A trip down memory lane.
As the 2025 NFL Draft draws closer, it feels like the perfect time to look back on some of the greatest selections the Green Bay Packers have made in the modern era.
At first, narrowing this list down seemed simple. But the deeper the dive, the harder it became. That is ultimately a good sign – it shows that the Packers, under former general manager Ted Thompson, have generally done well in building through the draft.
Here are the top five picks of the 21st Century – based on value, production, and legacy – with a few honourable mentions thrown in as well.
5. Josh Sitton – Guard (Fourth Round, 135th Overall – 2008)
Josh Sitton was an absolute steal in the fourth round. He became one of the most dependable interior linemen in the NFL during his time in Green Bay.
He played eight strong seasons with the Pack, anchoring an offensive line that consistently protected quarterback Aaron Rodgers in deep playoff runs.
Sitton earned three Pro Bowl nods and one All-Pro selection with the Packers. He was a model of consistency and toughness, and one of the unsung heroes of the late-2000s and early-2010s teams.
4. Davante Adams – Wide Receiver (Second Round, 53rd Overall – 2014)
Davante Adams endured a rocky start, but he blossomed into one of the best wide receivers in football.
In eight seasons with the Packers, Adams recorded 8,121 receiving yards and 73 touchdowns. He became Aaron Rodgers’ go-to weapon – an elite route runner and red zone threat.
Adams was a five-time Pro Bowl selection and earned All-Pro honours twice while in Green Bay. He leaves behind a legacy of clutch catches and elite production.
3. David Bakhtiari – Offensive Tackle (Fourth Round, 109th Overall – 2013)
David Bakhtiari may be the best draft value on this list. A fourth-round pick who turned into a cornerstone left tackle is a rare find in today’s NFL.
Bakhtiari earned three Pro Bowl selections and was named All-Pro three times, including twice as a First Team selection. He protected Rodgers’ blindside during some of the team’s most prolific offensive seasons.
Injuries caught up with him in recent years, and the Pack have missed his presence dearly since 2020. He remains one of the best tackles in franchise history.
2. Jordy Nelson – Wide Receiver (Second Round, 36th Overall – 2008)
Jordy Nelson defined chemistry.
He became a touchdown machine for Rodgers and was a constant threat in the passing game, finishing his Packers career with 7,848 yards and 69 touchdowns.
Nelson helped the Packers win Super Bowl XLV, earned Comeback Player of the Year in 2016, and spent a full decade in Green Bay. He is still adored by fans for his loyalty, consistency, and big-play ability.
1. Aaron Rodgers – Quarterback (First Round, 24th Overall – 2005)
No surprise here.
Aaron Rodgers was passed on by 23 teams and fell into the lap of general manager Ted Thompson. What followed was an 18-season tenure, including 15 as the starter—one of the greatest runs in NFL history.
Rodgers won four NFL MVP awards, a Super Bowl title, and a Super Bowl MVP. He threw for more than 59,000 yards and 475 touchdowns in Green Bay and will enter the Hall of Fame the moment he becomes eligible.
His legacy is one of elite talent, fiery leadership, and unforgettable moments.
Honourable Mentions
-
Clay Matthews (First Round, 2009): Defensive leader and franchise sack record holder.
-
Corey Linsley (Fifth Round, 2014): Pro Bowl centre and a rock on the line.
-
T.J. Lang (Fourth Round, 2009): Longtime starter who brought toughness and grit.
-
Aaron Jones (Fifth Round, 2017): Productive and explosive back, now with the Minnesota Vikings, but still one of the best Day Three picks in recent memory.
