The 2020 NFL Draft is just a few hours away and the rumor mill is buzzing with potential blockbuster draft-day trades that would shake up the first round. Among the possibilities on Thursday, the Green Bay Packers and New Orleans Saints could be eyeing big jumps up the board.
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the Saints and Packers are generating buzz with each team exploring a move up in the first round. In addition, the Atlanta Falcons and New York Jets are also looking into deals to jump up in the draft.
The Packers and Saints both have similar needs heading into the draft. Both teams could target upgrades at inside linebacker, depth for their secondary, or could target another receiver to support their future Hall of Fame quarterbacks.
Both teams have also done extensive work on one of the top quarterbacks in this year’s draft class. Given the tendency for quarterbacks to be taken earlier in the first round, it might require a trade up for the Saints or Packers to land their quarterback of the future.
The Falcons have been mentioned frequently as an organization with a strong desire to jump from the No. 16 pick into the top-10 range. Atlanta would be targeting a defender, likely Florida cornerback C.J. Henderson or Auburn defensive tackle Derrick Brown as a big piece to improve their defense.
As for the Jets, the risk of the top four offensive tackles being taken within the top-10 picks could force them to make a decision. Either they trade up to secure a franchise left tackle to protect Sam Darnold or they potentially trade back if their top options are gone.
After months of speculation, we’re only hours away from the NFL Draft finally starting and the truth to come out. One thing seems certain, there will be plenty of movement in this year’s draft.