Key Takeaways:
– General Manager, Brian Gutekunst, has signed Xavier McKinney and replaced Josh Jacobs with Aaron Jones to strengthen their ranks.
– The Packers may seek to add more star players during the NFL Draft to bolster their secondary.
– PFF suggests Packers trade with Miami Dolphins to select Iowa cornerback Cooper DeJean.
– The Packers could possibly deal picks No. 25 and 169 as well as a 2025 third-round pick to secure DeJean.
The Green Bay Packers have made significant strides, positioning themselves as strong contenders for the Super Bowl in the National Football Conference (NFC). This is largely due to Jordan Love emerging as a top quarterback and shrewd additions by the general manager, Brian Gutekunst.
Achieving Superior Squad Strength
Gutekunst has been lauded for signing Xavier McKinney and for his tactical decision to replace Josh Jacobs with Aaron Jones at running back. These choices have had far-reaching impact, distinguishing them as two of the strongest off-season maneuvers across the league.
Drafting Potential Star Quality
However, the team is not slowing down as they plan to infuse more star talent into an already bolstered secondary during the NFL Draft. This follows the strategic acquisition of McKinney as a key player in Jeff Hafley’s defensive scheme. Given that Hafley’s strategy hinges on dominant defensive back play, the Packers may place a spotlight on the cornerback position during this year’s draft.
Pro Football Focus (PFF) presented a daring suggestion which may propel the team even further. They propose that the Packers orchestrate a trade with the Miami Dolphins, moving up four spots to select the talented Iowa cornerback, Cooper DeJean. Brad Spielberger of PFF points out that Gutekunst’s track record shows a penchant for trading up in the first round for defensive backs, as he did with Jaire Alexander and Darnell Savage.
Exciting DeJean Development
DeJean’s athleticism, talent and versatility could make him a worthy addition to the Packers. His stunning performance includes a memorable punt return for a touchdown during a game against Minnesota. The player’s defensive statistics are impressive, with completion percentages below 50% and passer ratings when targeted below 50.0 in the past two seasons. He also managed to snag seven interceptions during the same timeframe.
To tie down DeJean and ensure a leap over other teams who might be eyeing a defensive back like the Philadelphia Eagles, Dallas Cowboys and Minnesota Vikings, the Packers could trade picks No. 25, 169 and a 2025 third-round pick. With the current state of the Packers’ cornerback room, this might prove to be a small price to pay for a major upgrade.
Iowa Cornerback Shines in Scouting Report
DeJean, according to an overview by NFL Media’s Lance Zierline, has impressive skills, noteworthy special team value and could provide an instant upgrade to any team. He is also projected to have an impact on special teams, particularly in the return game.
McKinney Stands Out as a Packers’ Top Pick
Gutekunst’s excellent decision to sign McKinney is a significant move of the Packers off-season shows that the organization targets top performers. Known to stay away from shopping at the top of the free-agent market, McKinney’s performance proved him an irresistible acquisition. With a scorecard that boasts of 116 total tackles, three interceptions, one forced fumble, and two fumble recoveries, McKinney has emerged as a game-changer and a leader for the Packers.