NFC North Draft Needs: Packers reload on defense; Vikings look for weapons
theScore goes division by division to identify the biggest positional needs for all 32 teams entering the 2016 NFL Draft.
NFC
EAST | NORTH | SOUTH | WEST
AFC
EAST | NORTH | SOUTH | WEST
Chicago Bears
Biggest need: Offensive tackle
Other needs: Nose tackle, running back, cornerback, safety
The Bears upgraded the middle of their defense via the free-agent signings of Danny Trevathan and Jerrell Freeman and now look to make strides on the offensive side of the ball. If general manager Ryan Pace came out of the first two rounds with an offensive tackle and running back, the Bears' draft would probably be viewed as a major success. While the plan may be to move Kyle Long from right guard to right tackle, it's probably better for everyone if that doesn't happen.
After eight years with all-purpose superstar Matt Forte occupying the backfield, a new era is on the horizon for the Bears' offense. Replacing Forte's 250-plus touches will likely be a committee job as Jeremy Langford figures to be a part of it. Keeping Jay Cutler protected with an injection of offensive-line talent is arguably more important though, as the Bears' offense will rely heavily on his ability to get Alshon Jeffery and Kevin White the ball.
Potential draft targets: If either Jack Conklin or Ronnie Stanley are still available in the first round, the Bears should pounce while waiting until the second or third round for a running back like C.J. Prosise or Kenyan Drake seems most likely. However, if Vernon Hargreaves slides to No. 11, taking a cornerback of that caliber is a no-brainer. A versatile defensive lineman like Ohio States's Adolphus Washington could be a nice mid-round addition.
Detroit Lions
Biggest need: Cornerback
Other needs: Offensive tackle, defensive end, wide receiver
The Lions have been linked to players on both the offensive and defensive line, but it's time for Bob Quinn to address a constant issue in the secondary. Darius Slay is a very good No. 2 corner but there are legitimate concerns about his ability to develop into a true shutdown option.
Because Riley Reiff has never been viewed as the long-term solution at left tackle, taking someone with a more prototypical skill set makes sense. As of now the right tackle spot is essentially vacant, with Michael Ola used as a stopgap at the end of last season. As for the defensive line, after 2015's flame out from Tyrunn Walker and Haloti Ngata, no one is confident either will be able to excel in the middle of the Lions' defense.
Potential draft targets: With a smorgasbord of exciting defensive backs projected to be available in the mid-first round, the Lions will have a chance to immediately upgrade their secondary. One of Eli Apple, Mackensie Alexander, or William Jackson III should be on the board when the Lions pick at 16, but they could wait on a prospect like Virginia Tech's Kendall Fuller or Maryland's Sean Davis. If A'Shawn Robinson is still on the board, many believe the Lions won't pass up the chance to take an elite defensive prospect.
Green Bay Packers
Biggest need: Linebacker
Other needs: Pass-rusher, nose tackle, running back
Once a disruptive defense with a deadly combination of pass-rushers and playmakers in the secondary, the Packers' talent has been whittled away by age and free agency. Forced to move Clay Matthews to inside linebacker, the middle of the Packers' defense has been a patchwork the past two seasons. They brought back Nick Perry in free agency but not Mike Neal, meaning they'll need to address their pass rush via the draft.
The Packers are also without a true nose tackle with B.J. Raji moving on from football. One could argue the Packers' defense was at its best when Raji was a dominant force inside, eating up blocks and taking on double teams. On the offensive side of the ball a succession plan at running back is needed.
Potential draft targets: Nose tackle Andrew Billings and linebackers Noah Spence, Reggie Ragland, and Darron Lee are all possibilities in the first round. All would be immediate upgrades at their respective positions, but look for the Packers to make a play for a speed back like Illinois State's Marshaun Coprich in the mid rounds.
Minnesota Vikings
Biggest need: Wide receiver
Other needs: Offensive tackle, Interior offensive line
The Vikings' young roster is set at almost every starting position. This draft should be dedicated to finding Teddy Bridgewater additional weapons, and working to secure depth along the offensive line and defensively.
The re-signings of linebacker Chad Greenway, cornerback Terence Newman, and safety Andrew Sendejo gives the Vikings a ton of flexibility in the draft. They also signed veteran safety Michael Griffin and offensive tackle Andre Smith. Depth in the secondary needs to be addressed, with Newman nearing the end of his career and 2015 first rounder Trae Waynes struggling early in his career.
Potential draft targets: The Vikings are being heavily linked to Josh Doctson, but with Laquan Treadwell potentially slipping to the bottom of the first round the Vikings could have a choice between the two. The Vikings should look for a versatile lineman like North Carolina State's Joe Thuney in the second or third round. A protoypical nickel like Auburn's Jonathan Jones may be a steal in the mid rounds.
