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Green Bay Packers Safety Javon Bullard Named Top Pick of Draft

Originally posted on Packers Coverage | By Nick Ziegler | Last updated 5/4/24

ESPN recently ranked the 100 Top picks, steals, and fits in the 2024 NFL Draft, which included several Green Bay Packers players. For Green Bay, they should be pleased that they had a few of their selections make the list.

One of the selections for the Packers came in ranked at No. 82 and that was the selection of safety Javon Bullard. Bullard was selected by the Packers late in the second round, as they prioritized getting help and adding depth in their secondary in this draft.

ESPN factored in a few different things into their overall ratings of picks and here’s what they had to say about the Bullard selection.

The Packers identified a need in the secondary this offseason and aggressively attacked it, signing free agent Xavier McKinney and drafting three safeties in the top five rounds. Bullard should see immediate starting snaps opposite McKinney in the split-safety look. He’s a sure tackler with awesome read-and-react skills.

When picking a player in the second round, it is always good if you believe that they will be able to play in their rookie season and contribute to some capacity. Depth is so important in the NFL these days and with teams constantly reaching for quarterbacks now in the first round, this allows teams to get talented players with their second-round selections.

For Bullard, he was the first of three safeties selected by the Packers. They have overhauled the position this offseason, starting with the signing of former New York Giants star, Xavier McKinney. McKinney is widely regarded as a very good safety, and now the Packers will be hoping to pair Bullard with him for years to come.

From a franchise perspective, getting guys on these types of lists is always encouraging to see. It not only means that the player is talented, but it means that the team didn’t reach to address a need.

Hitting on value is as important as need. In 2024, it certainly seems like Bullard is poised to be a big-time contributor for Green Bay.

This article first appeared on Packers Coverage and was syndicated with permission.

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