Packers: Three biggest surprises from first week of training camp

2. Ka’Dar Hollman makes a fast start

When the Packers decided not to re-sign Bashaud Breeland in the offseason, there were some concerns about the team’s depth at cornerback. But rookie Ka’Dar Hollman has made a good start to training camp and could play an important role in Mike Pettine’s defense.

It’s not often late Day 3 picks make an instant impact in the NFL, but Hollman has the chance to do just that. Barring injury, Jaire Alexander, Kevin King, Tramon Williams, and Josh Jackson will be the top four cornerbacks on the depth chart, but Hollman could compete with Tony Brown for the fifth spot initially.

Ryan Wood of Packers News reported last week that Hollman got some first-team reps, which shows the team has confidence in his ability. And the head coach has been impressed.

“Ka’Dar’s done a nice job,” Matt LaFleur said on Wednesday. “He challenges our receivers each and every day. He’s not afraid to get up and bump them. So he’s made some nice plays.”

If Hollman can contribute right away, it will give the secondary a huge boost. They will be expecting second-year jumps from Alexander and Jackson, but getting contributions from Hollman in 2019 would give the Packers a ton of depth at the position.

There’s a long way to go. But so far, so good for Hollman.