While the Green Bay Packers won't be on the clock in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft, General Manager Brian Gutekunst has built a clear and consistent drafting identity over his tenure. Since taking the helm in 2018, Gutekunst has aggressively shaped the roster through the draft's premier round, making 10 first-round selections across eight years. His strategy reveals a distinct blueprint: targeting young, explosive athletes who fit the modern NFL mold.

Gutekunst has never been afraid to be aggressive, trading up four separate times to secure his guy. He's also shown savvy in acquiring extra capital, like when he turned the trade of star receiver Davante Adams into an additional first-round pick in 2022. While he values premium positions—having selected two edge rushers, two cornerbacks, a quarterback, and an offensive lineman—his primary filter is athleticism. The vast majority of his first-round picks have been defensive players aged 21 or 22 with elite Relative Athletic Scores (RAS), often 9.0 or above.

This philosophy has delivered cornerstone players who have defined eras in Green Bay. From the instant impact of a trade-up for a shutdown corner to the franchise-altering selection of a new quarterback, Gutekunst's first-round history is a masterclass in team building. It’s this keen eye for talent that keeps the Packers competitive year after year, ensuring the roster is always stocked with the kind of dynamic players who excel on the field and whose jerseys fans love to wear. Let's take a look back at the foundational pieces he's secured.