebackers. Though undersized for defense, he thrived on special teams, playing extensively for the Packers and continuing to contribute in that role with the Bears and Lions in 2025.
In reviewing the 2019 draft class, Gutekunst's selections showcased a mix of hits and misses, reflecting the unpredictable nature of the draft. As the Packers look to the future, these lessons will undoubtedly inform their strategy moving forward.