Packers finally find a way to create real competition at a key position that's loudly become their biggest challenge

When a player signs a big deal in free agency, it's natural that he will have at least the first opportunity to prove himself. But it doesn't secure everything. Nate Hobbs got a four-year, $48 million contract from the Green Bay Packers back in March, so he had the right for the first shot.

However, the advantage is now over. After five games as a starter on the outside, Hobbs had a truly underwhelming game against the Arizona Cardinals. Despite head coach Matt LaFleur and defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley both defending him last week, the free agent addition was benched against the Pittsburgh Steelers, and the alternative was in fact much better.

Carrington Valentine proves his value

Against the Steelers, the Packers started former seventh-round pick Carrington Valentine over Hobbs. More than ability, style of play matters. While Hobbs is mostly a slot corner, Valentine is actually a natural boundary piece.

Valentine ended up playing more snaps (62) than any other corner, even Keisean Nixon (61), while Hobbs was on the field for only four defensive plays.

It wasn't a perfect game by any means for the third-year player, who allowed three catches and a touchdown in five targets, but also prevented separation at a much better level and showed competitiveness throughout his 44 pass coverage snaps — ultimately, that's why he was targeted only five times. He had a big end-zone pass breakup versus DK Metcalf.