In 2024, Green Bay’s defense might appear differently. Following Joe Barry’s departure, the Packers signed Jeff
Hafley. Though unexpected, the hire seems promising. The Packers have the talent to advance because they have
stars at every level of the defense. However, after surrendering the eighth-most air yards on completions in 2023,
there is still opportunity for improvement.
Adding pieces to the secondary will need to be done, regardless of how the Packers handle the contracts of their
impending free agents. Players like Keisean Nixon, Rudy Ford, Darnell Savage, and Corey Ballentine all played
meaningful snaps in 2023. All four are set to hit free agency this spring. Ballentine, Nixon, and Ford also all recorded
career highs in snaps in 2023. They each had their moments in 2023, so re-signing all three players would behoove
the Packers. But, the team could stand to upgrade the slot corner position.Â
Okudah’s signing makes sense for Green Bay because of his relationship with Hafley from their time together at Ohio
State. Green Bay ought to have a little more information on Okudah as a player because they were opponents of his
while he was in Detroit. Before entering the NFL, Okudah set high standards for himself. Despite being the third
overall pick in the highly anticipated 2020 draft class, he never lived up to the hype. Not in Detroit, anyhow.
Following his trade to Atlanta, Okudah settled in with Ryan Nielsen. However, with Nielsen gone and the Falcons
probably making roster changes, Okudah might be the odd man out.
Numerous former college athletes have given Hafley excellent marks. Thus, a reunion with Okudah seems highly
reasonable. Okudah’s chances of signing a free agent contract in the offseason may be diminished due to the depth at
cornerback in the draft. To see if Hafley can realize the promise that made him such a highly regarded draft prospect,
Green Bay should make an offer for Okudah.
DeJean, a man of many talents, is expected to be a top pick in the NFL Draft. DeJean is capable of doing a variety of
tasks, such as punt and kick return duties. Iowa has produced some genuine NFL talent throughout the years.
Tristan Wirfs, Tyler Linderbaum, George Kittle, Sam LaPorta, and many other college hopefuls have become stars
because to this curriculum. When the ball is in the air, DeJean plays it like a receiver, and once it is in his hands, he
exhibits good field vision. He will be a valuable member of any squad thanks to his ball abilities and instincts.
Throughout his time at Iowa, DeJean scored numerous scores from interceptions and punt returns. DeJean would be
a perfect fit for Nixon if he walks, as a slot corner and returner.
Similar to its in-state competitor, Iowa State is producing NFL players. T.J. Tampa was a standout performer in
college, participating in over 30 games. Tampa only let up one touchdown in coverage during his final year (per Iowa
State). Tampa has an impressive tape and is well-known for his aggression both at the line of scrimmage and as a
tackler. He is aggressive when it comes to coverage and is skilled at laying wood. He also shown good vision and the
ability to maintain composure when defending the run versus Iowa State. Under Jaire Alexander’s guidance, Tampa
would thrive in Green Bay and make a wonderful match. A solid showing at the NFL Combine ought to propel him
up the draft rankings. The Packers may use one of their day-two picks to seek him if they had additional draft
resources.
