The Green Bay Packers have rapidly solidified their position as serious contenders for the Super Bowl in the NFC, largely due to Jordan Love’s emergence as a top-tier quarterback and two bold additions by general manager Brian Gutekunst in free agency.
The signings of Xavier McKinney and the exchange of Josh Jacobs for Aaron Jones at running back have been widely praised as among the most impactful moves made across the league this offseason.
Despite these successes, Gutekunst’s work is not yet complete, and the Packers may have the opportunity to further enhance their roster with some star talent during the NFL Draft, particularly in strengthening a secondary that has already been bolstered by the arrival of safety McKinney as a key component in defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley’s plans.
Given Hafley’s defensive scheme’s reliance on strong defensive back play, cornerback could be a key area of focus for the Green Bay Packers in this year’s draft.
According to Pro Football Focus, the Packers should consider making a significant move up the draft board by trading with the Miami Dolphins to select Iowa cornerback Cooper DeJean.
Brad Spielberger of PFF highlights that Packers GM Brian Gutekunst has previously traded up in the first round for defensive backs, citing the acquisitions of cornerback Jaire Alexander and safety Darnell Savage.
In this scenario, acquiring DeJean, who is arguably one of the most versatile defensive backs in the draft class, could provide immediate impact. DeJean has the potential to compete for the starting outside cornerback position alongside Jaire Alexander, especially with concerns about the health of 2021 first-round cornerback Eric Stokes. Additionally, DeJean could serve as insurance if Alexander were to pursue a trade, or he could potentially play at safety alongside free-agent addition Xavier McKinney.
DeJean is lauded for his athleticism, having been entrusted with return duties during his time at Iowa. As a defender, DeJean has consistently held opposing quarterbacks to completion percentages below 50% and passer ratings below 50.0 over the last two seasons, while also tallying seven interceptions.
Spielberger proposes that the Packers consider trading picks No. 25 and 169, along with a 2025 third-round pick, to move up in the draft. This strategy could preempt teams like the Philadelphia Eagles, Dallas Cowboys, and Minnesota Vikings, who may also be seeking defensive back assistance, and secure DeJean in the first round.
Considering the Packers’ current situation at cornerback, this move could represent a modest investment for a potentially significant improvement in their roster.