Packers get a TE not named Michael Mayer in first round of Lance Zierlein’s first mock draft

Notre Dame tight end Michael Mayer has become one of the most common mock draft selections for the Green Bay Packers at No. 15 overall in the first round.

Ready for a curveball? Not all evaluators see Mayer as the top tight end in the class.

Lance Zierlein’s first mock draft for NFL.com has the Packers getting Oregon State tight end Luke Musgrave in the first round.

From Zierlein: “I know, I know — they don’t draft wideouts in the first round. But how about a tight end? Musgrave is experienced blocking in a zone scheme and has dynamic pass-catching talent.”

Musgrave caught 11 passes for 169 yards and a touchdown before getting hurt during his junior season.

In terms of the tight end checklist, Musgrave has the size, natural receiving ability and elite athleticism necessary for being a difference-maker in the passing game at the next level.

“Musgrave moves incredibly well at 6-6, 250 pounds, and he’s a prospect that will turn heads at the combine,” Packers Wire draft analyst Brennen Rupp said. “With his size and speed, Musgrave will be a mismatch inside the 20s. He’s wired right as a run blocker and brings consistent effort on each rep.”

The Packers’ need at tight end is well-documented. Robert Tonyan and Marcedes Lewis will both be free agents, and Matt LaFleur’s offense needs more production from the position overall.

Could Musgrave, who shined at the Senior Bowl, put himself on the first-round radar with a strong NFL Scouting Combine? It’s a path Christian Watson took to Green Bay in 2022, although he fell just outside the first round.

In Zierlein’s mock, Mayer came off the board three picks later at No. 18 to the Detroit Lions.

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Story originally appeared on Packers Wire