Green Bay Packers: Ted Thompson’s top 30 draft picks of all-time

20. Casey Hayward (Ray’s pick)

Casey Hayward has paid his dues over the past four years, as a productive ball-hawking cornerback and through his patience in being the #3 corner in Dom Capers’ defense.

But we won’t have to worry about Hayward anymore as he moved on to the San Diego Chargers in free agency.

However, his time in Green Bay was more good than not-so-good.

With a breakout season as a rookie in 2012, the second round draft pick (62nd overall) Hayward let the world know that if a pass was coming his way, he would make the play.

He was tough as the Packers slot cornerback. With his ability to hang on receivers like glue, as well as make breaks on the ball, Hayward came up with six interceptions for the Packers in 2012.

He also made 35 tacks and had 13 assists as he showed time and again that he could stick his nose into any situation.

Then came the hamstring injury he suffered while working out just before the start of the 2013 season.

He never healed completely, came back a bit too early and reinsured his leg in 2013. In all, he only played in three games, recording a measly five tackles and three assists.

However, Hayward came back strong in 2014, playing in all 16 games, picking off three passes and accumulating 113 return yards, one which he took to the house. He also defensed eight passes and had 2 fumble recoveries, one that he took the distance 49 yards in a blowout win against the Philadelphia Eagles.

Hayward also duplicated his tackling efforts from his rookie year. In 2014, he made 37 tackles and had 10 assists.

For Hayward playing  his fourth season in Green Bay in 2015 he played well, but not well enough for the Packers to pay him big bucks.

Hayward instead opted to accept a deal with the Chargers.

Overall, Hayward was a solid draft pick by Thompson.

Next: No. 20 (Freddie's pick)