The Green Bay Packers are making bold moves to bolster their defensive backfield as they navigate the early stages of the 2025 NFL training camp. Among their recent roster additions, rookie cornerback Garnett Hollis Jr. stands out as a high-risk, high-reward gamble that could reshape the team’s defensive identity. Signed as an undrafted free agent on Saturday, Hollis brings a compelling mix of physicality, resilience, and untapped potential to a Packers’ cornerback unit that remains a work in progress.
From Undrafted to Opportunity: Hollis’ Journey to Green Bay
Garnett Hollis Jr.’s path to the NFL has been anything but conventional. After a promising three-year stint at Northwestern, where he racked up 78 tackles, four tackles for loss, two interceptions, and six pass deflections, Hollis established himself as a reliable run defender. His Pro Football Focus (PFF) run-defense grades of 85.0 or higher in each of his three seasons underscored his ability to disrupt plays at the line of scrimmage—a skill that aligns well with the Packers’ aggressive defensive scheme.
However, his 2024 season at West Virginia after transferring from Northwestern exposed some vulnerabilities. In pass coverage, Hollis struggled, allowing an opposing passer rating of 129.4 and surrendering five touchdowns, per PFF. These coverage issues cast doubts on his NFL prospects, and after signing with the Tennessee Titans as an undrafted free agent following the 2025 NFL Draft, he was waived just five days later. For many, this could have marked the end of the road.
But Hollis refused to let his dream die. His invitation to the 2025 East-West Shrine Bowl in January proved to be a turning point. During the showcase’s practices, the 23-year-old cornerback turned heads with his physicality and competitive spirit. His standout performance was further cemented at his pro day, where he clocked a 4.5-second 40-yard dash—a respectable time for a six-foot, 199-pound defensive back. Scouts took notice, and the Packers, always on the lookout for undervalued talent, saw an opportunity to take a chance on the rookie.
A Crowded Cornerback Competition
The Packers’ cornerback rotation is far from settled, making Hollis’ signing a timely one. Green Bay’s defensive backfield has been a point of concern, with depth and consistency remaining elusive. The team’s decision to sign Hollis to their 90-man roster (technically 91 with their international player designation) reflects their willingness to experiment with high-upside players who can compete for a spot.
Hollis joins a group of cornerbacks vying for roles behind established starters. His ability to contribute as a run defender could give him an edge in a defense that values versatility. However, his struggles in pass coverage mean he’ll need to prove he can hold his own against NFL receivers during training camp and preseason games. For Hollis, this is a golden opportunity to showcase his growth and silence doubters who point to his 2024 struggles.
A Boost from Micah Robinson’s Return
The Packers’ cornerback competition received another jolt of energy with the activation of seventh-round rookie Micah Robinson from the active/physically unable to perform (PUP) list on July 23. Robinson, who played one season at Tulane in 2024, brings his own intriguing skill set to the table. With 34 tackles, two interceptions (including a pick-six), and six pass deflections in 14 games, he showed playmaking ability. His 4.42-second 40-yard dash at his pro day further highlighted his athleticism, making him another contender for a depth role.
Robinson’s quick recovery from injury ensures he won’t miss significant time in camp, giving him a chance to compete alongside Hollis and other roster hopefuls. Like Hollis, Robinson will need to demonstrate his ability to adapt to the NFL’s speed and contribute on special teams—a critical factor for rookies aiming to secure a spot on the initial 53-man roster.
Why Hollis Could Be a Game-Changer
What makes Hollis such an intriguing gamble for the Packers is his potential to evolve into a versatile defensive weapon. His size, physicality, and run-stopping prowess make him a natural fit for a defense that thrives on disrupting opponents at the point of attack. If he can refine his coverage skills and capitalize on the coaching and competitive environment in Green Bay, Hollis could emerge as a steal for a team known for developing overlooked talent.
The Packers’ history of turning undrafted players into contributors—think Sam Shields or Tramon Williams—bodes well for Hollis. His Shrine Bowl performance and pro day metrics suggest he has the raw tools to succeed, but it will come down to his ability to translate those flashes into consistent production. With the cornerback room wide open, Hollis has a rare opportunity to carve out a role.
The Road Ahead
As training camp progresses, all eyes will be on how Hollis and Robinson fare in the Packers’ preseason games. For Hollis, the focus will be on improving his coverage instincts and proving he can handle the speed and complexity of NFL passing attacks. For the Packers, the addition of Hollis and the return of Robinson represent calculated risks that could pay dividends.
If Hollis defies the odds and secures a roster spot, he could become a symbol of the Packers’ knack for finding diamonds in the rough. His journey—from undrafted free agent to Shrine Bowl standout to Green Bay’s training camp—embodies the resilience and determination that define the NFL’s most inspiring success stories. Whether he becomes a cornerstone of the Packers’ defense or a reliable depth piece, Hollis’ gamble is one worth watching.