The Green Bay Packers watched their Super Bowl hopes crumble in Philadelphia back in January as their wide receiver corps faltered. Already without a top receiver, Christian Watson, due to injury, the Packers lost additional options, Jayden Reed and Romeo Doubs, during the game.
With Watson expected to miss significant time in 2025, the team’s need for a wide receiver is clear. Having opted against signing one of several veteran free agents, Green Bay’s attention now turns to the NFL Draft. According to a recent mock draft from Fox Sports’ Rob Rang, Missouri prospect Luther Burden III could be wearing a Packers cap in late April.
Packers Projected to Take Luther Burden III With No. 23 Pick
According to Rang, Burden’s ability after the catch could make him an ideal replacement for two key targets who could leave the team next year. The Fox Sports analyst also suggests that quarterback Jordan Love has untapped potential, having been held back by the lack of an elite receiver.
“Jordan Love’s emergence as one of the NFL’s better young gunslingers is all the more impressive given that the Packers lack a true No. 1 receiver. With two of his favorite targets — Romeo Doubs and Christian Watson — each entering the final year of their respective rookie deals, the Packers might see Burden’s YAC skills as the perfect fit.”
Burden’s ability with the ball in his hands is undeniable. However, Missouri’s offensive scheme often emphasized this part of his game, potentially limiting his route-running opportunities. Despite that, Burden has shown an ability to make tough, highlight-reel catches in tight windows.
PFSN Mock Projects Burden to Land With Chiefs
While some mock drafts predict Burden could fall to the second round, the latest PFSN mock draft also has him going in the first round. In NFL analyst Marco Enriquez’s projections, Burden lands with Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs.
“Adding an offensive playmaker is a top priority after an underwhelming offensive season and a blowout loss in the Super Bowl.
“Luther Burden III is coming off a down season following a dominant 2023 campaign. However, that was largely due to Missouri’s puzzling offensive scheme rather than a decline in talent.
“Burden is strong and physical in contested-catch situations. His ability to win in tight coverage should translate well to the NFL. Some teams may see him as a pure slot receiver, but once he’s free from his college scheme, Burden could unlock even more potential.”
With Travis Kelce likely to retire after the 2025 season and Hollywood Brown returning on a one-year deal, the Chiefs could be looking to bolster their long-term receiving corps. If Kansas City hits on Burden the way they did with Rashee Rice and Xavier Worthy, Andy Reid could have a strong receiver group to build around Mahomes.
Packers Projected to Take Derrick Harmon in Round 1
In a move that could frustrate some Packers fans, Enriquez has Green Bay selecting defensive lineman Derrick Harmon with the No. 23 pick. The Packers have used two of their last four first-round picks on defensive linemen, with mixed results.
That said, defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley appears to be turning the unit around. Green Bay finished tied for eighth in sacks last season, and Enriquez believes Harmon’s physical tools could make a difference, even if he still needs technical refinement.
“Derrick Harmon is a powerful interior defender with a quick first step that allows him to penetrate offensive lines. He checks all the physical boxes you want in a defensive lineman: size, length, versatility, and consistency. However, Harmon’s biggest weakness is tackling, as he struggles to wrap up consistently.
“With two young quarterbacks (J.J. McCarthy and Caleb Williams) in their division and the Detroit Lions’ elite offensive line, the Green Bay Packers need to bolster their defensive front, making Harmon a perfect fit.”
Enriquez also predicts the Packers will address their need at receiver in the second round, projecting Miami’s Xavier Restrepo as their pick. Both positions are areas of concern for Green Bay as they look to remain competitive in a strong NFC North.