Top slot cornerbacks in the 2024 NFL Draft
Aaron continues his weekly series with Ben Fennell, talking all things Packers and NFL Draft. This week they look at some of the best fits to potentially help the Packers at the slot cornerback position.
By PackerAaron
Comments (4)
MooPack
February 15, 2024 at 02:50 pm
Cooper DeJean is the one defensive player I'd take rather than an OL in the 1st round. He is the most versatile DB in the draft, imo. Slot/outside/S even lined up as LB a few times. Heck, they even lined him up Offense a couple times. He has the athleticism and intelligence to go anywhere in the DB backfield. He'd fit perfect for the Packers and Hafley could move him around play-to-play. He is a playmaker with ball skills. And an added bonus as a dangerous returner.
Will he drop? It's possible depending on other teams need for strictly outside guys and how many of those go ahead of him. If one team has a high need for a slot versatile Brian Branch type, then he's probably gone.
One name I'm surprised not to hear was Rakestraw, unless I missed it. He would be a very good slot guy as well.
splitpea1
February 15, 2024 at 03:16 pm
Rakestraw was mentioned in a previous podcast with Ross Uglem. I agree that he would be a very helpful addition if DeJean isn't available. He's a physical run defender and has gunner potential for the STs aside from his slot duties. There's a good scouting report on him at Steelers Depot, which I've found to be a very reliable source of pre-draft information.
The only offensive lineman I'd be interested in before addressing the defensive backfield would be Fuaga; but since there's no way he would be available without a big trade-up, it's a moot point.
LLCHESTY
February 15, 2024 at 08:26 pm
Wish they'd just call it slot defenders. There's a lot more safeties in this draft that have played nickel than CBs.
mrtundra
February 19, 2024 at 07:37 am
A lot of the problem I have in doing mock drafts and analyzing players is that so many players are listed at other positions than what you think they are. For instance, Cooper DeJean is listed as a CB, but many position boards have him listed as a Safety. It seems many players in the CB and S boards are interchangeable, position wise. Another position(s) with that kind of problem is if you want an Edge rusher you have to look in the Edge lists, the DE lists, and the OLB lists to cover all who may play where you need them to. Now, with our defensive scheme most likely going to a 4-3, players positions will change there, also. I think our Scouts on Gute's staff should be commended for keeping this stuff straight, because I can't. GO PACK, GO!!!