25-Year-Old Slot Cornerback Signs with the Packers

Cornerback Nate Hobbs was a significant part of the Las Vegas Raiders' defense, entering the free-agent market for the first time in his young career. The Raiders had a disappointing 4-13 season, and the defense did not perform as well as many expected last season. After playing for several years with the Raiders, the 25-year-old Hobbs has moved on. Hobbs has signed a four-year deal for $48 million with the Packers.

This past season, Hobbs played in a career-high 16 games and made nine starts. He compiled 74 tackles and one interception. Hobbs also defended three passes and forced a fumble. The slot cornerback is a capable blitzer, compiling one sack and four quarterback hits. According to Pro Football Reference, Hobbs was targeted 51 times this past season, allowing 33 receptions and a 64.7 percent completion rate for 332 yards and two touchdowns. The quarterback's throwing his way had an 87.2 rating.

Hobbs’ best season in the NFL came in 2023. It was his second season when he compiled 86 tackles, six tackles for loss, one interception, and seven passes defended. In the silver and black season, Hobbs had 281 tackles, 81 for loss, four interceptions, and 19 passes defended. Those are solid numbers for a slot corner. Hobbs was a huge asset for the Raiders but he had chosen to move on.

Hobbs, a promising player, was selected from Illinois in the fifth round as the 167th overall pick of the 2021 NFL Draft. He played outside corner in college, transitioned to the inside, and quickly established himself as a capable and productive slot defender. Despite having few career interceptions, Hobbs has proven to be sticky in coverage, an aggressive run defender, and, more importantly, a strong tackler. With his potential, Hobbs will be a key addition to the Packers’ defense and help elevate their defense to the next level.