Packers use gift from the NFL to make Jordan Love's life safer on Day 3 of 2025 NFL Draft

The final pick of the Green Bay Packers 2025 Draft class was another offensive lineman. After taking Anthony Belton in the second round, the Packers selected guard John Williams, from Cincinnati, with the 250th overall pick.

Curiously, it was a compensatory draft pick that the Packers got for losing another developmental offensive lineman. Last year, Yosh Nijman signed with the Carolina Panthers in free agency, generating the extra pick for Green Bay.

Draft report by Dane Brugler, from The Athletic

A two-year starter at Cincinnati, Williams was a steady presence at left tackle in offensive coordinator Brad Glenn’s zone-based run scheme with some gap methods. He waited his turn as a reserve over his first few years on campus but was ready for the starting job the past two seasons — he allowed just three combined sacks.

At his best in pass protection, Williams quickly gets out of his stance to close space, stay balanced in his mirror and absorb/fend with his hands. He shows functional mobility and body control in the run game to seal the lane, but he isn’t a mauler (physically or mentally) and likely never will be. Overall, Williams has the footwork and pass-blocking instincts that will play well at the next level, but the main concern is about his ability to halt and move NFL defensive linemen. Some of his skills work best at tackle, others at guard — and he might be caught in the middle. — Dane Brugler.

Why the Packers drafted him

The Packers have long-term question marks along the offensive line, because Zach Tom, Rasheed Walker, and Sean Rhyan are all entering the final year of their rookie deals. John Williams offers versatility, something the Packers value.

"Versatility is everything, and we do have a versatile group," general manager Brian Gutekunst had said before the draft. "So we're gonna try to get the best five out there. We're gonna continue to lean on versatility. We have three or four guys on our line that can probably play five spots. I believe in that, that's an asset we have that not all teams have."