The Green Bay Packers have been subject to widespread speculation regarding their potential to trade up in the opening round of the 2024 NFL Draft. With a substantial arsenal of five draft picks within the initial three rounds, the Packers possess considerable leverage if they opt to maneuver upwards. Yet, recent developments suggest a significant surge in the likelihood of such a move.
Recent events, particularly a specific pro day, have considerably bolstered the prospects of the Green Bay Packers trading up in the first round. Cooper DeJean, the highly touted Iowa defensive back, staged a private pro day for NFL scouts on Monday, showcasing his talents in impressive fashion. Despite having missed Iowa’s pro day, as well as prominent events like the NFL Scouting Combine and the Senior Bowl due to a leg injury, DeJean displayed remarkable athleticism during his recent assessment.
Standing at just over six feet tall and weighing 202 pounds, DeJean clocked an impressive 4.42 seconds in the 40-yard dash, as per the timing of an NFL scout. Additionally, he recorded a swift 10-yard split of 1.55 seconds and achieved a remarkable 38.5-inch vertical jump. DeJean’s versatility, capable of playing both cornerback and safety positions, has drawn comparisons to past versatile talents like Brian Branch. This performance seems to solidify his status as a top-25 pick in the forthcoming draft.
Considering the Green Bay Packers’ potential inclination towards trading up in the first round, DeJean emerges as a compelling candidate. His versatility as a defensive back offers significant value to the team, capable of bolstering both cornerback and safety positions. With established players like Jaire Alexander, Eric Stokes, and Keisean Nixon at cornerback, the addition of DeJean could provide critical reinforcement. Furthermore, considering Alexander’s injury history and uncertainties surrounding Stokes’ fifth-year rookie option, DeJean’s selection could prove instrumental not just for the present but also for the future of the Packers’ secondary.
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