As the 2025 NFL Draft inches closer, speculation is heating up. In his latest mock draft, CBS Sports writer Garrett Podell made a bold projection—one that could shake up Green Bay’s defense. With the 23rd overall pick, the Packers are predicted to select Texas Longhorns standout cornerback Jahdae Barron. But is this just another prediction, or does it signal a major shift in the Packers’ secondary?
Podell didn’t mince words when explaining the rationale behind this potential game-changing selection. “The Packers need cornerback help,” he stated. And for good reason. Green Bay’s once-formidable secondary is on shaky ground. Star corner Jaire Alexander might not even be on the roster by month’s end, and former first-round pick Eric Stokes—who never quite lived up to expectations—is heading for free agency. If the Packers want to remain competitive, reinforcements are a must.
Enter Jahdae Barron. A name that already sends shivers down the spines of opposing quarterbacks. In 2024, Barron wasn’t just good—he was elite. The Jim Thorpe Award winner, recognizing him as the best defensive back in college football, he also posted an astounding 91.3 coverage grade from Pro Football Focus, making him one of the most dominant cornerbacks in the nation. If drafted by Green Bay, he wouldn’t just be a piece of the puzzle—he’d be the missing link to revitalizing the Packers’ pass defense.
Green Bay has already made aggressive moves to revamp its secondary, signing former Raiders corner Nate Hobbs to a lucrative four-year, $48 million contract. But that’s just the beginning. The potential addition of Barron could turn what was once a liability into a dangerous unit.
At 5’11” and 200 pounds, Barron isn’t just a cover specialist—he’s a playmaker. His 2024 stat line speaks for itself: 67 tackles, one sack, five interceptions, and 11 pass deflections. He has a nose for the ball, elite instincts, and the physicality to go toe-to-toe with the NFL’s top receivers.
If Green Bay calls Barron’s name on draft night, one thing is certain—the Packers’ secondary will no longer be a weakness. Instead, it could become a nightmare for opposing offenses. The question is, will the Packers make the move, or will another team snatch Barron away before Green Bay gets the chance?
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