GREEN BAY − The Green Bay Packers have to wait one more day before making their first pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
On April 23, they watched as their NFC North rivals made their first-round selections.
Here’s a look at how the Chicago Bears, Minnesota Vikings and Detroit Lions picked in the draft and what people are saying about the moves.
Detroit Lions − Blake Miller
The Lions picked tackle Blake Miller of Clemson with the 17th overall pick.
It’s a move that’s garnered favorable reviews as the Lions look to upgrade their offensive line after failing to make the playoffs in 2025.
Analysts see Miller as a right tackle with Penei Sewell moving to the left.
Minnesota Vikings − Caleb Banks
After releasing Javon Hargrave this offseason, who’s now with the Packers, the Vikings needed help at defensive tackle.
Minnesota took Florida’s Caleb Banks with the 18th overall pick.
While a talented player, Banks has a history of injuries that could cause concern. He’s currently recovering from a broken bone in his foot he suffered at the NFL scouting combine, but is expected to be ready before training camp.
Chicago Bears − Dillon Thieneman
The Bears made history in this year’s draft.
Chicago picked Oregon safety Dillon Thieneman with the 25th overall pick. This marks the first time the Bears have used a first-round pick on a defensive player since 2018.
The Bears lost both starting safeties Kevin Byard and Jaquan Brisker this offseason, but signed Super Bowl winner Coby Bryant and now add a young playmaker to the secondary.
This article originally appeared on Packers News: How did Packers NFC North rivals do in first round of 2026 NFL Draft?
Reporting by Dominique Yates, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel / Packers News
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
