Rodgers-to-Rodgers? Packers climb 7 spots to select Clemson star

The Green Bay Packers traded up seven spots to select receiver Amari Rodgers out of Clemson at 85th overall in the third round of the 2021 NFL Draft.

Green Bay gave the Tennessee Titans the 92nd pick and a fourth-round choice to consummate the deal.

Rodgers profiles as a slot receiver in the NFL and could form a tandem with Aaron Rodgers, though the three-time MVP quarterback is reportedly fed up with Packers management and wants a trade.

Green Bay has rarely used the early portion of the draft to get its superstar passer help out wide. The franchise hadn't drafted a receiver in the top three rounds since landing on Ty Montgomery at No. 94 in 2015.

Rodgers enjoyed a breakout senior campaign at Clemson, putting up 1,020 yards and seven touchdowns through the air. He had 1,124 yards and eight touchdowns over his first three seasons combined.

The Packers will add Rodgers to a receiving stable that features Davante Adams, Allen Lazard, and Marquez Valdes-Scantling.

Draft profile

Key stats: 77 receptions, 1,020 yards, 7 TDs, 13.2 YPC

The latest in a long line of pro-ready Clemson wideouts, there's a lengthy career ahead of Rodgers as a slot playmaker. While size limits his upside in some respects, the ease with which he creates separation by setting up defenders in his routes should lead to production at all levels of the field. And when he gets the ball underneath, defenses can't sleep on his athleticism. Rodgers consistently creates impact plays after the catch by getting upfield and making defenders miss. He could easily outperform the lower draft position that comes due to lacking the profile of a true No. 1 target.