no doubt that this year's team could have benefitted significantly more from using the 12th pick on a different position.
Where?
QB? Bench Rodgers?
RB? Bench Jones?
I will give partial credit for sharing the load.
WR? Wouldn't have had Rodgers "trust" until late in the season similar to Lazard. Partial credit.
TE? Takes 2-3 years to develop.
OL? Would a 1st round pick have been better than what is on the field? Jenkins filled in fine while being a lesser pick.
DB? Basically swap out Savage for a higher rated player. Make much difference?
DL? We don't use more than 2 at a time it seems. Gary can play DL if desired. Another Clark would not have hurt. Maybe here.
ILB? Maybe but since Blake also calls the defense, would a rookie have replaced him? Depends how quickly the replacement could get up to speed.
OLB? Maybe someone that played the position but he'd still have to beat out the Smiths.
ST: 1st round special teams player? No such thing nowadays.
You said "
benefited significantly more", not just better.