The Green Bay Packers' revamped pass rush masked the concerns at cornerback in the opening three games, but the Dallas Cowboys served a harsh reminder in the Week 4 tie.
While Keisean Nixon has adapted relatively well as the new CB1, free-agent addition Nate Hobbs has made a concerning start, while Carrington Valentine still hasn't earned enough of the Packers' trust to land a full-time role. The team has rumored interest in free agent Asante Samuel Jr., but an ideal trade target may have emerged.
According to Ralph Vacchiano of FOX Sports, the Cleveland Browns could be sellers at the trade deadline, and he named cornerback Greg Newsome as a potential candidate.
Packers should make a move for Browns cornerback Greg Newsome before trade deadline
The Packers met with Newsome in the lead-up to the 2021 NFL Draft, but they never got the opportunity to select him. Cleveland picked Newsome three spots before Green Bay hit the clock, where it landed another cornerback, Eric Stokes.
While Newsome has never soared to stardom with the Browns, he is a more-than-capable starter and could instantly become the Packers' CB1.
In 59 career games, Newsome has broken up 37 passes and intercepted three. The Packers' secondary is crying out for better ball skills, and Newsome has the ability to get his hands on the football.
Per Pro Football Reference, in his first three seasons, he allowed only 59.1 percent of passes to be completed in his coverage for 1,239 yards, five touchdowns, and two picks for a passer rating of just 81.6. While Newsome experienced a down year in production in 2024, he is quietly bouncing back through the first five games this season.
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Beyond his coverage abilities, Newsome is a willing run defender and tackles well. The Packers swarmed to the ball in wins over the Detroit Lions and Washington Commanders, and Newsome would fit right in.
On top of that, he is still only 25 years old with his best football ahead of him.
Newsome is in a contract year, which could explain why the Browns may entertain offers. However, that also means the Packers would need to offer him an extension if they want to avoid trading draft capital for a one-season rental.
But Newsome is worth it. The Packers are all-in for a Super Bowl but need cornerback help. The veteran is a proven and capable starter, and he could be the missing piece in Jeff Hafley's defense.