Packers Cornerback Nate Hobbs to Miss Games With Injury

Green Bay, Wisconsin — Packers cornerback Nate Hobbs will miss several games due to a sprained MCL in his knee, according to Ryan Wood of PackersNews. Hobbs previously missed Week 1 while recovering from surgery for a torn meniscus, but this latest injury is not related to the same knee.

An MRI conducted on Monday revealed a small tear in his MCL, classified as a grade 1 sprain, which does not require surgery, Wood reported. Hobbs has played only 23 defensive snaps over the past two weeks due to these injuries.

With Hobbs sidelined, the Packers are reportedly exploring the signing of free agent cornerback Asante Samuel Jr., as reported by Matt Schneidman of TheAthletic.com. Samuel was a top free agent in the spring but has remained unsigned, having recently been cleared to participate in football activities after undergoing spinal fusion surgery in April.

In 2024, Samuel played only four games for the Los Angeles Chargers. Sources indicate the Packers initially wanted Samuel to visit before the trade deadline, but his camp requested to wait until after the deadline, as Samuel seeks a team where he can start immediately and rebuild his reputation ahead of the 2026 free agent market.

Samuel’s current career earnings total $7.2 million, and his next multi-year contract is expected to be significant if he performs well in the 2025 season. The Packers currently have only two healthy cornerbacks who have played in NFL regular-season games: Keisean Nixon and Carrington Valentine.

The possible addition of Samuel could complicate the cornerback situation in Green Bay, where at least two players—including Hobbs—are vying for the starting position. The Packers are also dressing second-year cornerback Kamal Hadden, who has limited experience.

Derrick Ansley, the Packers’ passing game coordinator, has a history with Samuel, having worked with him during his time as the Chargers’ defensive backs coach. Their past connection could be beneficial in attracting Samuel to Green Bay.