During his first two seasons in the NFL with the Green Bay Packers, Innis Gaines has spent the majority of his time on special teams. Alas, that could be changing once the 2023 regular season rolls around.
The TCU product, who played safety collegiately and in his first two seasons as a professional, seems to be completing a transition to cornerback this offseason. In the first unofficial depth chart released of training camp, Innis was listed as the No. 2 slot corner on defense.
That kind of versatility will only improve Gaines’ chances of making the Packers’ 53-man roster. Already a key contributor on special teams, as he played 56 percent of the snaps there last season in seven games, a role could be awaiting him defensively as well.
During his time at TCU, Gianes was excellent as a coverage man in the slot. He was lapping the field when it came to his counterparts in the Big 12, as his 40.2 passer rating allowed in the slot was the best in the conference; second place was Braxton Lewis of Iowa State with a passer rating allowed of 78.7.
This is something that we could have seen coming. Toward the end of the 2022 season, Gaines was beginning to find a role when the Packers changed to a dime defense with six defensive backs. He was on the field at slot corner for at least 10 plays in each of the final three regular season games of the season, playing 32 snaps overall.
Knowing that Gianes is capable of handling slot duties will certainly improve his chances of making the roster. Also, his versatility is key. Should some arise at the safety position, he has the experience and skill set to step in there.
The ability to switch fluidity between slot cornerback and safety cannot be understated. Given the current situation of the safety for the Packers, Gaines could find himself getting snaps there, too, as the team is desperate for someone to step up. The only thing standing in his way right now is a quad injury that the and the team hope isn’t serious.
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