UPDATE: Al Harris Quickly Signs Former Cowboys CB Right After Expected Release
Green Bay, WI – April 12, 2025
In a fast-moving turn of events, Al Harris, the defensive coordinator for the Green Bay Packers, has signed former Dallas Cowboys cornerback, Trevor Wills, just hours after his expected release from the Cowboys. The signing came as a surprise to many, with the Packers quickly moving to add depth and experience to their defensive backfield.
Wills, who had spent the last four seasons with the Cowboys, was expected to be released after a difficult 2024 season, where injuries and inconsistent play led to his reduced role. However, despite not living up to his previous potential, Wills has been a proven starter in the league and has shown flashes of his former brilliance.
A Swift Move by the Packers
Harris, known for his strategic defense and emphasis on building a solid secondary, wasted no time after hearing about Wills’ release. The Packers’ defensive coordinator quickly saw the opportunity to add a veteran cornerback with a strong track record and a desire to prove himself after the release.
“Trevor is a guy I’ve watched for years,” Harris said in a statement following the signing. “He’s dealt with injuries, but he’s got the skills and mentality to bounce back. We think he can bring experience and leadership to our secondary, and we’re excited to see what he can do in our system.”
Wills, who had been an anchor in the Cowboys’ defense earlier in his career, now joins a Packers defense that has been steadily improving in recent years. With the addition of Wills, Green Bay is hoping to shore up its cornerback depth and provide more stability for the 2025 season.
Wills’ Career and Expectations
At 29 years old, Trevor Wills was once considered one of the rising stars in the league when he first entered the NFL as a highly touted rookie with the Cowboys. Over his six seasons in Dallas, he racked up 14 interceptions, two touchdowns, and showed his ability to be a shutdown corner when healthy.
However, injuries, including a nagging knee issue that kept him out for much of the 2024 season, prevented him from consistently maintaining his elite form. Despite this, Wills remains highly respected among NFL circles for his work ethic, his ability to cover top-tier receivers, and his leadership on and off the field.
“This is a fresh start for me,” Wills said after his signing with the Packers. “I’ve been through a lot the past few years, but I’m ready to prove to myself and to my new team that I’m still capable of being a top cornerback in this league.”
Packers’ Defense on the Rise
The Packers’ defense, which has steadily improved under Head Coach Matt LaFleur and Harris’ guidance, has been one of the top units in the NFC. Adding a player of Wills’ caliber gives the Packers more flexibility in their defensive schemes and provides a potential mentor for younger corners.
With rising stars like Jaire Alexander already leading the way in Green Bay’s secondary, Wills will now have the chance to compete for a starting role, with many expecting him to push for significant playing time in the upcoming season. His ability to cover both inside and outside receivers could make him a valuable asset in defensive packages, especially in a division as competitive as the NFC North.
“Trevor brings a lot of experience to the table,” said Matt LaFleur, the Packers’ head coach. “He’s been in big games and understands the pressure. We feel like he’s going to be an asset to our defense.”
Looking Forward
With the signing of Wills, the Packers continue to build their roster for the 2025 season. The defensive backfield now has an added layer of experience, and with Wills looking to prove himself, his impact on the Packers’ defense could be significant as they push for another NFC North title and a deeper playoff run.
As for Wills, this could be the last chance he needs to reclaim his spot as one of the league’s top cornerbacks. If he stays healthy and performs to his potential, his move to Green Bay could prove to be one of the most significant signings of the offseason.