Packers address secondary in first round of 2021 mock draft

After watching the Green Bay Packers‘ defeat to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the NFC title game, it’s no secret the team needs to get better at cornerback.

All-Pro Jaire Alexander has locked down one side of the field all year long but the opposite has been true from his teammates.

While Kevin King has been a solid starter for the Packers over the past four years, he struggled this year and particularly in the conference championship against the Buccaneers. Set to hit free agency next month, it seems unlikely King will return to Green Bay in 2021.

And with the team seemingly reluctant to give Josh Jackson snaps, the answer will be to look for more help in the offseason. That could mean going after a free agent cornerback, but another possibility is to add a corner in the draft.

That’s how Cody Williams of NFL Spin Zone expects things to play out in April. In his latest NFL mock draft for 2021, the Packers use the 29th overall pick to select Florida State cornerback Asante Samuel Jr.

Over the past two seasons at Florida State, Samuel has 20 pass defenses and four interceptions.

While it can take time for cornerbacks to develop their game at the NFL level, Samuel has the potential to become a starter. And playing opposite Alexander, he could give the Packers an upgrade at corner early on.

The Packers’ best option to address the cornerback position could be to double-dip in free agency and the draft. Add an experienced player in free agency who can come right in and start opposite Alexander, while also drafting a talented rookie who can contribute in year one, provide depth, and also be a potential long-term starter.

It’s an approach GM Brian Gutekunst has taken many times in Green Bay. Don’t be surprised if he does so again this offseason.