Green Bay Packers 2009 Draft Review

With everyone in awe over Bill Belichick's marvelous ability to gather four second-rounders, the rest of the NFL was amazed that Ted Thompson was actually trading up for a change.

While the change of direction would have normally been accepted in the past, trading a second-rounder and two third-rounders for one pick didn't seem to sit particularly well with the Packers faithful.

However, if you look closer, Thompson was pulling off quite possibly the greatest move of this year's draft.

After Green Bay stood by and watched other teams sign marquee free agents, swing blockbuster trades, and trade up early in the draft, Thompson was quiet and restrained.

He had a plan. And whether we like it or not, this man is a genius.

Yes, the very man that drove Brett Favre out of Cheese Country, the same guy who only blinks twice an hour, could stare a cat into it's deathbed, and is always known for collecting picks rather than giving them away.

Regardless, Thompson has proven his worth—that is, if you believe what I believe: These prospects are quite possibly the best group of the entire NFL Draft.

Read on for further analysis:

B.J. Raji, DT, Boston College

He's a bit short for defensive tackler (6'1''), but he's a massive man who can clog the middle of the line as well as rush the passer effectively. He has Warren Sapp written all over him.

If he can keep his weight in check, Raji may go down as the best draft pick for the Packers in some time.

Clay Matthews, OLB, USC

Matthews has limited experience, but his athleticism, pedigree, and understanding of the game is off the charts.

Arguably the best prospect of all the talented USC 'backers, Matthews brings to Green Bay the outside pass-rushing they've been looking for, while also possessing the athleticism and speed to provide solid coverage.

T.J. Lang, OT, Eastern Michigan

Lang dropped considerably down the draft board due to his lack of a true position and his average quickness. However, he has the size, athleticism, and versatility to help the Packers offensive line in a number of ways.

Quinn Johnson, FB, LSU

Green Bay doesn't seem to be content with Korey Hall or John Kuhn anymore, and grabbing Johnson was a sign that they're even more committed to the run game than ever before.

Johnson is a stout run-blocker, with good strength and power. He is a decent receiver out of the backfield, but is mostly around for his blocking.

Jamon Meredith, OT, South Carolina

Originally a second round prospect, Meredith dropped mainly due to other teams' needs, and possibly his less-than-ideal size.

Meredith is strong and very athletic for a tackle, and even has the versatility to move in at guard. He is a true sleeper in this draft, and could prove to be a major steal for Green Bay.

Jarius Wynn, DE, Georgia

Wynn has ideal size, and possesses the motor needed to make an NFL squad. His athleticism and intangibles aren't elite, however, and he will have to prove himself to gain a spot in the rotation, much less a spot on the team.

Brandon Underwood, CB, Cincinnati

A great boost to their overall secondary depth, Underwood brings a ton of athleticism and versatility. His speed figures to project him more as a safety with Green Bay, but his production in college shows he's fairly effective all over the field.

Brad Jones, OLB, Colorado

Jones is extremely athletic with top speed, and also has solid versatility. Look for Jones to be a stand-out special teams asset from day one. He has the ability to be a rotation guy at the next level, and don't be surprised if he sticks with Green Bay.

Final Grade: A

Overall, the Packers had arguably the best draft of all the 32 teams in the league, and at the very worst, addressed all of their key needs.

By drafting Raji and Matthews, they shored up the inside of their 3-4 scheme while adding solid depth to their linebacker corps, as well as boosting their pass rush.

Lang and Meredith give Green Bay extra depth and versatility on the offensive line, and will possibly absorb the impact of losing Mark Tauscher if he, in fact, doesn't re-sign with the team.

Grabbing Johnson at fullback potentially boosts the run game, while Wynn, Underwood, and Jones all round out solid depth at their respective positions, as well as bring extra versatility.

The great thing about this draft is that, outside of Raji, most of these players can help out in several areas, including special teams.

For the first time in years, Green Bay fans can confidently say their team is fully ready for the next season, with a well-rounded team full of young talent and exciting possibilities.