Kevin Roberts' Packer Draft Contest Picks

The first player selected by the Packers in the 2009 NFL draft will be:
Reasons and explanation:

Brian Orakpo, OLB/DE, Texas

Ted Thompson probably would like one of the top three offensive tackles to fall into his lap, but that would make the decision too easy for him.

The Packers clearly need to upgrade behind Chad Clifton and Mark Tauscher, but the elite tackles will be gone, and they'll have their choice between several great defensive ends or outside linebackers.

They'll go with Orakpo, a versatile, beast of a man. He's gifted enough physically and mentally to rush from the outside or hang down low in the trenches. As long as he fairs better than Justin Harrell, he'll be a success.

The second player selected by the Packers in the 2009 NFL draft will be:
Reasons and explanation:

William Beatty, OT, Connecticut

Once they get Orakpo, the Packers will either look for a corner, another linebacker, or finally address their crumbling offensive line. It really will depend on who is available. However, if someone like Pat White or an elite running back is still available, don't put it past Big Ted to pull the trigger.

Beatty is an athletic beast who, for all intents and purposes, shouldn't make it past the middle of the second round. That's why the Packers will snatch him up. Beatty has all the tools to excel in the running game, while has the size and strength to match-up with defensive ends at the next level.

Tie-breaker questions:

Will the Packers make a draft-day trade involving their first round No. 9 pick? (no)
Will the Packers third selection be an offensive or defensive player? (def)
Will the Packers use any of their draft choices (day one or two) to take a punter? (no)

Additional comments:

As long as the Packers stick to a "needs" basis, they should have a successful draft. Despite the claims of many analysts, this is a fairly strong draft on the defensive side of the ball, and the Packers could come away with two defensive starters right away, and possibly even an offensive tackle that can keep Mark Tauscher sitting on his couch as a free agent. Here's to another bag of potato chips, Tausch'!