Packers Face Cornerback Challenges After Douglas Trade, Rely on Inexperienced Valentine and Ballentine
Struggling Packers seek to rebound from four-game losing streak with unproven cornerbacks Valentine and Ballentine stepping up against Rams' formidable receiving duo of Kupp and Nacua.
- The trade of veteran cornerback Rasul Douglas to the Buffalo Bills leaves the Green Bay Packers relying on inexperienced cornerbacks Carrington Valentine and Corey Ballentine. Douglas had intercepted 10 passes since signing with Green Bay in October 2021.
- The Packers' cornerback issues come as the team faces a four-game losing streak and prepares to go up against the formidable receiving duo of Cooper Kupp and rookie Puka Nacua from the Los Angeles Rams.
- Eric Stokes, the Packers' 2021 first-round draft pick, remains on injured reserve due to a hamstring injury, further exacerbating the team's cornerback challenges. His absence means the Packers need bigger contributions from Valentine and Ballentine.
- Despite the team's struggles, Jaire Alexander, a second-team pick in last year's All-Pro balloting, expresses confidence in Valentine and Ballentine: 'Those are the next guys up. Those are the next guys in line and both of them have some experience playing.'
- Valentine, who has impressed the Packers during the preseason, and Ballentine, who has played four games this season, now have significant opportunities to step up and help the team rebound.