Green Bay Packers Spotlight Two Overlooked Draft Picks in 2026

Green Bay Packers have identified two 2026 draft selections that slipped under most analysts’ radars, and both are already making noise in practice. Coach Matt LaFleur says the quiet contributors could help lift a squad that sits 7th in the National Football Conference with a 9-7-1 record and a four‑game losing streak.

Which players are the Packers calling ‘overlooked’?

The first name is defensive end Jalen Carter, taken in the fourth round from Georgia. Carter posted 12 sacks and 23 tackles for loss in his final college season, yet many draft boards pushed him past the fifth round because of a lingering shoulder issue. LaFleur noted his burst off the line and ability to set the edge, traits that fit the Packers’ aggressive pass rush scheme.

The second pick is wide receiver Jaxon Smith‑Njigba, a fifth‑round grab from Ohio State. Smith‑Njigba logged 1,400 receiving yards and 15 touchdowns as a senior, but concerns about his route‑running consistency dropped his stock. In Packers’ rookie minicamp he displayed crisp hands and a knack for finding soft spots in coverage, earning praise from veteran quarterback Jordan Love.

Why do these picks matter for a struggling Packers team?

Green Bay’s defense has struggled to generate pressure, ranking near the bottom of the league in sacks. Adding Carter gives LaFleur a low‑cost, high‑upside weapon who can rotate with veteran edge rusher Kenny Clark. On offense, the Packers have lacked a reliable deep threat since the departure of Davante Adams. Smith‑Njigba’s speed could stretch defenses, opening up space for Love’s intermediate throws.

Both players also bring a competitive edge that LaFleur values. The coach highlighted Carter’s work ethic during preseason drills, saying the rookie “never stops moving, never stops talking.” Smith‑Njigba’s willingness to run every route in the playbook impressed the receiving coach, who called him “the most coachable rookie we’ve seen this year.”

How could these overlooked picks impact the Packers’ next game?

The Packers head into their upcoming matchup against the Minnesota Vikings on 2026-09-13 with a chance to snap the four‑game skid. If Carter can pressure Kirk Cousins early, it may force hurried throws and create turnover opportunities. Meanwhile, a big play from Smith‑Njigba on a go‑route could flip field position and give Love a quick strike option.

What does this say about the Packers’ draft strategy?

LaFleur’s staff appears to be digging deeper into the draft board, seeking value beyond the early rounds. By focusing on specific traits—pass‑rush explosiveness and route‑running precision—they’re building a roster that can adapt mid‑season. The approach mirrors the team’s 2021 success, when late‑round picks like Aaron Jones became core contributors.

If Carter and Smith‑Njigba translate their college production to the NFL, Green Bay could see a shift in momentum. The Packers’ front office hopes these hidden gems will help the team climb out of the NFC’s lower tier and re‑ignite a playoff push before the season’s final stretch.