3 Packers starters fighting for their job in training camp

1. Kevin King, CB

The Packers have a certified, shutdown cornerback in Jaire Alexander. The real question is who will start on the opposite side of the field in Green Bay’s secondary. That spot is filled by Kevin King, well for now at least.

King gained notoriety this past season for his showing in the NFC Championship Game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Quarterback Tom Brady targeted King numerous times in the game, including Scotty Miller’s touchdown reception just before halftime. Even with his poor showing, the Packers chose to bring King back on a one-year, $5 million deal this offseason. That does not mean his job is safe.

In the first-round of the NFL Draft, Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst chose again to pass on selecting an offensive position player. Instead, he chose to address the secondary by drafting Georgia cornerback Eric Stokes. In his three seasons with the Bulldogs, Stokes recorded 78 total tackles (two for loss), one sack, nine passes defensed and four interceptions (all in junior season).

While it is far from ideal to start a rookie cornerback for the season and expect immediate results, a strong training camp could change the coaching staff’s mind. If Stokes shows out and King does not impress, expect Stokes to propel up the depth chart.