The Green Bay Packers have four games left in their 2024 regular season, and with a 9-4 record, they are on the verge of securing a playoff spot.
However, injuries have significantly impacted their secondary, creating serious depth concerns as the season nears its conclusion. The team must find ways to adapt and address these challenges.
Packers Secondary Depth Issues: Cornerback Injuries
The cornerback position has been hit hard by injuries. Jaire Alexander, the Packers’ top cover corner, has missed nearly half the season, playing in only seven of 13 games. Even when available, his performance has been limited at times. Alexander’s presence on the field forces quarterbacks and offensive coordinators to adjust their strategies, as he can neutralize top receivers and dominate one side of the field.
Without Alexander, the Packers have relied on Keisean Nixon on the perimeter, with Eric Stokes or Carrington Valentine filling the opposite corner role. However, this trio hasn’t matched Alexander’s effectiveness. Nixon has been inconsistent, Stokes has struggled significantly in coverage, and Valentine’s recent performances have also been underwhelming.
Defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley has had to adjust his schemes, including coverages and blitzes, to compensate for Alexander’s absence, which has altered the overall defensive strategy.
Safety Position Also Hit by Injuries
The injury problems worsened during the Packers’ Thursday night loss to the Lions. Rookie Javon Bullard left the game early due to an injury and was later seen wearing a walking boot and using crutches. Bullard had been playing both slot corner and safety but was struggling in Detroit before his exit.
Fellow rookie Evan Williams also left the game with a concussion. The Packers remain hopeful he can return for their Sunday night game against the Seahawks. Williams has been an important part of the defense since becoming a starter in October.
Addressing the Depth Concerns
At cornerback, the Packers face a difficult decision between Eric Stokes and Carrington Valentine. According to Pro-Football-Reference.com, quarterbacks have completed 64.4% of passes and posted a 110.1 rating when targeting receivers covered by Stokes. For Valentine, the completion rate is even higher at 81.3%, with quarterbacks achieving a 118.7 rating.
Head coach Matt LaFleur has few other options. Corey Ballentine is dealing with injuries, while Robert Rochell has yet to play a defensive snap in his two seasons with the team. Rookie Kalen King was elevated from the practice squad for the Lions game but did not see action. Kamal Hadden is another practice squad option, but his readiness remains uncertain.
The Packers must navigate these challenges as they look to secure their playoff position and finish the regular season strong.
