The Green Bay Packers could still use reinforcements to shore up the back end of their defense. With uncertainty surrounding Jaire Alexander's future, help could be on the way in the latest mock draft from NFL Network's Daniel Jeremiah.
Jeremiah has the Packers selecting Kentucky Wildcats cornerback Maxwell Hairston with the 23rd overall pick, signaling a potential shift in Green Bay's secondary. Could Hairston be the answer the Packers need at cornerback?
Jeremiah's Justification for the Pick
In his latest mock draft, Jeremiah explained his reasoning behind the selection:
"It's not clear if Jaire Alexander has a long-term future in Green Bay, so the Packers turn to the highly dynamic Hairston at cornerback."
This pick aligns with recent reports from ESPN's Rob Demovsky, who noted that the Packers are actively exploring trade options for Alexander. While the team has not approached him about a pay cut, they also would not accept one, further fueling speculation that his departure is imminent.
If Alexander is on his way out, the Packers would have a clear need at cornerback, making Hairston an appealing choice.
Hairston's Athletic Profile and College Production
Hairston showcased his elite athleticism at the NFL Scouting Combine, running an eye-popping 4.28-second 40-yard dash and recording a 39.5-inch vertical jump. His speed alone would make him one of the fastest players on Green Bay's roster.
During his collegiate career at Kentucky, Hairston played in 32 games and accumulated 89 tackles, six interceptions, 10 pass breakups, and three forced fumbles. His ability to generate turnovers and make plays on the ball stands out as a major asset for an NFL secondary.
However, one potential concern is his size. At the combine, Hairston weighed in at just 183 pounds-historically below Green Bay's preferred weight threshold for cornerbacks. Since 2006, the Packers have drafted only one cornerback under 192 pounds.
How Hairston Fits in Green Bay
Despite concerns over his size, Hairston's speed and ball skills make him a compelling option for the Packers. With Alexander potentially leaving, Green Bay's cornerback group could see an overhaul. Currently, Keisean Nixon, Carrington Valentine, and newly signed Nate Hobbs are expected to compete for playing time.
If drafted, Hairston would immediately push for snaps in an open competition. Even if he doesn't start right away, he would add depth and high-end athleticism to the Packers' secondary.
While there's no certainty in draft projections, Jeremiah's latest mock highlights an important need for Green Bay. If the Packers do part ways with Alexander, selecting a talented, speedy cornerback like Hairston could be a logical step toward securing their secondary for the future.
Copyright 2025 Athlon Sports. All rights reserved.
This story was originally published March 18, 2025 at 5:16 PM.
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