The Unpacking Future Packers Countdown has placed Iowa tight end Luke Lachey at No. 97 among potential prospects for the Green Bay Packers in the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft. Lachey joins a storied tradition from Iowa, known as Tight End University, which has produced NFL standouts such as George Kittle, Dallas Clark, Sam LaPorta, and T.J. Hockenson.
Lachey, who hails from Ohio, showcased significant promise during his collegiate career, particularly in his breakout redshirt sophomore season in 2022, where he made 28 receptions for 398 yards and four touchdowns. However, he faced a setback in 2023, suffering a season-ending injury after just three games; in those games, he managed 10 receptions for 131 yards. This past season, he again recorded 28 receptions, this time totaling 231 yards.
Riley Donald, a writer for Hawkeyes Wire, praised Lachey’s toughness and dedication, especially noting his decision to return to Iowa despite the option to enter the NFL Draft early. Lachey’s journey reflects his commitment to the program, even after sustaining a broken leg during the last season.
While he may not currently match the elite status of Kittle or Clark, Lachey offers a skill set reminiscent of Brandon Myers, who had a respectable eight-year NFL career. He has recently accepted an invitation to participate in the East-West Shrine Bowl, which presents an opportunity to showcase his talents to NFL teams.
Lachey’s versatility is one of his defining traits; he has been employed in various roles within Iowa’s offense, often lining up in the slot, out wide, and inline. His game statistics may not leap off the page, but Lachey is known for his fluid athleticism, sharp route-running, and impressive catching ability, highlighted by only three drops throughout his collegiate career, according to Pro Football Focus.
Despite frequently working with a changing quarterback lineup, Lachey’s performance remains notable, as he has effectively utilized his size and instincts on the field. Standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing 250 pounds, he displays an engaging tenacity as a blocker, contributing to Iowa’s successful rushing attack.
With the Packers currently featuring Tucker Kraft as a promising up-and-coming option at tight end, alongside the potential of Luke Musgrave, it is conceivable that Lachey could be targeted later in the draft as a valuable addition to bolster the roster. His complete skill set would serve as quality depth behind the current tight ends, potentially stepping into a No. 2 or No. 3 role, particularly if Musgrave’s injury challenges continue.
Lachey’s journey and preparation highlight the impact of Iowa’s rigorous program on developing players for the NFL, suggesting a positive future as he pursues his professional career. Overall, Lachey’s combination of size, skill, and work ethic may provide the Packers with a reliable target and an asset in both the passing and blocking game.