The Green Bay Packers have shown some early signs of improvement during their 2026 training camp, particularly in the cornerback group. Following the decline after Jaire Alexander’s injury in 2023, the team bolstered its secondary by signing free agent Benjamin St-Juste and drafting Brandon Cisse in the second round. Both players are impressing in camp with St-Juste showcasing ideal size and versatility, including a pick-six against backup QB Tyrod Taylor. Cisse, still just turned 21, has also demonstrated readiness to contribute, creating healthy competition that has pushed incumbent Carrington Valentine to elevate his game.

One major challenge for the Packers remains their ability to generate a pass rush, especially with star defensive end Micah Parsons expected to miss at least the first month of the season. The current defensive ends, Lukas Van Ness and Barryn Sorrell, have shown limited production so far, and depth options like Collin Oliver and rookie Dani Dennis-Sutton are either injured or inexperienced. The team will rely on interior pressure from Devonte Wyatt and Javon Hargrave, plus blitzes from linebackers such as Edgerrin Cooper and Zaire Franklin, forcing defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon to innovate on scheme to compensate.

Depth issues are becoming a concern for Green Bay after significant free agent departures and a sparse 2026 draft class of only six picks. While the top wide receivers—Christian Watson, Matthew Golden, and Jayden Reed—show promise, other offensive backups, including the backup quarterback spot filled by Tyrod Taylor, tight ends, running backs, and offensive line reserves, lack proven talent. With an injury-prone history that has placed them near the top of the league in missed games, the Packers' limited depth could be problematic if injuries hit again.

On a positive note, Matthew Golden, last year’s first-round pick, is off to a strong start at camp, aiming to break out after a quiet rookie season. Known for his speed and route-running ability, Golden has confidence in his ability to perform when called upon. Meanwhile, the kicker competition has narrowed to rookie Trey Smack, whose evaluation was delayed due to a long snapper injury but is expected to progress with the recent signing of veteran Cal Adomitis. General manager Brian Gutekunst remains optimistic about Smack’s potential to become a reliable option for the Packers.