Packers evaluate cornerback depth and defensive performance in final practice before preseason debut

Green Bay held its 11th training-camp practice on Monday, using the session to test players in different roles as the team prepares for its preseason opener against the Steelers on Thursday. Cornerback veteran Keisean Nixon saw his snaps reduced in favor of rookie Benjamin St-Juste, while rookie Brandon Cisse and returning rookie Carrington Valentine also earned more playing time.

Head coach Matt LaFleur said the staff is "putting different guys in different situations" to see how they respond. Safety Xavier McKinney praised the defense’s red-zone execution, noting the unit was "technically sound" and communicated well throughout the drill series.

The practice featured a series of third-and-goal attempts by quarterback Jordan Love, resulting in one touchdown to Skyy Moore after a contested catch and several incomplete passes. Safety Evan Williams was highlighted for forcing a pass-breakup and later intercepting a throw, earning him the "player of the day" designation.

Injury updates included a new illness for edge rusher Dani Dennis-Sutton and several players on the physically unable to perform list, such as Micah Parsons (knee) and TE Luke Musgrave (neck). Returning players included WR Matthew Golden (toe) and CB Carrington Valentine (hamstring). The team also signed safeties Trey Dean and Tra Fluellen while releasing guard/tackle Karsen Barnhart and TE Drew Biber.

Quarterback Jordan Love said he will limit his workload in the preseason after a thumb injury last year, aiming to stay healthy for the regular season. Linebacker Zaire Franklin echoed a simple game-plan approach for the upcoming preseason game, emphasizing basic offensive and defensive concepts to showcase talent.

The Packers will hold public practices on Sunday and Tuesday next week as they finalize preparations for the Thursday matchup.