Green Bay Packers: One CB Prospect Has ‘Plenty Of Fans’ Within The Organization
The Green Bay Packers are aggressively evaluating defensive talent ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft. With clear needs in their secondary, the front office is reportedly zeroing in on San Diego State cornerback Chris Johnson. Recent reports indicate that Green Bay’s scouting department holds a strong interest in securing the talented defender to bolster its defensive backfield.
Green Bay Packers Need Secondary Help
Green Bay enters the draft looking to reinforce a secondary that recently lost Nate Hobbs in free agency. Currently, the projected starting lineup features Keisean Nixon, Carrington Valentine, and Javon Bullard. While this trio provides a solid defensive foundation, the team severely lacks reliable depth and experience behind them.
The Green Bay Packers traded their first-round pick to Dallas to acquire Micah Parsons. Consequently, general manager Brian Gutekunst must find starting-caliber defensive backs during the second and third rounds of the draft. Selecting a highly capable player from the second tier of cornerbacks remains a top priority.
A Standout Collegiate Profile
Johnson presents a highly appealing profile based on his stellar 2025 college campaign. He operates with an aggressive, ball-hawking mindset, finishing his final year at San Diego State with four interceptions. He consistently disrupts passing lanes and attacks the football in the air. ESPN’s Matt Miller reported that many within the organization are high on Johnson.
“The Packers have been widely connected to the second tier of corners in this class since the Senior Bowl. Chris Johnson (San Diego State) has plenty of fans in the team’s scouting department, from what I’ve heard.“
Beyond his coverage skills, Johnson excels as a highly reliable tackler in open space. He recorded 54 tackle attempts last season, allowing only three offensive players to escape his grasp. This fundamental soundness makes him an ideal fit for a Green Bay defense that demands sure tackling on the perimeter.
Elite Combine Performance
Physical traits often separate good prospects from great ones. Johnson proved his elite athleticism at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis. He ran a blazing 4.40-second 40-yard dash, flashing the recovery speed necessary to succeed at the professional level.
This top-tier speed allows him to stick with fast receivers down the sideline and close passing windows effectively. His impressive athletic testing ultimately validated the dominant traits evaluators saw on his college game tape.
Securing the Defensive Future
The Packers hold several mid-round selections, including picks 52 and 84. This places them in an ideal position to draft Johnson. Given the heavy mutual interest, the front office might even consider trading up to ensure he lands in Green Bay. Adding a speedy, sure-tackling cornerback like Johnson would instantly upgrade the Packers’ defensive depth and provide a long-term starter for the secondary.
