The Packers officially signedEdgerrin Cooper, Green Bay’s second-round pick who also was the first linebacker selected in last month’s NFL Draft.
Plus, Cooper was the highest drafted player from Texas A&M. Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst announced the signing late Thursday. Cooper was a good pick up for Green Bay. He could’ve been a first-round pick if not for the position he plays. NFL teams don’t prioritize inside linebackers as much as they do the outside guys who can terrorize quarterbacks off the edge. It’s why Cooper went at pick No.45.
Last month, Gutekunst raved about the former Aggie linebacker during his post-draft press conference.
“Cooper, the speed that he brings to the table at the linebacker position is rare,” the Packers GM said.
Green Bay started phase three of OTAs this past week. Cooper was working with the second-team defense. The Packers are installing a 4-3 base defense with new coordinator Jeff Hafley.
Meanwhile, the Packers still need to reach deals with Jordan Morgan, the offensive tackle from Arizona. Morgan was Green Bay’s first rounder. Plus, the team still hasn’t finalized a deal with safety Javon Bullard, who like Cooper. was a second rounder.
There were questions as to which position Morgan will play with the Packers. He was a left tackle at Arizona. But he doesn’t have prototypical size for an NFL left tackle, which led to speculation he could end up at guard.
“He’s a natural on the edge,” Packers offensive coordinator Adam Stenavich told reporters earlier this month during rookie mini camp.
“He looks comfortable out there. There’s obviously some technique stuff we’ve got to clean up, just like anybody, but yeah, I’m excited to work with him and just watch him and see. I wouldn’t say he’s a tackle, I wouldn’t say he’s a guard, I just want to see where he fits best for us and with our best five out there.
This past week, Packers offensive lineman Zach Tom sat out OTAs as he recuperated from a torn pec muscle. So Green has shuffled some of its linemen. New free agent signee Andre Dillard is working with the first team at right tackle.
Morgan also rotated in at right tackle. The Packers also gave him time at left tackle when they went to full 11-on-11 drills.
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