2019 NFL mock draft: Green Bay Packers select T.J. Hockenson

The Green Bay Packers have had themselves an interesting offseason. They’ve been uncharacteristically active during free agency, leading many to believe they have a general manager with the right head on his shoulders. However, last week’s bombshell report of dysfunction between Aaron Rodgers, Mike McCarthy and Ted Thompson has put into question the foundation this team was built on.

So it’s SJLionsFan609’s job to help fix this rival of the Detroit Lions. In our Pride of Detroit Community Mock, SJLionsFan609 is the acting general manager for the Packers.

And with the 12th overall pick in the community mock, the Packers have selected Iowa tight end T.J. Hockenson. Here’s the explanation, courtesy of SJLionsFan609.

After spending big bucks on improving the defense in free agency, the Packers will be looking to the draft to shore up the holes in the offense.

“I’ll be honest, I didn’t have the slightest idea what the Packers biggest needs were, but after doing some research it seemed tight end was at the top of the list with edge rusher, offensive line and safety also being big needs. I had Florida State EDGE Brian Burns written on the card and was halfway to the stage before changing my mind and going with Iowa tight end T.J. Hockenson.

What led me to choosing Hockenson over fellow Iowa tight end Noah Fant was Hockenson’s run blocking ability. Both Hawkeyes are superb in the passing game but as Joe Marino of thedraftnetwork.com stated, “One of the most tenacious blockers I’ve ever laid eyes on. The foot urgency and finishing skills are tremendous, will bury DE’s and OLB’s alike. Effective to collapse or wash down and ensure there’s a soft edge for ball carriers.”

With new head coach Matt LaFleur bringing in his new offense, I fully expect the Packers to try to run the ball a lot more than previous years. That is, of course, if Aaron Rodgers allows that to happen. Having Hockenson working the middle of the field will also help open up things on the outside for Davante Adams as well. 2013 was the last year the Packers had a top-10 rushing offense, and with the addition of Hockenson to LaFleur’s offense, and a full season of Aaron Jones, I expect that to change this year.”

Catch up on all of the picks with our Community Mock Draft Tracker.