The Green Bay Packers are gearing up for a pivotal week as the NFL scouting combine unfolds in Indianapolis. While this event typically signals the start of draft season, it's also a crucial time for teams to engage in preliminary talks with agents, laying the groundwork for free agency.
Although official contract negotiations can't begin until March 9, these early discussions are especially vital for the Packers as they aim to equip new defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon with the right personnel. A key focus for Gannon will be enhancing the cornerback position to fit his scheme, which emphasizes quarters coverage.
In quarters coverage, cornerbacks often find themselves in off coverage, requiring them to be fast and agile. As Justus Mosqueda from Acme Packing Company points out, these corners need to excel in zone coverage, effectively playing a hybrid of man coverage from a slight distance. This demands speed, as receivers have the opportunity to gain momentum before the cornerbacks engage.
Enter Riq Woolen, a standout candidate for the Packers' free-agent wishlist. Woolen's physical attributes are hard to ignore-standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 205 pounds, he ranks in the 90th percentile for cornerback prospects since 1987. His blazing 4.26-second 40-yard dash at the 2022 NFL scouting combine places him in the 99th percentile for speed.
Woolen's performance metrics are intriguing. Last season, he allowed 46 catches for 482 yards and six touchdowns, but he also recorded 10 pass breakups and an interception on 81 targets. Notably, he excelled in zone coverage, surrendering no touchdowns and allowing only 19 catches for 217 yards on 38 targets, with six breakups and an interception.
While his man coverage stats show room for improvement, with eight completions for 67 yards and three touchdowns allowed on 21 targets, his overall 86.7 passer rating allowed is respectable. This could provide the Packers with much-needed consistency on the outside.
The Packers faced challenges at cornerback last season, with Keisean Nixon and Carrington Valentine struggling, particularly in zone coverage. Nixon's 108.4 passer rating and Valentine's 113.8 rating when targeted in zone snaps highlight the need for upgrades.
With Nixon and potentially Nate Hobbs on the chopping block, securing top-tier corners is a priority. While Jacksonville Jaguars' Greg Newsome is a viable option due to his zone coverage prowess, Woolen's elite athleticism makes him an ideal target.
The Seahawks, however, won't let Woolen go easily, as they juggle multiple free agents and contract extensions. The Packers, currently $1.5 million over the salary cap, will need to maneuver financially to make room for Woolen. Yet, if Gannon can harness Woolen's talents effectively, this pursuit could be a game-changer for Green Bay's defense, making it a development to watch closely in the coming weeks.