With mandatory minicamp in the rear-view mirror and training camp about a month away, the Green Bay Packers had a chance to get a first impression on their draft class of 2026. We have seen how the coaching staff has utilized these rookies and how they fit into the team’s plans as we head towards training camp. So, today we examine where the Packers 2026 draft class stands after mandatory minicamp.
Where the Packers 2026 Draft Class Stands, Round 6, K Trey Smack
Kicker Trey Smack struggled through an inconsistent spring. When the media was present, he was clearly less accurate than Lucas Havrisik who he will be competing with in training camp for the kicking job. Smack has to adjust to the windy conditions (and later the cold) at Lambeau Field.
It is far too soon for the Packers to panic after a handful of early practice sessions. However, there is some concern about Smack at this point. Some writers have even suggested the Packers sign a veteran kicker to compete with Smack and Havrisik, but that is clearly a case of panic at this point.
Smack did not impress at minicamp or OTAs, but he has time to straighten things out during training camp.
Round 6, CB Domani Jackson
The Packers view Domani Jackson as a talented player who will need time to develop into a quality NFL position player.
As of now, playing well on special teams will be the key for Jackson to make the 53-man roster out of training camp. He will provide the team with defensive depth as he hones his technique and adjusts to life in the pros.
Where the Packers 2026 Draft Class Stands, Round 5, OL Jager Burton
Jager Burton has made a strong first impression on the Packers coaching staff. Yes, OTAs and mandatory minicamp are played without pads, but head coach Matt LaFleur has been so impressed with Burton’s play he said the rookie would be fighting for playing time in his first NFL season.
Burton can play both guard positions and center and the Packers love versatile offensive linemen. The team’s lack of depth along the interior of the offensive line also gives Burton more chances to get into the lineup.
The Packers have a good record of selecting offensive linemen on day three of the draft and Burton has been the pleasant surprise of OTAs and minicamp.
Round 4, Edge Dani Dennis-Sutton
Fourth-round pick Dani Dennis-Sutton made a strong first impression during OTAs and minicamp. Because Micah Parsons will miss at least the first four games of the season and will likely be on a play count for his first few games back, the Packers need depth at edge rusher.
Dennis-Sutton put pressure on opposing quarterbacks during OTAs and minicamp, but obviously, there’s only so much you can learn when rushing the passer in non-contact drills. Thus far, the fourth-round pick has been practicing with the second-string defense with a few reps with the starters thrown in. He has a chance to earn a role in the edge rushing rotation if he has a strong training camp.
Where the Packers 2026 Draft Class Stands, Round 3, DT Chris McClellan
Chris McClellan got off to a good start this offseason. He also adds versatility to the defensive line because he can play nose tackle and defensive tackle. The Packers traded up to select McClellan, and the early returns are encouraging.
McClellan saw reps with the starters on defense as well as time with the second team. His ability to place nose tackle gives him an opening to potentially start since the only other true nose tackle on the current roster is second-year man Nazir Stackhouse.
McClellan will be a player to keep an eye on when training camp opens next month. How he performs in the preseason may also have an impact on his status once the season gets underway.
Round 2, CB Brandon Cisse
Right now, it appears the Packers will bring cornerback Brandon Cisse along slowly. The talented second-round pick will need some time to earn significant playing time on defense.
Cisse primarily saw time with the second-string defense at mandatory minicamp. It looks like the starters will be Keisean Nixon and either Carrington Valentine or Benjamin St-Juste on the boundary. Cisse will play a depth role while he improves his technique. The big question for the Packers is whether he can earn a starting role later in the 2026 season or does he have to wait until 2027.
If Nixon holds out as was rumored last week, that could speed up Cisse’s timeline. It would also give him extra reps in training camp, which would be beneficial for the rookie.
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