Packers continue adding new pieces on defense as they look to build better depth for 2025

The training camp is coming to an end for the Green Bay Packers, but that fact hasn't precluded general manager Brian Gutekunst from adding pieces in the last week of the 90-man roster. Over the past few days, the Packers have signed safety Jaylin Simpson and defensive tackle Devonte O'Malley, both players who had tried out in Green Bay earlier this month.

As corresponding moves, the Packers waived cornerback Garnett Hollis and waived/injured defensive tackle Keith Randolph—if he clears waivers, Randolph would revert back to the Packers' injured reserve, probably being released with an injury settlement.

Intriguing prospect

Jaylin Simpson was a fifth-round pick by the Indianapolis Colts last year. The team really liked Simpson's positional flexibility, with him spending time at both safety spots as well as slot cornerback at Auburn.

He had a very productive college career in arguably the best football conference: the SEC. During camp with the Colts in 2024, Simpson had some good moments as he spent time at both positions, but the uncertainty of where he would play long term actually hurt his chances of making the 53-man roster.

The Colts were happy to get him back on the practice squad, so they could continue to let him develop, but the New York Jets had other plans as they stole him away and gave him a spot on their 53-man roster. He is best fit playing as the deep safety, where he can use his coverage instincts and solid athleticism to make plays for a defense.

Rotational piece

The Packers had to cut Keith Randolph because of an injury, so O'Malley is a replacement piece to keep the depth for the final week of training camp and for the preseason finale against the Seattle Seahawks. A rookie out of Northern Illinois, the interior defensive lineman spent some time this offseason with the Tennessee Titans. In 2024, his final college season, he earned honorable mention All-America honors from Phil Steele's College Football and was a first-team All-MAC.