Pre-Camp Breakdown: Introducing the Packers Defensive Backs

I am making the bold prediction that by the time all is said and done in training camp and by the end of the preseason games, the Green Bay Packers will keep 6 cornerbacks and 4 safeties.

Cornerbacks: the Green Bay Packers will keep 6 players on the roster this year.

Obviously there are 3 Green Bay Packers corners with NFL playing experience.  They are Sam Shields, Casey Hayward, and Micah Hyde.  Therefore, without a doubt these players are effectively guaranteed roster spots.

#37 Sam Shields

 Sam Shields has proven beyond a shadow of a doubt that he can get the job done on the corner.  His production has been steady and he is a reliable tackler.  He defends the pass very well on the boundary.  He will earn Pro-Bowl honors this year.

#29 Casey Hayward

Casey Hayward is starting material and will prove so during the preseason.  He had 6 picks and a fumble recovery during his rookie season.  Last year he was tied with Tramon Williams with most INT’s on the team with 3, but played fewer snaps than Williams.  He is the real deal when healthy.

#33 Micah Hyde

Micah Hyde is Mr. Versatile.  He is best suited in the slot, but can play corner and safety too.  In addition, he has returned punts for the Packers.  I’d hate to see the Packers lose this guy due to injury.  He’s been relatively healthy so far.

#23 Damarious Randall

First and second round picks Damarious Randall and Quinten Rollins are also guaranteed roster spots.  I’m predicting Damarious Randall will back up Casey Hayward and Quinten Rollins will back up Micah Hyde in the slot to begin the season.  Both rookies will see their playing time increase as the season wears on into December.

#24 Quinten Rollins

Even though the Packers typically keep only five cornerbacks, I believe the team will keep six CB’s this year.  That lucky player will be #36 Ladarius Gunter.  Gunter will prove his worth during the preseason.  He will show Packer Nation that he can defend the pass and tackle the ball carrier coming around the end.  He will also demonstrate excellent special team skills, which wins him the roster spot.

#36 Ladarius Gunter

Safeties: The Green Bay Packers will keep 4 players on the roster this year.

Ha Ha Clinton-Dix and Morgan Burnett have entrenched themselves as the starting safeties in Dom Capers' defense, guaranteeing roster spots for each.  Both are excellent safeties and Pro-Bowl caliber players.  I’m predicting that Ha-Ha has a big year and earns Pro-Bowl honors.  Morgan’s production will not be far behind.

#42 Morgan Burnett and #21 Ha-Ha Clinton-Dix

The Packers resigned Sean Richardson, meaning he'll also make the cut.  He is a good special team player and has proven in the past that he can get the job done at safety when called upon by Capers. 

#28 Sean Richardson

Even though Hyde or Damarious Randall could play the position, the Packers will keep 4 true safeties in case of injury.  Chris Banjo's excellent play on special teams should be enough to keep him in Green Bay.

#32 Chris Banjo

That concludes the team breakdown.  First training camp practice is July 30th.  Players report to the facility on July 29.  #GoPackGo