Packers cautiously optimistic about start of Year 2 for CB Kalen King

The outlook for the Green Bay Packers' cornerback room remains in flux until a resolution can be reached with Jaire Alexander. The Packers would like clarity on whether they can expect to have their two-time All-Pro around in 2025, but there has been a surprising storyline to come out of the cornerback room to start the offseason.

During his Q&A session with the media last week, Packers defensive passing game coordinator Derrick Ansley spoke highly of 2024 seventh-round pick Kalen King.

"I don't want to speak too soon, knock on wood, but he's looking really, really good out there," Ansley said via Packers.com. "He's playing inside and out. Kinda like the light has gone off for him, and he looks more springy in his step."

King was an intriguing pick by the Packers in 2024 after an uneven college career. After a sophomore season in which he logged three interceptions and broke up 18 passes, King was a projected first-round pick heading into his junior season. However, King's performance dipped significantly during his final season at Penn State, causing him to fall to Green Bay with the 255th overall pick.

Last summer, King had his moments—recording a pick-six against Jordan Love during a training camp practice—but didn't show enough on defense or special teams to make the team. After being signed to the practice squad, King was elevated to the gameday roster for one game last season but did not play a single snap. Not ready to give up on King, the Packers signed him to a reserve/future contract after the season.

Now, it sounds like he is doing all the right things heading into Year 2.

"He's changed his body. His mind is at ease and he's just jumped into this thing full speed ahead, man," said Ansley. "He's been very impressive and we've just got to continue to get that kind of day-to-day performance out of him."

It's too early to say what kind of role King will have in 2025, but it's a good sign that he's showing growth. Green Bay lacks depth at the cornerback position, so King emerging into a player who could be active on gameday or contribute on special teams would be a positive development.

This article originally appeared on Packers Wire: Packers cautiously optimistic about start of Year 2 for CB Kalen King