Packers Trade Up to Select Missouri DT Chris McClellan in 2026 NFL Draft

The Green Bay Packers traded up seven spots in the third round of the 2026 NFL Draft to select Missouri defensive tackle Chris McClellan at No. 77 overall. The move involved sending their original third-round pick (No. 84) and a fifth-round selection (No. 160) to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to secure the defensive lineman.

Draft Trade Details

Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst orchestrated the trade to address an immediate need on the defensive line. By moving up from pick No. 84 to No. 77, Green Bay surrendered a fifth-round pick to acquire McClellan, who had been projected as a mid-round prospect.

The trade was described as a low-cost move by analysts, noting that the Packers had acquired an additional fifth-round pick (No. 153) in a prior deal involving wide receiver Dontayvion Wicks, which provided flexibility in draft capital management.

Player Profile: Chris McClellan

Chris McClellan is a 6-foot-3¾, 313-pound defensive tackle who played his college career across two programs. He began at the University of Florida before transferring to Missouri, where he completed his eligibility. Over 51 career games and 22 starts, McClellan recorded 133 total tackles, 17 tackles for loss, 10½ sacks, 11 quarterback hits, and four passes broken up.

In his final season with Missouri in 2025, McClellan set career highs with 48 tackles, eight tackles for loss, six sacks, and six quarterback hits. An Oklahoma native, he measured a 5.05-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Scouting Combine, along with a 29½-inch vertical jump and 25 bench press repetitions at 225 pounds.

Scouting Report and Team Fit

According to evaluations cited by draft analysts, McClellan possesses the versatility to play both one-technique and three-technique positions along the defensive line. His experience in Missouri’s defensive scheme under coordinator Corey Batoon highlighted his ability to contribute as both a pass rusher and run defender.

Scouts noted that while McClellan will need to refine his technique at the professional level, his combination of size, strength, and pass-rush productivity made him a valuable addition to address Green Bay’s need for interior defensive line depth and versatility.

Implications for the Packers Defense

The selection of McClellan aligns with the Packers’ ongoing effort to build a more balanced and disruptive defensive front. His ability to generate pressure from the interior while maintaining gap integrity against the run addresses a key area of need identified following the 2025 season.

McClellan joins a defensive line unit that includes established veterans and developing young talent. His role is expected to develop gradually, with early contributions likely coming in passing situations before expanding to three-down responsibilities as he adjusts to the NFL level.

Draft Context and Team Strategy

The trade up for McClellan marked the Packers’ first official move of the 2026 NFL Draft. It followed their selection of cornerback Brandon Cisse in the second round and signaled a strategic focus on bolstering the defense through targeted, value-driven acquisitions.

Analysts viewed the trade as a measured aggression—moving up just enough to secure a targeted player without overpaying in draft capital. The decision reflects Green Bay’s approach under Gutekunst to remain active in the draft while preserving future flexibility.

Conclusion

By trading up to select Chris McClellan at No. 77 the Green Bay Packers added a versatile interior defensive lineman with proven production at the collegiate level. The move addresses a clear schematic need and provides the defense with a developing prospect capable of contributing in multiple roles along the front line.

As McClellan transitions to the NFL, his development will be monitored closely by the Packers’ coaching staff. His early impact may come in situational pass-rush packages, with long-term potential to grow a consistent presence in the heart of Green Bay’s defensive rotation.