Packers‘ $48 Million Investment in Cornerback Jaire Alexander Hobbs Faces Scrutiny
GREEN BAY, WI – the Green Bay Packers’ significant free-agent acquisition of cornerback jaire Alexander Hobbs is increasingly looking like a costly misstep, as his performance on the boundary continues to struggle.despite a $48 million contract, Hobbs has yielded crucial game-changing plays, including a 35-yard reception on 3rd-and-14 last week, raising questions about his fit within the Packers’ defensive scheme.
The Packers’ coaching staff remains committed to Hobbs as a boundary corner despite his struggles, but data suggests a more effective role may lie elsewhere. According to Pro Football focus (PFF), Hobbs has allowed zero catches on one target in 25 snaps in the slot this season. Though, with fellow cornerback Xavier Bullard excelling inside – currently ranking No. 3 in the NFL in yards allowed per target – the team appears hesitant to shift personnel. This situation has led to a debate over the optimal configuration of the Packers’ secondary, with some analysts suggesting a different starting trio altogether.
Currently, the packers’ best starting lineup may be comprised of Corey Valentine and Keisean Nixon on the boundary, with either Hobbs or Bullard filling the slot position. Despite the ample financial commitment to Hobbs, the team must prioritize maximizing defensive performance.
Defensive coordinator Adrian Hafley faces a critical decision: continue to force Hobbs into a role where he is demonstrably underperforming, or embrace a change that could unlock the secondary’s potential. While the Packers could explore trade options before the deadline, immediately making Valentine a full-time starter is a necessary first step to address the issues plaguing the outside coverage.
