The Unpacking Future Packers Countdown is a countdown of 100 prospects that could be selected by the Green Bay Packers in the 2022 NFL Draft.
Since the Ted Thompson days, the Green Bay Packers have done a great job of finding offensive line talent on day three of the NFL Draft. Players like David Bakhtiari, Josh Sitton, TJ Lang, Corey Linsley and JC Tretter were all drafted on the draft’s third day.
An offensive lineman that Brian Gutekunst could target on the third day of the 2022 NFL Draft is Luke Goedeke. The Central Michigan right tackle checks in at No. 32 in the Unpacking Future Packers countdown.
Goedeke started his collegiate career at Wisconsin-Stevens Point where he played tight end. After one season at Stevens Point, Goedeke transferred to Central Michigan. Goedeke missed the 2020 season with a leg injury and finished his career with 25 career starts at right tackle.
“After missing all of 2020 with a knee injury that required surgery, he bounced back to have a solid season as the Chippewas’ right tackle,” Christian Booher, the sports editor for CM Life, said. “With he and Bernhard Raimann, CMU had arguably the best bookend tackle duo in the Mid-American Conference. The whole offensive line was solid, but Goedeke stood out with his performance as a run blocker. With his help, running back Lew Nichols III was able to amass a nation-leading 1,848 yards on the ground. He was a very important piece in that puzzle.”
Goedeke is pro-ready as a run blocker. He has the movement skills that teams will love. He easily climbs to the second level and hits his targets. He has good lateral agility. Goedeke creates movement with his strong lower half.
“When it comes to his performance as a run blocker, it goes back to his athleticism,” Booher said. “He’s able to get ahead of the play and make downfield blocks after setting the tone at the line of scrimmage. Movement is never an issue with Goedeke. It was impressive to see how well he moved in 2021 after the knee surgery. He doesn’t mess around with players away from the play, instead getting up field and providing downfield blocking for running backs.”
This past season Goedeke was graded as one of the best run-blocking offensive lineman in college football by Pro Football Focus. A big reason for his success as a run blocker is due to his athleticism. He has fluid movement skills with his agile feet and lower body flexibility.
“A converted tight end, he is both agile and mobile,” Booher said. “After putting on the weight necessary to transition to the offensive line, Goedeke became very good at finishing blocks and pummeling opposing defenders. He blocks for the entirety of the play, putting defenders on their backs countless times. He uses his athletic ability to out-maneuver defenders and finish blocks emphatically. Watching him perform, especially in the run game, is impressive.”
In pass protection, Goedeke has quick hands, striking confidently with strong grip strength. He has quick, controlled steps in his lateral slide. Goedeke has a high football IQ and understands angles and pass sets. He has a strong core and good balance contact.
“Goedeke did not allow a sack in 2021, giving up a total of just four hurries,” Booher said. “He finished with a Pro Football Focus grade of 77.8 this season in the pass blocking department, indicating that he is growing. He can hang with edge rushers thanks to his athleticism. There were some tough games, including a week three matchup with LSU, where he struggled with faster defensive ends, but even then he did not allow a sack. He’s very efficient at the line of scrimmage in pass sets and is working to continue improving.”
Fit with the Packers
Goedeke has the versatility and athleticism to play tackle, guard or center. While he never played guard or center, he may be a better fit inside at the next level.
Since taking over as general manager in 2018, Gutekunst has selected at least one offensive lineman every year. His commitment to building a great offensive line is a big reason why the Packers have been able to withstand key injuries (David Bakhtiari, Elgton Jenkins, Billy Turner, Josh Myers, etc.).
A player like Goedeke could fight for starting reps at right tackle or guard. If the Central Michigan product doesn’t earn a starting role he could provide five-position versatility as a key reserve.
“Some scouts believe he may wind up on the inside at the next level, though I believe he will do well wherever he is placed,” Booher said. “At 6-foot-5, he has great size and athleticism to go with it. He’s strong and has told reporters he loves finishing plays and putting defenders in the dirt. That’s the type of mentality I would like to have on my team. On a personal note, he was always polite with the media and gave us thoughtful answers. He was a great player to cover and I’m hoping he finds success wherever he lands.”
