2021 NFL Draft: New York Jets find new franchise QB in NFL mock draft

2021 NFL Draft: Round 1, Pick 26

The Green Bay Packers have had an incredible start to the 2020 season, knocking off division rivals in back-to-back weeks to kick off the year. Aaron Rodgers and company should be looked at as legitimate contenders in the NFC this season and will likely be picking late in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft. In this mock draft, they pick at No. 26 overall, where they are able to get Rodgers an exciting offensive weapon.

Rashod Bateman is not the biggest, strongest, fastest or most athletic wide receiver in the 2021 NFL Draft class, but he has a solid combination of everything that he uses to win on a consistent basis. Bateman is a strong route runner who understands how to set up opposing defenders and create space for himself on a consistent basis. He also displays strong hands and great concentration in contested-catch situations.

Bateman is an exciting target who can make an impact in a variety of situations, but he really stands out as a playmaker with the ball in his hands. The Minnesota product is not the most explosive ball-carrier, but he is a smooth and smart runner who knows how to create after the catch. Bateman gets upfield quickly after the catch and shows an impressive combination of natural elusiveness and power at the point of contact. Simply put, he is hard to bring down.

At some point, the Packers need to invest in their wide receiver situation and this feels like a great opportunity to attack the position. Bateman is a fantastic player who would fit the team well and provide immediate value for Rodgers in the passing game.