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Big-ticket free agent sends firm message with early Packers camp performance and strong choice of words about the defense

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Wendell Ferreira | Last updated Jul 25, 2025 10:26 AM ET

The second day of training camp was a strong period for the Green Bay Packers defense. The unit dominated the red-zone activity, and one of the best performers was cornerback Nate Hobbs. The biggest defensive addition of the offseason in Green Bay, Hobbs signed a four-year, $48 million contract in free agency. Now, he's ready to be a versatile piece in Jeff Hafley's scheme.

"I feel like [playing both boundary and nickel] will free up Haf on the playcalling, and I feel like it'll bring confidence to the guys wherever I'm at," Hobbs said in the locker room. "Whether I'm at nickel or corner, I'm gonna bring energy. I'm going to run to the ball and make plays."

Hobbs couldn't be more excited about the entire defense, and he had an eye-opening choice of words to describe what he has seen from his teammates.

"The rest of the defense, I think I'm running around with a pack of dogs. We run to the ball. We are trying to get the ball out," Hobbs added. "I knew when I was coming to Green Bay that was going to be a chance for me to change the trajectory of my career. I've had a good career, but I don't feel it's been great. And I feel like this has given me an opportunity to be great and just build bonds that'll last a lifetime."

A new reality

Hobbs played four seasons in Las Vegas with the Raiders, and now he's moved to the smallest NFL market in Green Bay. It's a different circumstance, but one that the defensive back is enjoying.

"It's like a family atmosphere, and it forces you to get in your playbook, get with your guys, build relationships," Hobbs stressed. "And the people of Green Bay are great people. They love the Packers and it's super supportive. So I appreciate that."

On the first few days of camp, the Packers have taken advantage of Hobbs' positional versatility. He had reps outside opposite Keisean Nixon, with safety Javon Bullard in the slot, but also inside, with Carrington Valentine in the boundary. His aggressiveness and willingness to be close to the ball are part of why the Packers signed him, and are evident from the jump.

"[Nate Hobbs] has done a great job. You know, you can really see the guy's a competitor, and that's why we loved him on tape," head coach Matt LaFleur detailed. "He's tough. He was primarily a nickel with the Raiders, and so it's been pretty cool to watch him come in, play a lot more outside corner, but also we know what he can do, if we want to put him inside."

After losing so many pieces in the secondary, including Jaire Alexander, the Packers need production out of their pieces. And Nate Hobbs is ready to justify the confidence the Packers have shown in him.

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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