At the University of Texas Pro Day, Malik Muhammad made a statement that was hard to ignore. The Texas Longhorns cornerback, previously considered undersized by some NFL scouts, notably Green Bay Packers GM Brian Gutekunst, showed up with a new build. Muhammad tipped the scales at 190 pounds, up from 182 at the NFL Combine, proving he's been putting in the work.
This transformation is likely to catch the eye of NFL teams, especially those concerned about his durability. It could very well place him on the Packers' radar for their No. 52 or No. 84 draft picks. But competition is fierce, with teams like the Washington Commanders, San Francisco 49ers, and others potentially in the mix.
Muhammad's journey hasn't been without its challenges. In 2025, under the guidance of Longhorns defensive coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski and former defensive passing game coordinator Duane Akina, Muhammad faced increased man coverage responsibilities. This experience, though it led to some growing pains, has made him a versatile and adaptable player.
One of Muhammad's standout qualities is his length as a cornerback, which gives him an edge in pass deflections. His ball skills and strong hands are assets that any team would value.
As for the Packers, they find themselves in a bit of a dilemma. With Nate Hobbs released after an unremarkable, injury-ridden season, there's a clear need for depth in the cornerback position. Keisean Nixon, Carrington Valentine, and Benjamin St-Juste need more competition to elevate the team's secondary.
Yet, Green Bay also has a gap to fill at the edge position, having only added Arron Mosby. With no first-round pick, their second-round choice becomes critical. If they pass on Muhammad, it might signal a different direction for their draft strategy.
The Packers' roster changes are likely limited to trades at this point, with free agency mostly wrapped up. So, the decision at No. 52 overall is pivotal.
Muhammad's commitment to improving his physicality shows he's ready to meet challenges head-on. The question remains: will the Packers prioritize his potential to bolster their defense?