The Green Bay Packers face a potential cornerback nightmare, depending on Jaire Alexander's status, but they may get help from a player nobody is talking about.
Kalen King once earned first-round projections, but a disastrous junior year tanked his draft stock, with the Packers selecting the Penn State cornerback in the seventh round in 2024. He quickly put that disappointment behind him and impressed throughout his first summer with the Packers, making several plays on the practice field, including a pick-six on Jordan Love.
King didn't play a single snap during his rookie season, but the potential is still there. Packers defensive passing game coordinator Derrick Ansley has given fans a reason for optimism.
"I don't wanna speak too soon — knock on wood — but he's looking really good out there," Ansley said this week, per Matt Schneidman of The Athletic.
King is already building on his impressive work from last summer. The Packers smartly kept him away from regular-season action to give him time to develop, but they may need him this season.
Packers coach gives fans reason for optimism with second-year cornerback Kalen King
It's easy to forget that King was a four-star recruit coming out of high school and received first-round projections only two years ago. A Pro Football Focus mock draft written in May 2023 had King going 15th overall to the Chicago Bears.
Slot corner is likely his best position in the pros. The Packers have options there, although the former starter at the nickel spot, Keisean Nixon, shifted to the boundary last season. Free-agent signing Nate Hobbs offers inside/outside versatility, while second-year Javon Bullard found a home in the slot last season but struggled in coverage.
King still faces an uphill battle to play meaningful snaps on defense, especially if Alexander stays, but it's encouraging to hear about his progress.
One tough season in college crushed his draft stock, but King has undeniable talent. After turning heads on the practice field last summer, another impressive offseason could turn King's potential into regular-season snaps.
Watch this space.