Copyright yardbarker
After a quiet NFL trade deadline, the Green Bay Packers may be turning to the free-agent market to address their needs in the secondary. According to a report from The Athletic’s Matt Schneidman, the Packers are “looking into the possibility” of signing former Los Angeles Chargers cornerback Asante Samuel Jr. Green Bay Packers: A Proven Talent Hits the Market Samuel, a 2021 second-round pick, became a free agent after a recent release from the Chargers. He was a productive starter for three seasons, recording six interceptions and 35 pass breakups in 43 games. However, his 2024 season was derailed by shoulder and neck injuries that ultimately led to spinal fusion surgery in April. Now recently cleared for football activities, the 26-year-old represents a high-upside option for any team in need of cornerback help. His availability presents an intriguing opportunity for the Packers to add a player with a proven track record of creating turnovers. Addressing a Thin Cornerback Room The Packers’ interest in Samuel comes at a time when their cornerback depth is being severely tested. The secondary has been a point of concern for much of the season, and the situation grew worse after veteran signing Nate Hobbs suffered a sprained MCL in the recent loss to the Carolina Panthers. Hobbs is expected to miss at least the next two games, leaving an already shaky unit even thinner. Outside of starter Keisean Nixon and promising rookie Carrington Valentine, the Packers have limited experienced depth. The team has been relying on converted wide receiver Bo Melton for reserve roles. For a team leading the NFC North and aiming for a deep playoff run, this lack of depth is a significant vulnerability. A Potential High-Reward Signing If healthy, Asante Samuel Jr. could be an immediate impact player for Green Bay. His ball-hawking skills and starting experience would provide a significant upgrade and much-needed stability to the cornerback position. He fits the profile of a player who can step in and compete for meaningful snaps right away. The primary question will be his health following a major surgical procedure. The Packers will certainly conduct a thorough medical evaluation before any deal is made. However, if he can return to the form he showed early in his career, signing Samuel could be a low-risk, high-reward move that shores up a critical defensive weakness as Green Bay pushes toward the postseason.
