Green Bay Packers 2018 position outlook: Safety
Despite losing Morgan Burnett in free agency, the Green Bay Packers are set at the safety position.
While the Green Bay Packers have had issues at cornerback in recent years, they have remained relatively strong at safety.
This year the group will need to adjust to life sans Morgan Burnett, who signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers in free agency.
Let’s take a closer look at the position.
Currently on the roster
Ha Ha Clinton-Dix, Josh Jones, Kentrell Brice, Marwin Evans, Jermaine Whitehead, Raven Greene
Who makes the final 53-man roster?
Ha Ha Clinton-Dix and Josh Jones are locks to make the roster. Clinton-Dix will be expected to lead the way following Burnett’s departure. The Packers will also be hoping Jones can take a step up in his second season. He could be in line to start alongside Clinton-Dix.
Kentrell Brice and Marwin Evans will also likely make the roster, which could mean Jermaine Whitehead and Raven Greene miss out.
Key player
Ha Ha Clinton-Dix: It’s important for Clinton-Dix to put a disappointing 2017 season behind him. Without Burnett, he’s the most talented safety on the roster and will need to lead the way.
It’s a contract year for Clinton-Dix. To earn a long-term deal in Green Bay, or elsewhere for that matter, he will need to put together a strong season.
It’s easy to forget how good a player Clinton-Dix can be when he’s at his best. It was just two seasons ago that he earned a trip to the Pro Bowl and was named a second-team All-Pro. He was also part of the PFWA All-Rookie Team back in 2014.
Position outlook
On paper, the Packers look to be set at safety. Considering the fact Burnett signed a relatively cheap deal with the Steelers (three years, $14.35 million), one has to assume the Packers had an opportunity to bring him back, but declined.
If that’s the case, it shows the confidence general manager Brian Gutekunst has in the current group of safeties on the roster.
Working under new defensive coordinator Mike Pettine, expect Clinton-Dix to return to form, and Jones to improve in his second season.
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If this young group of safeties perform well, paired with some better play at cornerback, the Packers’ secondary will be much improved in 2018.