3 moves Packers must make after hiring Jeff Hafley as defensive coordinator
2. Restock the cornerback depth
Hafley's system should suit the Packers' cornerbacks. Green Bay will likely play more press-man coverage and less of Joe Barry's soft zone defense. That's good news for Jaire Alexander and Carrington Valentine.
Alexander is at his best when he can cover top receivers in man coverage. The competition brings the best out of him. Valentine also held up well one-on-one. He had tough moments, but overall, the Packers will be delighted by his performances in year one. Valentine looked comfortable when matched up against Dallas Cowboys star receiver CeeDee Lamb in the wild-card round.
Carrington Valentine was tasked with handling CeeDee Lamb for much of the game on Sunday. Lamb was targeted four times in Valentine’s coverage, resulting in just two catches for 13 yards, per @PFF.
— zach jacobson (@itszacharyj) January 15, 2024
However, the Packers need to add multiple corners in the offseason.
Alexander was in and out of the lineup due to injury this year. The Packers can't expect Eric Stokes to be a reliable starter. He has only played three games since November 2022.
If Green Bay is going to play more man coverage, it needs strong cornerback depth. Alexander and Valentine can start on the outside, and the hope is Stokes can stay healthy and get back to his best. But the Packers need to add more talent, including at slot corner. Teams attacked the Packers in the middle of the field all season. Adding a quality starter in the slot is an offseason priority.