The Green Bay Packers are gearing up for the 2024 NFL Draft, with their main focus being on fixing their struggling secondary. Over the years, the team has struggled to find the right pieces to solidify the defensive back position. With five of their 11 first-round draft choices since 2014 being used on defensive backs, the Packers are still searching for consistency. Pro Bowl cornerback Jaire Alexander has been a bright spot, but other players like Darnell Savage and Ha Ha Clinton-Dix have had up and down careers in Green Bay.
General manager Brian Gutekunst highlighted the need to shore up the secondary, especially the safety position, where the team is looking to rebuild. The recent signing of safety Xavier McKinney from the New York Giants to a lucrative deal shows the team’s commitment to upgrading the defensive backfield. McKinney had an impressive performance in 2023, ranking as the No. 4 safety in the league by Pro Football Focus.
Looking ahead to the draft, the Packers are expected to target a safety to pair with McKinney and a starting cornerback to complement Alexander. Players like Cooper DeJean from Iowa and Kool-Aid McKinstry from Alabama are potential options at cornerback. DeJean is known for his versatility and playmaking ability, while McKinstry brings solid cover skills despite concerns about his speed. Nate Wiggins from Clemson is another cornerback prospect that could be on Green Bay’s radar in the late first round.
In terms of safety options, Tyler Nubin from Minnesota and Calen Bullock from USC could be targets for the Packers in the second round. Gutekunst expressed confidence in the existing talent in the secondary, with Alexander and McKinney leading the way. However, injuries have been a concern, especially for players like Eric Stokes, who missed significant time last season. Adding another high-level piece in the draft could be the missing puzzle for the Packers’ secondary.
As the draft approaches, the Packers are evaluating a range of cornerback and safety prospects to address their needs in the secondary. With the talent available in this year’s draft class, Green Bay has the opportunity to add a key piece to their defensive backfield. By selecting the right players early in the draft, the Packers could finally achieve the stability and consistency they have been striving for in their secondary for years. With the right additions, Green Bay could have a formidable defense heading into the 2024 season.
