With Jordan Love emerging as a top quarterback and general manager Brian Gutekunst making two bold free-agent additions, the Green Bay Packers have swiftly become serious Super Bowl contenders in the NFC.
Xavier McKinney’s signing and the apparent trade of Josh Jacobs for Aaron Jones at running back have been praised as two of the league’s best offseason decisions.
Gutekunst’s work isn’t over, either, and the Packers could be able to improve their secondary—which has already been strengthened by the addition of safety McKinney as a focal point in Jeff Hafley’s defense—with some star power at the NFL Draft.
Given Hafley’s emphasis on strong defensive back play in his scheme, cornerback stands out as a potential area of focus in this year’s draft.
Pro Football Focus suggests that the Packers should make a significant move up the board, trading with the Miami Dolphins to secure Iowa cornerback Cooper DeJean.
Brad Spielberger of PFF notes, “Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst has traded up in the first round for defensive backs twice already in his young career,” citing the acquisitions of cornerback Jaire Alexander and safety Darnell Savage. Spielberger believes that DeJean, touted as one of the most versatile defensive backs in the class, could be a valuable addition to the Packers. DeJean has the potential to compete for the starting outside cornerback position opposite Jaire Alexander, especially with uncertainties surrounding the health of 2021 first-round cornerback Eric Stokes. Additionally, DeJean could serve as insurance in case Alexander is traded, or he could play at safety alongside free-agent acquisition Xavier McKinney.
DeJean is praised for his athleticism, having been entrusted with return duties during his time at Iowa. Spielberger highlights DeJean’s impressive punt return for a touchdown against Minnesota, showcasing his agility and playmaking ability. As a defender, DeJean has maintained completion percentages below 50% and passer ratings below 50.0 when targeted over the past two seasons, while also recording seven interceptions.
In order to guarantee that DeJean is selected in the first round, Spielberger advises the Packers trade picks No. 25 and 169 in addition to a 2025 third-round pick to avoid teams like the Philadelphia Eagles, Dallas Cowboys, and Minnesota Vikings who may be looking for defensive back help. Considering the current situation of the Packers’ cornerback room, it might end up being a minor investment for a potentially significant improvement.
Cooper DeJean NFL Draft Scouting Report
DeJean might be the kind of player who comes in and improves things right away.
In the previous campaign, DeJean recorded 41 total tackles and two interceptions.
For NFL.com, NFL Media’s Lance Zierline describes the player as a “very competitive defensive back with plus ball skills and noteworthy special teams value.” “DeJean has tight hips and powerful arms, making him large and packed for a cornerback. Although he produces a lot of interceptions, his movements are more linear than fluid, and he lacks the effortless direction shift that is necessary for man covering at the highest levels. Using his instincts to challenge quarterbacks and his powerful downhill burst to smack whatever needs pounding, he plays his best football with his eyes forward.
DeJean is a player that can contribute to special teams, particularly in the return game, in addition to his success as a cornerback.
Why Packers’ Xavier McKinney is a ‘unique’ Player
The acquisition of McKinney was a pivotal move for the Packers during the offseason, particularly notable for a franchise that typically refrains from significant spending in the top tier of the free-agent market.
McKinney’s addition signifies a shift for the Packers, as he is recognized as a rising star and one of the top players in his position. His presence offers the Packers an opportunity to establish a strong foundation for their secondary moving forward.
According to Gutekunst, the decision to add McKinney to the Packers’ roster was a no-brainer, given his exceptional performance during the previous season.
Speaking to reporters at the NFL Annual Meeting in Orlando, Gutekunst emphasized McKinney’s unique skill set and value as a player. He described McKinney as a standout safety in the league, capable of making game-changing plays. Additionally, Gutekunst highlighted McKinney’s potential to serve as a leader within the team, making him an ideal addition to the Packers’ roster.
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