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Packers: 5 defensive players to avoid in 2021 free agency

By Brian Sampson

JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 13: Nyheim Hines #21 of the Indianapolis Colts attempts to run past D.J. Hayden #25 of the Jacksonville Jaguars during the game at TIAA Bank Field on September 13, 2020 in Jacksonville, Florida. (Photo by Sam Greenwood/Getty Images)
JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 13: Nyheim Hines #21 of the Indianapolis Colts attempts to run past D.J. Hayden #25 of the Jacksonville Jaguars during the game at TIAA Bank Field on September 13, 2020 in Jacksonville, Florida. (Photo by Sam Greenwood/Getty Images) /
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HOUSTON, TEXAS – DECEMBER 30: DeAndre Carter #14 of the Houston Texans runs with the ball as D.J. Hayden #25 of the Jacksonville Jaguars pursues during the fourth quarter at NRG Stadium on December 30, 2018 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Bob Levey/Getty Images)
HOUSTON, TEXAS – DECEMBER 30: DeAndre Carter #14 of the Houston Texans runs with the ball as D.J. Hayden #25 of the Jacksonville Jaguars pursues during the fourth quarter at NRG Stadium on December 30, 2018 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Bob Levey/Getty Images) /

Free agent to avoid 1: D.J. Hayden, Cornerback

The former 12th overall pick in the 2013 NFL Draft, D.J. Hayden started his professional career in a strong way. He had two very good seasons in 2013 and 2014, however, he hasn’t been able to replicate that since.

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Hayden is a liability in coverage where he struggles to stay with his man. Although he was injured for much of 2020, he had a horrendous PFF coverage grade before he went down. Considering whichever corner starts opposite Alexander is likely to get picked on by opposing quarterbacks, the Packers can’t afford to sign someone who isn’t able to hold their own on the outside.

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