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Packers second-round pick called underrated sleeper to watch in 2025

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Felipe Reis Aceti | Last updated Jun 18, 2025 4:20 PM ET

The Green Bay Packers put together a solid season in 2024, winning 11 games and reaching the playoffs for the second year in a row under quarterback Jordan Love. However, their 0-6 record against the Philadelphia Eagles, Detroit Lions and Minnesota Vikings — three of the NFC’s top teams — highlighted a clear gap. The Packers proved capable of handling weaker and average opponents, but they consistently came up short when matched against elite competition.

Green Bay was a talented team, but much of the roster had yet to reach its full potential. That is understandable, given Matt LaFleur's squad was the NFL’s youngest team for the second straight year. While it is a bonus when young players contribute early, there is a natural learning curve for most rookies and second-year players as they adjust to the speed and complexity of the pro game.

As the Packers head into 2025, it is reasonable to expect many players to take the next step in their development. One of those players is Javon Bullard, a former second-round pick who should play a significant role in Jeff Hafley’s defense. Clutch Sports' Enzo Flojo even named him an underrated sleeper on the team, highlighting the challenges he faced during his rookie year.

"Packers fans were understandably excited when Green Bay double-dipped at safety in the 2024 draft. But by the end of the season, fourth-rounder Evan Williams appeared to have outplayed second-rounder Javon Bullard," Flojo wrote. "On paper, the gap was wide. Williams allowed a passer rating of just 77.8 when targeted. Meanwhile, Bullard gave up a staggering 120.6.

"However, that surface-level comparison leaves out crucial context. Bullard was asked to play multiple roles — slot corner, box safety and deep safety — all while adjusting to the speed and complexity of NFL offenses," he added. "That’s an enormous task for any rookie. It’s no surprise he looked overextended at times. Still, that trial by fire could pay dividends in 2025. With more defined responsibilities and another offseason to digest the playbook, Bullard is positioned to make a significant Year 2 leap.

Flojo also mentioned that Bullard’s versatility and physicality are the biggest strengths of his game and that the best way for Green Bay to maximize his potential is by letting him settle into one role.

"What Bullard brings to the table is versatility and physicality. He plays downhill with confidence and flashes the range to track the ball in space," he wrote. "Bullard has the traits to thrive—if he’s not asked to do too much, too soon."

The former Bulldog had a peculiar rookie year. He was one of only five defensive backs to log at least 250 snaps both in the slot and at free safety — and the first rookie to do so since 2007. Jeff Hafley is a big fan of Bullard, and while he may not have a guaranteed starting spot entering 2025, he should remain heavily featured in the Packers secondary.

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

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