Al Bracco's Packer Draft Contest Picks

The first player selected by the Packers in the 2009 NFL draft will be: Michael Oher

Reasons and explanation: I think Ted Thompson wants to select an OT, since Mark Tauscher is probably not coming back and Chad Clifton is probably going to Free Agency after this year. While the odds of Oher being there are not good, I'd say less than 30%, I predict there will be two quarterbacks, two DL/LB, two offensive tackles, and two wide receivers taken in the first 8 picks.

The second player selected by the Packers in the 2009 NFL draft will be: Jarron Gilbert

Reasons and explanation: He is the perfect size for a 3-4 D. Gilbert has tremendous upside, although a bit unrefined. He will need  good coaching he will get from the Packer's new defensive staff. He is not a great pass-rusher, but has showne that he can take on multiple blockers, which is more important for a 3-4 end anyway. I think Thompson believes he has enough pieces at LB, so his pick here is probably between Gilbert, and Ron Brace.

Tie-breaker questions:

• Will the Packers make a draft-day trade involving their first round No. 9 pick? No
  
• Will the Packers' third selection in the draft be an offensive player or a defensive player? Defensive
  
• Will the Packers use any of their draft choices, day one or two, to take a punter? Yes
  

Additional comments or predictions:

Packers will draft a running back in round five.
Packers will make at least one trade involving draft picks.
Packers will draft a punter in the sixth round.
Ted Thompson will come out of his hole and see his own shadow, meaning six more weeks of winter.

Note: This entry is just for fun, as GBP Community Leaders can not win the prize.