The Green Bay Packers’ secondary has shown flashes of potential but remains a work in progress, particularly at the cornerback position. After a rocky start for free-agent signing Nate Hobbs, the team could benefit from additional depth and talent. However, a recent trade between the Cleveland Browns and Jacksonville Jaguars has complicated their options, removing two high-profile cornerbacks—Tyson Campbell and Greg Newsome—from the trade market. With these avenues closed, the Packers may need to pivot to a more unconventional approach, much like their successful signing of Rasul Douglas in 2021. A similar practice-squad acquisition could be the key to bolstering their secondary.
Trade Market Shake-Up
The Browns-Jaguars trade, which saw Tyson Campbell and Greg Newsome swap teams along with late-round picks, eliminated two potential trade targets for Green Bay. Campbell, who recently signed a contract extension with Jacksonville, was not a prime candidate for the Packers due to his long-term deal. However, his move to Cleveland provides the Browns with financial flexibility to renegotiate if needed. Meanwhile, Newsome, long rumored to be available, is in the final year of his fifth-year option and set to hit free agency in 2026, making him an intriguing short-term option for many teams.
With these players off the board, the Packers’ front office, led by general manager Brian Gutekunst, must explore other avenues to address their secondary’s inconsistencies. While trade targets like Kansas City’s L’Jarius Sneed or New Orleans’ Marshon Lattimore have been mentioned in league circles, the cost of acquiring such players may be prohibitive. Instead, Green Bay’s history of finding diamonds in the rough suggests a different path forward.
The Rasul Douglas Blueprint
In 2021, the Packers faced a similar situation when a potential trade for veteran cornerback Stephon Gilmore fell through, with Gilmore landing in Carolina. Instead of overpaying for a big name, Green Bay turned to the Arizona Cardinals’ practice squad, signing Rasul Douglas. The move paid dividends, as Douglas became a cornerstone of the Packers’ secondary, delivering consistent production and playmaking ability.
This low-risk, high-reward strategy has worked for Green Bay before. The team has a strong track record of identifying talent on other teams’ practice squads, with players like wide receiver Allen Lazard and converted cornerback Bo Melton proving their worth after being plucked from obscurity. Gutekunst and the pro personnel team have shown an ability to unearth contributors who fit the Packers’ system, making a similar move an attractive option now.
Practice Squad Targets
One name that stands out is Kalen King, a former seventh-round pick by the Packers who spent his first two training camps with the team. Currently on the Carolina Panthers’ practice squad, King is a familiar face who could seamlessly reintegrate into Green Bay’s defensive scheme. While he has yet to make a significant impact at the NFL level, his familiarity with the organization makes him a low-risk option.
For a more experienced addition, Ambry Thomas, currently on the Philadelphia Eagles’ practice squad, mirrors Rasul Douglas in profile. A former third-round pick by the San Francisco 49ers, Thomas has four years of NFL experience and significant playing time. His size, athleticism, and versatility make him an intriguing fit for Green Bay’s needs.
Other veteran cornerbacks available on practice squads include:
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Tre Flowers (Detroit Lions): A former fifth-round pick with extensive starting experience, Flowers brings physicality and veteran savvy.
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Fabian Moreau (Minnesota Vikings): A reliable depth piece with starting experience across multiple teams.
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Shaquill Griffin (Seattle Seahawks): A former Pro Bowler who could provide a short-term boost.
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Dane Jackson (Buffalo Bills): A versatile defensive back with starting experience in Buffalo’s competitive secondary.
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Damon Arnette (Houston Texans): A former first-round pick with upside, though he comes with off-field concerns.
These players are eligible to sign with any active roster, offering Green Bay flexibility to act quickly if needed.
Current Roster and the Path Forward
The Packers’ current cornerback group includes Keisean Nixon, Nate Hobbs, Carrington Valentine, Bo Melton, and Kamal Hadden on the 53-man roster, with Micah Robinson on the practice squad. While the team appears content with its depth, recent performances—such as the secondary’s struggles against the Dallas Cowboys—highlight the need for improvement. If the group continues to underperform, Gutekunst may have no choice but to explore external options.
A Rasul Douglas-style move could be the perfect answer. By targeting a practice-squad player with upside, the Packers can address their needs without sacrificing significant draft capital or cap space. The team’s scouting department has a proven ability to identify undervalued talent, and a well-timed signing could stabilize the secondary for the stretch run.
Conclusion
The Browns-Jaguars trade may have closed the door on two high-profile trade targets, but it has also opened a window of opportunity for the Packers to get creative. By leveraging their scouting prowess and history of successful practice-squad signings, Green Bay can find a cost-effective solution to their secondary woes. Whether it’s a familiar face like Kalen King or a veteran like Ambry Thomas, a Rasul Douglas-style move could provide the spark the Packers need to solidify their defense and make a push in 2025.