Green Bay Packers: What’s next at cornerback?
Nov 30, 2014; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers cornerback
Casey Hayward(29) before the game against the New England Patriots at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports
2015 is huge for Casey Hayward
Casey Hayward’s role in the Packers’ secondary could be about to shift up a gear. After an injury-hit 2013 season caused him to feature in just three games, Hayward played in all 16 games in 2014. Despite that, he only made one start.
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That could be about to change.
Hayward has spent most of his time in Green Bay as a slot corner but was unable to lock down a starting position last year. He finished 2014 with 43 tackles, seven pass defenses and three interceptions – including one he returned for a touchdown in the 55-14 victory over the Chicago Bears.
The 5-11 corner is still young and has plenty of potential to grow. Whether he will be able to contribute regularly as a starter is yet to be seen.
Micah Hyde is another player to keep a keen eye on. Hyde finished 2014 with 59 tackles, a sack and two interceptions.
Jan 5, 2014; Green Bay, WI, USA; San Francisco 49ers wide receiver
Anquan Boldin(81) runs with the ball as Green Bay Packers cornerback Micah Hyde (33) chases during the first quarter of the 2013 NFC wild card playoff football game at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports
He’s been making a transition to play safety, and brings versatility with him into next season.
With the depth at cornerback somewhat thin now, Hyde may find himself spending plenty of time alongside Shields providing Ha Ha Clinton-Dix and Morgan Burnett stay healthy at safety.
Demetri Goodson, drafted in the sixth round of the 2014 NFL Draft, could see more playing time next year.
Goodson only featured in six games during his rookie campaign, recording six tackles. At 5-11 and 197 pounds, he has decent size for the position to go along with speed.
Maybe the answer is already on the roster.
But they will almost certainly be welcoming a rookie to the group …
Next: Help in the draft