Dane Brugler of The Athletic is considered one of the top experts in NFL Draft analysis. He offers invaluable insights into evaluating prospects and identifying team fits. For comprehensive draft coverage, he is a must-follow on X.
A week ago, Brugler released The Beast, his comprehensive 2025 NFL Draft guide for The Athletic. On Wednesday, he dropped a seven-round mock draft, offering insights into the picks for all 32 teams.
In his latest mock, Brugler has the Green Bay Packers continuing their trend of prioritizing defense with their first-round pick, selecting one of the best pure talents in the class.
With the 23rd pick, Brugler has the Packers selecting Will Johnson, a talented cornerback from Michigan.
Johnson was a 5-star recruit and a top-20 national prospect from high school. In 2022, he played in all 14 games with five starts, recording 27 tackles, 2 TFLs, three interceptions, and three pass breakups.
In 2023, Johnson earned first-team All-Big Ten honors and led the team with four interceptions, including one returned for a touchdown. He was named Defensive MVP of the National Championship Game, finishing with four tackles and an interception. Johnson started 11 of 12 games, posting 27 tackles, 1 TFL, and four pass breakups. He missed time early in the season due to a knee injury and later dealt with a lower leg injury. In 2024, Johnson was named third-team Associated Press All-American and honorable mention All-Big Ten. He tied for the team lead with two interceptions and set a school record with three interceptions returned for touchdowns in his career. He went on to miss the second half of the season due to a foot injury.
Will Johnson is a top-10 talent in the 2025 NFL Draft, but his injury history could cause him to fall. The Packers, reportedly frustrated by Jaire Alexander’s ongoing injury issues, need both starters and depth in the secondary. Johnson has the talent to contribute immediately, but Green Bay may look for someone with a more reliable track record.
