Packers should double-down at cornerback this offseason

When Brian Gutekunst took over as Green Bay Packers general manager three years ago, cornerback was the team’s biggest need.

Gutekunst made sure that was no longer the case once the offseason was over. He used his top two draft picks at cornerback, selecting Jaire Alexander and Josh Jackson. He also brought back veteran Tramon Williams.

While Jackson hasn’t lived up to expectations, Alexander has become an All-Pro and one of the best cornerbacks in the NFL. Williams had two great seasons with the Packers and played an important role in the slot.

Now, with Kevin King a free agent and depth an issue at corner once again, Gutekunst should take a similar approach.

Doubling down at positions of need has often been the strategy for Gutekunst and to good effect.

After turning things around at cornerback, the Packers entered the 2019 offseason with needs at edge rusher and safety.

Gutekunst first went to free agency, adding pass rushers Za’Darius and Preston Smith, along with safety Adrian Amos. Za’Darius Smith and Amos were home-run additions. Preston Smith struggled this past year but did have 12 sacks in 2019.

Gutekunst also looked to the future by drafting edge rusher Rashan Gary and safety Darnell Savage in the first round. Gary took a big step in his second season and looks to be a key part of Green Bay’s defense in 2021. Savage made the PFWA All-Rookie Team and his play in the second half of 2020 was up there with the best safeties in football.

This offseason, cornerback appears to be the Packers’ biggest need. Alexander is an All-Pro but King might not be back. Chandon Sullivan had a solid season in the slot but struggled in the NFC title game. Meanwhile, the depth behind the starters has been somewhat nonexistent.

Gutekunst should once again use every resource available to turn things around quickly. For the Packers to win a Super Bowl, they need to be strong at cornerback. Doubling down in the offseason and surrounding Alexander with more cornerback help is the way to go.