Packers: Second-round grade, instant reaction to Josh Jackson selection

Instant reaction to the Green Bay Packers’ second-round pick, cornerback Josh Jackson.

The Green Bay Packers doubled down on the cornerback position in the second round of the 2018 NFL Draft.

New general manager Brian Gutekunst has made upgrading the secondary a priority, and he’s now added Josh Jackson on Day 2 to go with first-round pick Jaire Alexander.

Initial reaction

This is an excellent pickup for the Packers. Considered a first-round talent by many, Gutekunst has added two talented cornerbacks to the roster in the opening couple of rounds.

Jackson was the second-ranked corner on our composite draft board, one spot ahead of Alexander. The Packers have now added two of the draft’s premier corners to Mike Pettine’s defense.

But don’t just take my word for it. Here’s some interesting stats from Pro Football Focus:

The Packers desperately needed upgrades at cornerback, and they have arguably turned a weakness into a strength.

How Josh Jackson fits

Forget about Jackson’s 40-yard time. He’s a real talent and will help the Packers’ defense get better. That’s all that matters.

Jackson is 6-foot, 196 pounds and could become an ideal complement to Kevin King on the outside. This could mean Alexander will spend more time in the slot, a role he can excel in.

Jackson was a Consensus All-America last year. He posted an incredible eight interceptions for Iowa, taking two back for touchdowns.

Daniel Jeremiah of NFL.com ranked Jackson 26th in the entire draft class, fourth among cornerbacks. Jeremiah wrote:

"“He has rare ball skills, which creates some spectacular picks. He’s an effective wrap/drag tackler in the run game. Overall, Jackson might lack ideal twitch and deep speed, but his combination of size and ball skills is outstanding. He is a plug-and-play starter.”"

Jackson is an exciting addition to Green Bay’s secondary. Working with Alexander, King and veteran Tramon Williams, Mike Pettine has plenty of talent to work with.

I expect Jackson to quickly become a starter in Pettine’s defense.

Grade: A

Anytime you can come away with a first-round talent in the second round, particularly at a position of need, it can be considered an excellent pick.

In two rounds, Green Bay has added two of the draft’s top cornerbacks, as well as a 2019 first-round pick. The addition of Jackson here could turn the team’s biggest weakness into a strength.