The Green Bay Packers’ Cornerback Crisis: Is Jahdae Barron the Answer?

A Secondary in Shambles

The Green Bay Packers are facing a significant problem in their secondary, with cornerbacks departing at an alarming rate. Eric Stokes, Corey Ballentine, and Robert Rochell all left in free agency, leaving the team scrambling for replacements. The only addition to the position so far has been Nate Hobbs, which is far from enough to patch up the holes in their defensive backfield.

While Ballentine and Rochell were primarily backups, Stokes had once been a key part of the defense before losing his starting job last season. However, the biggest concern revolves around Jaire Alexander, Green Bay’s top cornerback. Despite being under contract, reports suggest the Packers are actively trying to trade him. If they fail to find a trade partner, releasing him could become a real possibility, making him the fourth cornerback to leave this offseason.

If Alexander is moved, the Packers will be left with an inexperienced and thin secondary, relying on Hobbs, Keisean Nixon, and Carrington Valentine. That’s a dangerous proposition for a defense that will need to contain elite receivers in the NFC.

The Packers Must Prioritize Cornerback in the Draft

General manager Brian Gutekunst has multiple needs to address in the upcoming NFL Draft. While edge rusher, wide receiver, and even offensive line are areas of focus, cornerback has now become an urgent priority.

Fortunately, a recent mock draft suggests the perfect solution might be available when the Packers are on the clock.

Jahdae Barron: The Ideal Replacement for Jaire Alexander?

In a recent 2025 NFL mock draft, FanSided’s Mike Luciano projected Texas cornerback Jahdae Barron to Green Bay at No. 23 overall. It would be a dream scenario for the Packers, as Barron’s versatility and playmaking ability could immediately help fill the void left by Alexander’s departure.

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Why Barron is the Right Fit

Barron’s skill set would give the Packers a rare level of flexibility in their secondary. He, along with Hobbs and Nixon, can play both inside in the slot and outside on the boundary. Additionally, Barron has experience at safety, making him a perfect chess piece for new defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley.

Last season, Barron was a standout for Texas, recording five interceptions and displaying excellent coverage skills. Quarterbacks largely avoided throwing in his direction, and when they did, they paid the price. According to Pro Football Focus (PFF), Barron allowed zero touchdowns in coverage, picked off five passes, and held opposing quarterbacks to a passer rating of just 34.2.

His ability to lock down receivers while also providing run support makes him an ideal fit for the Packers’ defensive scheme. If Green Bay wants Hobbs to play primarily outside, Barron could step in as the team’s starting nickel corner immediately. However, if the Packers see Pro Bowl potential in Barron on the boundary, they could shift Hobbs inside instead.

A Chance to Correct a Past Mistake?

Many Packers fans still regret the team’s decision to pass on Cooper DeJean in last year’s draft, a player who had a similar skill set to Barron. Now, Gutekunst has a chance to rectify that mistake by securing a young defensive back with star potential.

If Barron is available at No. 23, the Packers shouldn’t hesitate to make the pick. With Alexander likely on his way out, Green Bay needs a new leader in the secondary. Barron has all the tools to step into that role and become a cornerstone of the Packers’ defense for years to come.