With the 32nd Pick in the 2011 Dawgs By Nature Mock Draft, the Green Bay Packers Select...

With the 32nd pick in the 2011 Dawgs By Nature Community Mock Draft, the Green Bay Packers select...

Torrey Smith, WR, Maryland

This selection and write-up was made by ScottJC:

Well, it’s been a rough couple of months in Green Bay (insert eye roll here).  In the just over two months since their Super Bowl win, there really no major glaring weaknesses that need to be addressed. With this in mind, Ted Thompson and his Best Player Available strategy are going to be put to the test. The main areas that they are looking to strengthen right now would be in the trenches on either side of the ball. That includes a backup and eventual replacement for LT Chad Clifton, and additional help either DE or an outside LB to help that Matthews kid. There have even been arguments for upgrades to the WR, DB, and Kick/Punt Returner.

Of all the picks at 32 for the Packers to take, Torrey Smith would be the one that could make the most immediate impact. With his 4.3 speed from the combine and his size, would take several roles.  Initially he will get his chance as a kick and punt return specialist and the chance as an apprentice to the slot receiver role down the road.  Some other picks that I considered were Cameron Hayward of OSU and Brandon Harris of the U.  Both would fit the BPA mold that they are looking for, but they are all play in a position of strength for Green Bay.  Green Bay's biggest need would be an OT, but any of the remaining OT's on the board would be a bit of a reach at 32 and several that should be available in the remaining rounds.

There might be other areas of need this team could use immediately, but Torrey Smith would be a wise investment in the future. Last year, the trio of Donald Driver, Greg Jennings, and James Jones worked well for Aaron Rodgers. Jones will be an unrestricted free agent though and will probably be overpaid elsewhere. That leaves a void at the No. 3 spot this year if you leave Jordy Nelson at the No. 4 spot. Driver is 36 years old and likely on the decline in his career where he might accept a backup role in the future. Having Smith in place for a couple of years before he takes over as a hopeful starter will allow Rodgers to make a smooth transition to a new primary target.

The second round may commence next, time permitting.