The Green Bay Packers stunned draft analysts and thrilled their fan base Thursday night, selecting the mountain-sized Anthony “Escalade” Belton with the 54th overall pick. Standing at an imposing 6-foot-6 and weighing 336 pounds, the NC State offensive tackle brings eye-popping power to an already formidable Packers offensive line. Fan reactions erupted across social media, with one supporter stating, “dude is a beast!” while another celebrated the arrival of “a bulldozer to their line.”
The selection addresses a critical need for depth following last season’s playoff exposure of Green Bay’s offensive line vulnerability. Belton’s three-year starting experience at left tackle (33 starts, 2,251+ snaps) combined with his third-team All-ACC honors demonstrates a promising foundation. His remarkable frame featuring nearly 34-inch arms gives him versatility to potentially slot in at either tackle or guard position, providing the Packers multiple options in their protection schemes.
With the 54th Pick, the Packers Secure Anthony Belton To Fortify Their Offensive Line for the Future
With the 54th pick, the nickname “Escalade” wasn’t given lightly; Belton’s massive frame and surprising athleticism earned him a 7.72 Relative Athletic Score despite his 5.26 seconds 40-yard dash. The NC State product visited Green Bay pre-draft, signaling the team’s early interest in his potential to transform their offensive front.
@itsCooop dude is a beast!
— Nick! (@actual_nick) April 26, 2025
Belton’s experience in zone schemes aligns perfectly with the Packers’ system while adding a physical edge reflected in his mauling run-blocking style.
His college performance reveals both promise and development needs. In 2024, Belton allowed just three sacks and 12 pressures over 440 snaps, displaying the pass-protection fundamentals that attracted Green Bay’s attention.
However, scouts note inconsistent pad level and clunky footwork against speed rushers as areas requiring refinement. Lance Zierlein’s NFL.com analysis projects Belton as a potential right tackle starter with improved hand-placement techniques.
Why Belton Makes Perfect Sense for Green Bay’s Plans
The Packers’ strategy with Belton reflects a calculated investment in both immediate depth and future starting potential. His arrival comes at a critical time with starters Rasheed Walker and Sean Rhyan approaching contract decisions, giving the team cost-controlled talent for four years during a potential transition period.
The selection reinforces Green Bay’s commitment to physicality as Belton represents the heaviest offensive lineman drafted by the team since 2019.
His selection perfectly fits Green Bay’s developmental approach to building offensive line talent. While technical refinements are needed to maximize his potential, Belton’s natural power and size provide immediate competition for swing tackle duties.
KEEP READING: Top 300 Prospects: Get Your Free Printable 2025 NFL Draft Big Board
“Let’s go! I’m excited for this fine machine!” exclaimed one enthusiastic fan on social media, capturing the optimism surrounding a prospect whose ceiling could transform the Packers’ offensive identity for years to come.
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