Heading into training camp next month, the Green Bay Packers have a few needs remaining on the roster. The biggest concerns on the offensive side of the ball are inexperience, as the most experienced pass catcher on the team may be one season in the NFL.
That certainly is a risky proposition given how inexperienced Jordan Love, their new starting quarterback, is as well. But, the talent is there for that group to succeed as a veteran addition would do wonders for that group.
Defensively is where the team’s biggest needs remain this offseason. While fans would point to the safety spot as the one needing the most improvements, the Packers at least have depth at that spot.
The same cannot be said about the cornerback position. Jaire Alexander is a star and Rasul Douglas has played well behind him in recent seasons. However, the depth behind them is shaky, which is a big reason why PFF has named the cornerback position the Packers’ biggest remaining need.
“Without a solid timetable on Eric Stokes’ return, the Packers are very thin at cornerback. Jaire Alexander and Rasul Douglas should have starting spots locked down, but slot cornerback could be a point of weakness if Stokes is slow to return to action.
The listed starter, Keisean Nixon, played 169 coverage snaps last year and allowed a catch on 78.6% of passes into his coverage. Beyond him, Shemar Jean-Charles primarily played on special teams in 2022, which could mean seventh-round rookie Carrington Valentine will get a chance to win the role. Regardless, the Packers are paper thin at cornerback right now and should look to bring in another player of significance before the start of the season.”
That certainly is a shaky situation to enter a training camp with. While the team is certainly hoping for good health, things happen that are outside of their control. The best they can do is be prepared, and right now, it seems that the Packers aren’t.
Jaire Alexander has missed some time throughout his career, so having reinforcements behind him is a must. Keisean Nixon was a Pro Bowler last season but for his work as a return man; he isn’t very tested as a cornerback. As pointed out by PFF, the same can be said for Shem Jean-Charles.
There are players that are elevated from special teams to roles on other units regularly, but usually, they are eased into it. The Packers are one injury away from a special teams player becoming a starter on defense, which is something they should do everything in their power to avoid.