Bruno Boys Fantasy Football

If there was ever a year to have a pick in the top 10 of the NFL Draft, it would be this year for the Green Bay Packers. While we are sure they wouldn’t trade in their near playoff victory experience, the draft is full of exactly what the Packers need in 2010: a stud offensive linemen ready to make an impact in the NFL.

Let’s be realistic with the Packers in 2010, their offense is loaded with talent. Starting with Aaron Rodgers, Green Bay scored the third most points in the NFL in 2009 (28.8 per game); although even more impressive is their +24 in turnovers. Leading the league by a ridiculous +9 (the Philadelphia Eagles were 2nd at +15). 

Despite those impressive statistics from 2009, a few others stand out just as much, if not more. The Packers were second in the NFL in penalty yards allowing over 1,000 yards for the season. Even less impressive was the Packers offensive line allowing the most sacks against in the NFL at 51 for the season (over 3 a game).

It’s not crazy to think that this offense can improve by leaps and bounds by bolstering their offensive line through the NFL Draft in 2010. Whether it is an offensive tackle or a guard, the Packers need one, and there are about six that fit that Round 1 billing.

The Green Bay Packers have the 23rd pick in the 2010 Draft, so while it may take them awhile to see who drops that low, early Mock Drafts have two offensive tackles available at that pick.

Bryan Bulaga, OT, Iowa: Bulaga is big at 6’6” and 311 pounds, and the fact that he was very good at left tackle in the Big 10 means a lot. In 2007, he played left guard, and in ’08-’09 he was an all Big 10 selection at left tackle. 

Obviously there is always a learning curve for offensive linemen moving to the NFL, and Bulaga will be no exception. But, he can instantly provide youth to this line that was so porous in 2009, and Rodgers will definitely approve of the pick (then again, any offensive line help he will probably approve of). Bulaga could definitely go before No.23, but it doesn’t look like he will drop past it. 

Mike Iupati, OG, Idaho: Iupati lacks the speed that will allow him to get to the second level; however, at 6’5” and 325 pounds it is understandable. He is undoubtedly the No.1 offensive guard prospect in this draft, and other than some durability issues, he will definitely be a Round 1 selection.

The Packers are probably in more desperate need of an offensive tackle (and Iupati is projected to go to the Pittsburgh Steelers at No.18), but Iupati can bring a mean streak to an unfortunately nice offensive line. As we mentioned, Green Bay was pretty gracious to opposing linemen and linebackers in 2009, just ask Jared Allen and Antwan Odom. 

Bruce Campbell, OT, Maryland: Probably known as the best athlete of the five tackles expected to be taken in Round 1, his 40-yard dash at the combine should represent that (4.85). Teams expect Campbell to be a little raw, but hope that his sheer athleticism can overtake some of his shortcomings.

Campbell is definitely better in pass protection than run blocking, and if the last tackle left on the board, the Packers will gladly take the chance on him. Hopefully some of the inconsistencies that have plagued him throughout college are being solved and he can defend Rodgers blind side for many years to come. 

With Russell Okung, Trent Williams, and Anthony Davis all expected to go higher than No.23, though we have seen weird things happen at the NFL Draft, these three remaining players are the best shot the Packers have at a top-flight, offensive lineman. Aaron Rodgers, Ryan Grant, and the receiving corps should benefit greatly from any improvement in the offensive line. In fact, it’s kind of scary to imagine how good Rodgers can be as a fantasy football quarterback if he doesn’t lead the NFL in sacks against.

NFC 2010 NFL Draft Coverage:  STL  |  CAR  |  SEA  |  GB |  WAS

AFC 2010 NFL Draft Coverage:  BUF  |  JAC  |  BAL

————————

Don’t forget to head over to our Fantasy Football Message Board and sign-up for a FREE FORUM account. By doing so you will be able to talk fantasy football all season long.