Packers activating rookie CB is worrisome sign with Nate Hobbs still questionable on Week 1 injury report 1 Sep 9, 2023; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks running back Dakereon Joyner (5) is brought down by Furman Paladins cornerback Micah Robinson (14) during the first quarter at Williams-Brice Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-USA TODAY Sports

Packers activating rookie CB is worrisome sign with Nate Hobbs still questionable on Week 1 injury report

Originally posted on WI Sports Heroics | By John Sbisa | Last updated Sep 6, 2025 7:13 PM ET

Packers cornerback Nate Hobbs is still ramping up from the knee surgery he underwent a month ago. After recording a DNP in Wedneday’s practice, he was listed as a limited participant each of the past two days. Ahead of Sunday’s clash with the Lions, he retains a questionable tag on the injury report, leaving his status uncertain.

That the Packers elevated a practice squad rookie this afternoon is not a great sign for Hobbs. In the case that he can’t go, seventh-round draft pick Micah Robinson could very well see his first NFL snaps.

Packers call on rookie for insurance while Hobbs deals with knee uncertainty

With their penultimate pick of the 2025 draft, the Packers chose Robinson 237th overall out of Tulane. The 6-foot, 184-pound CB played 14 games last season. Robinson picked off two passes for the Green Wave defense, returning one for a score.

Fresh off the practice squad, he could suit up as CB4 if Hobbs has to miss tomorrow’s game. In that case Carrington Valentine would likely start as CB2 alongside Keisean Nixon, with Bo Melton and Robinson as reserves. Hobbs putting on the pads would be the best case scenario, but the Packers also must be wary of rushing him back too soon.

Having surgery when he did was supposed to ensure full health for the regular season and avoid nagging injuries. Needlessly aggravating his knee now would contradict that entire premise.

Hobbs missing the game would open up a much larger role for Melton, converted from receiver to cornerback during spring and summer camp. If Hobbs plays he will probably be less than 100%, a further consideration going up against a Lions group of pass catchers led by Amon-Ra St. Brown (115 REC, 1263 YDS, 12 TDs last season).

Packers' Bo Melton's Key Traits Helping Power Position Change 1 Green Bay Packers cornerbacks Bo Melton (16) and Micah Robinson (26) run through a drill during practice on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, at Ray Nitschke Field in Ashwaubenon, Wis.Tork Mason/USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin

A strong pass rush featuring Micah Parsons, Rashan Gary, and Edgerrin Cooper is one thing the Packers can lean on to help out a weakened secondary. Keep the passer uncomfortable and off balance, force quick throws, and the cornerbacks will have an easier time handing their receiver matchups.

This article first appeared on WI Sports Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

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