Green Bay Packers Sign Undrafted Free Agent: A Game-Changer in the Making
The Green Bay Packers recently made headlines by signing undrafted free agent Johnathan Baldwin, a cornerback from UNLV. With higher guaranteed money than Tulane’s seventh-round pick, Micah Robinson, the Packers have shown they might have struck gold in this under-the-radar signing.
The Underdog Story of Johnathan Baldwin
Why Did He Go Undrafted?
Despite a highly competitive bidding war among teams for Baldwin’s services, he went undrafted. Many analysts speculate this was due to his pre-draft testing results. Standing at 5-foot-11 5/8 and running a 40-yard dash in 4.50 seconds, he posted a Relative Athletic Score of 5.16.
Could this have clouded team evaluations?
“I don’t know. But, I’ll tell you what, Green Bay got it right,” says Akeem Davis, Baldwin’s cornerbacks coach at UNLV. “He’s going to make a splash. He’s going to be a four-core guy on special teams immediately, and work his way up the depth chart."
Skills That Matter: What to Expect from Baldwin
Versatile Playmaker
Baldwin initially started at safety before transitioning to the slot to maximize defensive performance for the Rebels. This strategic move paid off, leading to career highs of three interceptions, 13 passes defended, and nine tackles for loss.
- According to Pro Football Focus, Baldwin ranked eighth in snaps per reception and 14th in yards allowed per snap among 48 draft-eligible defensive backs. His numbers reflect not just potential but proven capability.
High Football IQ
Akeem Davis describes Baldwin as possessing “very high football intelligence.”
“He’s savvy, a good blitzer, and strong," Davis adds. “He can cover and has excellent ball skills.”
This blend of instincts and athleticism makes Baldwin a highly adaptable piece in the Packers’ defensive scheme.
The NFL Transition: Getting Ready for Game Day
An All-In Commitment
Baldwin is already known for his infectious personality and studious approach to training.
“He will be one of the first guys in the building and one of the last to leave," says Davis. “He watches just as much film as we do, which will bode well for his transition into the professional realm.”
The Future: Why Baldwin Will Be a Valuable Asset
A Locker Room Leader
Davis emphasizes that Baldwin’s intelligence and tenacity will anchor him in Green Bay.
“He’s a ‘glue guy’ in the locker room. He’s smart and has good football intelligence,” Davis explains. “He’s going to be all gas and no brakes. That’s the Green Bay culture.”
The Impact of Hard Work
There’s something intrinsically valuable about players who put in the effort and remain humble. Baldwin’s work ethic and blue-collar mentality mean that he will not only contribute on the field but create a positive atmosphere in the locker room.
Akeem Davis is confident that “it’s going to be hard for them to get rid of him because of all the value he’s going to add.”
Final Thoughts: A Smart Investment for the Packers
The Packers have made a significant move by investing in Johnathan Baldwin, a player who has the potential to outshine his undrafted status. With a solid skill set, a strong work ethic, and a commitment to continual improvement, he stands poised to become an integral part of the Packers’ defense.
As the NFL season approaches, keep an eye on Baldwin—he just might be the game-changer Green Bay has been waiting for.
