After reviewing the 2024 season, the number one take away is the overall defensive improvement. This boost primarily stems from DC Jeff Hafley but it could not have happened without two pleasant surprises from the 2024 Packers rookie class. LB Edgerrin Cooper and S Evan Williams will gear up for their second NFL season and second season under coach Hafley. A second year jump from these two, after an already impressive rookie campaign, could take the Packers defense to new heights.
The Packers have found a diamond in the rough with LB Edgerrin Cooper. To start the season, the Packers were cautious with his playing time but as he got on the field more, it was evident that he needed to be a full-time player. Cooper’s athleticism, especially his speed and quickness, is off the charts for a linebacker and it showed. Edge won the NFC Defensive Rookie of the Week twice and was named the NFC Defensive Rookie of the Month for December/January as well.
Edgerrin Cooper was not the only Packers rookie to shine in 2024. Fifth Round Pick Safety Evan Williams provided a key level of stability in the Packers secondary. Williams, along with Cooper, battled a few injuries throughout the season. It was clear that the Packers secondary was a bit more discombobulated without Williams on the field. His top asset is his level of intelligence and understanding of the game. He excelled at diagnosing plays and knowing where he needed to be.
Edgerrin Cooper and Evan Williams Will Provide Stability in 2025
Green Bay will plan for Cooper and Williams to be key contributors in 2025. Now that the two have experienced a full NFL season and will return to the same defense next fall, the expectation is they will take the year 2 jump and will be a staple of the defense. The Packers are expected to acquire new faces in the secondary and defensive line so having two established, younger players will help the new additions transition. Xavier McKinney and Evan Williams will be the calming voices in the secondary with a cornerback group that will, most likely, have little playing experience together.
Edgerrin Cooper will continue to be the jack of all trades for the Packers. Green Bay will continue to use him in coverage, which he will need to prioritize as an offseason improvement, and as a blitzer as well. Cooper’s ability to rush the passer and be a chess piece in Hafley’s unique blitz packages will be an advantage for what many expect to be an improved Packers defensive front.
Edgerrin Cooper finished the season with 87 total tackles, 4 sacks, and 1 INT. According to PFF, he was the 10th highest graded linebacker out 187. Evan Williams collected 43 total tackles and 1 INT while finishing the season as PFF’s 33rd highest graded safety out of 170. Cooper and Williams checked all the boxes as rookies but now they are expected to elevate their game in year 2 and become cornerstones in the 2025 Green Bay Packers defense.
