The Green Bay Packers had only six draft picks in 2026, the lowest number in a draft class in team history. Yet, as we get into the thick of training camp, many of these players seem ready to play a significant role on the team as rookies. Today we look at where all six Packers 2026 draft choices stand thus far at training camp and examine their likely role on the team once the season starts in September.
Where the Packers 2026 Draft Choices Stand Thus Far: Round 2, CB Brandon Cisse
Brandon Cisse received a big opportunity when incumbent starter Carrington Valentine suffered a hamstring injury. Since then, Cisse has been playing with the starters. Thus far, the coaches have been impressed with what they’ve seen from the rookie.
“He’s got the skill set that we’re looking for, and he’s doing a good job of when he makes a mistake – mistakes are going to happen, especially for young guys in a new scheme,” defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon said. “Mistakes are OK, just don’t make the same mistake again. I think all our rookies are doing a good job of that.”
While he has been beaten at times, Cisse has done a good job in one-on-one drills. The big question will be whether he can hold on to that spot once Valentine returns to practice. Cisse has a good chance of earning a starting job with a strong camp and preseason. Even if he doesn’t, he should play a large rotational role with a chance to start later in the season.
Round 3, DT Chris McCellan
Defensive tackle Chris McClellan has also been playing with the first-string defense. That started at OTAs and that continued during training camp.
McClellan has done a good job of penetrating the line of scrimmage and getting into the opposing backfield.
Thus far, neither Javon Hargrave nor Devonte Wyatt have participated in full 11-on-11 practices. Even when they return, McClellan has a chance to start or at least play a significant role in the defensive line rotation when the season starts.
Where the Packers 2026 Draft Choices Stand Thus Far: Round 4, Edge Dani Dennis-Sutton
Edge rusher Dani Dennis-Sutton has mostly lined up with the second-string thus far, along with veteran Brenton Cox. He’s learning the defense and getting occasional reps with the starters.
On obvious passing downs, Gannon has moved Dennis-Sutton to defensive tackle to see if he can provide pressure on opposing quarterbacks. That could expand his role on the defense once the season starts, particularly before Micah Parsons returns from injury.
Dennis-Sutton will have a role in the rotation as a rookie. He could take a bigger role early in the season before Parsons returns.
Round 5: OL Jager Burton
Jager Burton stood out at OTAs and now seems poised to become the swing interior offensive lineman with a strong camp.
Burton missed a few days of camp due to a hamstring problem, but he has since returned. Look for the Packers to give him a lot of action during the preseason.
“He’s got really good athleticism [and] he’s got strength,” said offensive coordinator Adam Stenavich. “He’s an intelligent player and I like his playstyle, too. He’s got the right mindset for offensive line play, so I’m excited about what he can be for us. We’re going to work him at multiple spots just to see where he fits. Obviously, we got a lot of competition in that room to see what our best five are, so, yeah, I’m hopeful he’ll get out there and keep impressing us.”
Burton started strong and needs to keep it up to secure the top backup role.
Where the Packers 2026 Draft Choices Stand Thus Far: Round 6, CB Domani Jackson
Cornerback Domani Jackson has missed training camp thus far due to injury. He has been participating in individual drills during training camp. Even if he was healthy, Jackson would only be a depth piece on defense as rookie and a contributor on special teams as a rookie.
We are awaiting his return to practice to see what he can do.
Round 6, K Trey Smack
The Packers traded up in the draft to select kicker Trey Smack at the end of the sixth round of this year’s draft. Of all the draftees from this year, Smack remains the most likely to impact the team’s success this season.
Smack has a strong leg. He hit on 10-of-13 field goal tries from 50 yards out or more in college. The Packers clearly want him to be their kicker this season as they have released three potential competitors since the draft. Smack now faces no competition for the job.
Unfortunately, the Florida alum has struggled throughout OTAs and now during training camp. He needs to adjust to the windy conditions at Lambeau Field. It’s gotten to the point where head coach Matt LaFleur has asked officials at camp not to indicate if Smack’s kicks are good or not.
While it’s too soon to panic, the Packers have to be a bit concerned about Smack’s slow start at camp.
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