Packers deliver big roster cutdown surprise, and it involves a 2026 draft pick
Green Bay decided to waive sixth-round cornerback Domani Jackson after a brutal preseason.
The Green Bay Packers delivered their first major surprise of roster cutdown day by waiving cornerback Domani Jackson. The 2026 sixth-round pick out of Alabama played poorly across two preseason games, and the Packers made their decision based on performance rather than draft pedigree.
Poor preseason showing
Jackson underwent core muscle surgery during the offseason, which cost him significant time in training camp and the first preseason game. He returned to play the final two exhibition games against the Denver Broncos and Arizona Cardinals, but struggled in both appearances.
According to PFF, Jackson earned a 28.9 overall grade, including a 27.7 coverage grade and a 25.5 tackling grade. His performance against Arizona in Week 3 of the preseason was particularly rough, as he allowed a 156.3 passer rating when targeted. He played 44 defensive snaps during the preseason, 43 as an outside corner and one in the box.
A break from the norm
The decision is surprising because the Packers typically give their draft picks at least one year on the roster, even late-round selections. But his preseason tape was not enough for the Alabama product to secure a spot on the initial 53-man roster.
Green Bay could consider bringing Jackson back on the practice squad if he clears waivers, but that remains uncertain.
Jackson is not the only defensive back the Packers parted with during cutdowns. Green Bay also waived cornerbacks Shemar Bartholomew, MJ Devonshire, and Jaylin Simpson, along with safeties Tra Fluellen and Mark Perry. The Packers are still finalizing their initial 53-man roster, and more moves could follow as the team shapes its secondary heading into the regular season.
