Carrington Valentine fitting the 'standard' on Packers defense
Seventh-round draft picks really need to impress in order to make an NFL roster. Especially when they're in an already-crowded position group like the Green Bay Packers' cornerback room.That's exactly what rookie corner Carrington Valentine has done since training camp began. The former Kentucky Wildcat has made play after play over the last few weeks, […]
Seventh-round draft picks really need to impress in order to make an NFL roster. Especially when they're in an already-crowded position group like the Green Bay Packers' cornerback room.
That's exactly what rookie corner Carrington Valentine has done since training camp began. The former Kentucky Wildcat has made play after play over the last few weeks, including an impressive interception in Monday's practice. Per reports, Valentine stepped in front of a Jordan Love pass and took it the house for a would-be 80-yard pick-six.
Valentine finished his collegiate career with just one interception, but he's already displayed an ability to make plays on the ball. That's obviously huge for a secondary that boasts Jaire Alexander and Rasul Douglas, who combined for the second-most interceptions by a defensive back duo (9) in 2022.
"[It's] two different things, you know," Valentine continued, "one thing is, picks get you paid here and PBUs in college, you know, can take you far but picks are the thing and that's the standard. So, that's my standard. So, PBUs are great, but picks are amazing."
The Packers currently have their top-4 corners set in Alexander, Douglas, Keisean Nixon, and Eric Stokes (once he comes off PUP). Beyond that, it's wide-open battle for what will probably be two more jobs. So, it's easy to see why Valentine's success matters.
"Even though I'm taking reps with the ones, I still gotta be humble about it," Valentine told reporters. "But, you know, my confidence [from] being out there with those guys and making plays against the guys going into Year 2 or 3 and stuff like that, and seeing how you fare against them, – it really helps a young guy like me…
"… It really helps your confidence, like, 'Oh, yeah, I really do belong here' and stuff like that."
The cornerback room is definitely the strength of the defense – and probably even the team. If Valentine can keep up his play, the team will be nearly set on the outside. Assuming Stokes' eventual return to health, of course.
It'll be fun to see whether or not Valentine continues his reign of terror against the New England Patriots when the two teams meet for joint practices and a preseason game later in the week. If he does then it's safe to say Valentine is a lock for the final roster, at that point.
One thing's for sure, though: He's going to be ready for it.
"It's really exciting, just going out there and, you know, being able to compete on the big stage and showing your talents."
Featured image via Seeger Gray/USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin
