The Green Bay Packers’ draft strategy is coming into sharp focus, with the franchise zeroing in on a potential franchise-altering move in the second round. According to a major new report from ESPN’s Matt Miller and Jordan Reid, the Packers’ front office is “keenly interested” in San Diego State cornerback Chris Johnson, a prospect whose stock is soaring just two weeks before the NFL Draft commences.
This intel confirms weeks of speculation connecting Green Bay to the second-tier cornerback class. The team has already conducted a formal interview with Johnson and held a follow-up Zoom session this week, indicating a serious level of evaluation. With no selection in the first round and their first pick not until 52nd overall, the Packers’ initial move is under immense scrutiny.
The significant hurdle, however, is Johnson’s escalating draft position. Renowned analyst Dane Brugler ranks Johnson as the draft’s third-best cornerback, behind only Terrion Arnold and Quinyon Mitchell and ahead of prospects projected as first-round picks. Brugler’s assessment states Johnson should compete for a starting role immediately, a perfect fit for Green Bay’s pressing need.
An NFL scout’s “given star factor is to the moon” comment underscores Johnson’s appeal. His collegiate production is staggering: allowing a mere 41.9% completion rate and a passer rating of 16.1 when targeted. He excels in both man and zone coverage, with fluid hips and elite mental processing, making him a versatile fit for new defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley’s scheme.
The critical question now is whether Johnson will even be available when the Packers are on the clock. Analysts suggest if he slips into the 40s, Green Bay should aggressively trade up to secure him. The team may need to package later picks or even a player to leapfrog competitors and land their top target.
This aligns with broader league expectations of a trade-heavy draft, particularly for teams seeking to acquire premium talent on Day Two. With later-round depth considered weak, many clubs are aiming to stockpile picks in Rounds 2 and 3, a market dynamic that could work in Green Bay’s favor if they decide to move.
Johnson is not without his questions. At 193 pounds, he can be outmuscled by bigger receivers in contested-catch situations. His competition level in the Mountain West Conference also raises justifiable questions about how his skills will translate against elite NFL athletes.
If a move for Johnson proves impossible, the Packers must pivot. Other potential targets include South Carolina’s Marcellas Dial, but the clear emphasis from the scouting department appears to be on finding an immediate starter on the boundary, not another slot cornerback.
Meanwhile, NFC North rivals are also solidifying plans. The Chicago Bears, per the same report, are expected to address their defensive line with the selection of Missouri’s Darius Robinson. The Detroit Lions, with only two picks in the top 115, are predicted to target a tackle and an edge rusher with their early selections.
The Minnesota Vikings’ direction appears most defined, with the team heavily linked to Minnesota safety Tyler Nubin as the direct successor to the legendary Harrison Smith. This need is considered acute, solidifying Nubin as a likely first-round target in Minneapolis.
For Packers General Manager Brian Gutekunst, the next fortnight will be defined by contingency planning. The fervent internal support for Chris Johnson is a powerful signal of intent. Securing him, however, will likely require proactive aggression, turning their first selection of the 2025 draft into a potential franchise cornerstone or a missed opportunity that defines their offseason.
Source: YouTube
A major development is sending excitement — and questions — across the entire fanbase.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HzzkbwlXhes
