What strategy does Brian Gutekunst utilize when selecting first-round draft picks for the Green Bay Packers? How has Gutekunst’s approach to trades influenced his first-round selections since becoming general manager? What key characteristics do Gutekunst’s first-round picks typically share in terms of age and athleticism? How does the positional value factor into Gutekunst’s first-round draft decisions? Which positions have Gutekunst prioritized more heavily in his recent drafts, and how does this reflect the team’s needs?
Since taking over as general manager in 2018, Brian Gutekunst has made nine first-round picks, which includes at least one each year along with two in both 2019 and 2022. His history shows a preference for trading up—having done so four times (2018, 2019, 2020, 2023)— and using trades to add additional first-round picks, as seen in his 2018 trade down and the 2022 trade that sent Davante Adams to the Raiders. Gutekunst favors young (21 or 22 years old) and athletic players (with RAS scores of 8.0 or above, ideally 9.0 or higher), focusing on positional value that spans across premium and non-premium positions. Notably, seven of his nine picks have been on the defensive side of the ball, with at least five players coming from top college programs.
Every First-Round Pick Made by Packers GM Brian Gutekunst Since 2018: A 2025 Update
Since taking over as General Manager of the Green Bay Packers in 2018, Brian Gutekunst has made a series of high-profile decisions in the NFL Draft that have shaped the trajectory of the team. As we look back on his selections in the first round, it’s clear that these picks have been a mix of home runs and head-scratchers, with impacts still unfolding as we dive into 2025.
2018: Jaire Alexander, CB, Louisville
Gutekunst’s first draft pick as GM was a reflection of his commitment to bolstering the defense. The Packers selected Jaire Alexander with the 18th overall pick, and the young cornerback quickly proved to be a cornerstone of the secondary. His combination of speed, agility, and instinct has made him one of the premier cornerbacks in the league. By 2025, Alexander has developed into a Pro Bowl player, earning recognition for his ability to shut down opposing receivers and contribute as a leader on and off the field. His impact has solidified the secondary, making the Packers’ defense a formidable unit in the NFC North.
2019: Rashan Gary, EDGE, Michigan
In 2019, Gutekunst focused on the pass rush, selecting Rashan Gary with the 12th overall pick. Initially, Gary faced criticism for his inconsistency, but as he has matured, he has transformed into a high-impact player. By 2025, Gary has recorded multiple double-digit sack seasons, earning praise for his explosiveness off the edge and versatility to play across the defensive line. His development has complemented fellow edge rushers and significantly boosted the Packers’ pass defense, making their front seven one of the most feared in the league.
2020: Jordan Love, QB, Utah State
Arguably the most polarizing pick of Gutekunst’s tenure has been the selection of quarterback Jordan Love with the 26th overall pick in 2020. This move was seen as a gamble, especially coming just a year after Aaron Rodgers had led the Packers to the NFC Championship Game. The choice drew significant media attention, largely due to the franchise quarterback’s unexpected reaction. Love spent his initial years developing behind Rodgers, showing glimpses of promise but struggling to find consistency. As of 2025, after the departure of Rodgers, Love has finally taken over as the starter. His development is still a work in progress, with fans hopeful for a breakthrough season that could mirror other successful quarterback transitions in NFL history.
2021: Eric Stokes, CB, Georgia
In 2021, the Packers opted to bolster their secondary again with the 29th overall pick by selecting Eric Stokes. Known for his speed and ball skills, Stokes became an immediate contributor, stepping into a starting role amidst injuries in the secondary. As of 2025, Stokes has solidified his position as a reliable cornerback, partnering well with Alexander to form one of the best duos in the league. His physical style of play, combined with his ability to create turnovers, has made him an integral part of the Packers’ plans for the future.
2022: Quay Walker, LB, Georgia
Gutekunst continued tapping into the Georgia defense with the 22nd overall pick in the 2022 draft, selecting linebacker Quay Walker. Walker’s athleticism and ability to diagnose plays quickly paid immediate dividends. He became a key cog in the Packers’ defense, known for his tackling ability and coverage skills. By 2025, Walker has matured into a leader on the defense, often being lauded for his ability to read offenses and make plays, both in coverage and against the run.
2023: Lukas Van Ness, EDGE, Iowa
In another move aimed at enhancing the pass rush, Gutekunst selected Lukas Van Ness with the 13th overall pick in 2023. The young defensive end brought a powerful combination of size and speed to the Packers’ front, and by 2025, he has been making an impact. Van Ness’s versatility allows him to play on the edge and inside, providing the Packers with a dangerous weapon in their defensive scheme. His development will be closely monitored, as many believe he could turn into one of the premier edge rushers in the league with the right coaching and experience.
Overall Assessment
As we reach 2025, the narrative surrounding Gutekunst’s first-round draft picks shows a blend of defensive prowess and offensive potential. Players like Alexander, Gary, and Stokes have become foundational pieces, while Love represents a critical pivot for the franchise. Meanwhile, Walker and Van Ness continue to emerge as significant contributors. The true impact of these selections will be determined over the next few seasons, but early returns suggest that Gutekunst has both solidified the defense and set the stage for future talent to rise alongside it. The Green Bay Packers’ future looks bright, bolstered by a series of strategic first-round decisions.
Brian Gutekunst has made several first-round picks since he became the Green Bay Packers’ general manager in 2018. Here’s a summary of those picks along with their respective draft years, positions, and notable contributions:
2018 – Jaire Alexander, CB: Alexander quickly established himself as a top cornerback in the league, known for his coverage skills and playmaking ability.
2019 – Rashan Gary, EDGE: Initially seen as a project, Gary developed into a key player on the Packers’ defensive line, contributing significantly to their pass rush.
2020 – Jordan Love, QB: Drafted to be the successor to Aaron Rodgers, Love had limited playing time early on but showcased potential when called upon.
2021 – Eric Stokes, CB: Stokes made an immediate impact in the secondary, providing depth and performance as a starting cornerback during his rookie season.
2022 – Quay Walker, LB: Walker brought athleticism and versatility to the linebacker position, showing promise in run defense and coverage.
2022 – Devonte Wyatt, DL: Wyatt added depth to the defensive line and has the potential to become a key fixture in the Packers’ front seven.
- 2023 – Lukas Van Ness, EDGE: A highly touted pass-rusher, Van Ness aimed to bolster the team’s front and help improve their defensive output.
These selections reflect Gutekunst’s strategy of balancing immediate needs with future potential, focusing on building a strong, young core that can compete effectively in the league.