The Green Bay Packers added not one, but two All-Rookie talents to their defense in the 2024 NFL Draft, according to a new report.
With Jordan Love poised for a breakout season, Green Bay’s offense is expected to be a major problem for NFL defenses this year. It’s the Packers’ defense, however, that still has some lingering questions, particularly in the secondary.
Green Bay will remain vigilant on the free-agent market for defensive reinforcements. At the same time, the Packers’ secondary and overall defense may require fewer additions than assumed, especially if rookie safety Javon Bullard and rookie linebacker Edgerrin Cooper make immediate contributions.
In a report released Wednesday, Chad Reuter, draft analyst for NFL.com, projected that Bullard and Cooper will not only immediately improve Green Bay’s defense but make the NFL Defensive All-Rookie Team in the process.
"Bullard can make plays on the ball and secure open-field tackles whether he’s lined up deep or inside the box,” Reuter said. “Defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley will have the flexibility to play single-high or two-deep coverage. Bullard showed a proclivity for making big plays in big games during his Georgia career. If he does the same thing this fall, it should lead to a successful Packers campaign and a spot for him on the All-Rookie Team.”
Reuter was equally as adamant about Cooper’s “perfect situation” in Green Bay. “His closing speed and toughness will force offenses to account for him on every play. He and 2022 first-round pick Quay Walker will be the primary linebackers in new defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley's scheme, working inside and outside depending on the formation. Cooper should put up solid numbers across the board as a rookie, picking off a pass or two, accumulating a few sacks on blitzes and finishing first or second on the team in tackles."
If both Bullard and Cooper can produce at the level projected by Reuter, Green Bay’s defense could be one of the NFL’s surprises.
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