New England Patriots rumors: 3 Packers to target in 2022 NFL free agency

New England Patriots should consider cornerback Kevin King as a potential No. 2

A four-year starter with the Green Bay Packers, 26-year-old Kevin King should be on the Patriots radar either as a No. 2 cornerback option or maybe even a replacement for J.C. Jackson.

As a big cornerback, King isn’t at the level of Jackson, but when healthy has been a very productive secondary performer for the Packers.  In 2019, he was amongst the top cornerbacks with five interceptions and 15 passes defensed.

Like many Green Bay players, King is coming off a game against the San Francisco 49ers he would like to forget as he got overpowered by a Deebo Samuel stiff arm on a 45-yard kick return to start the second half of that Divisional round matchup.

Not a highlight or lowlight that would leave a good impression for Patriots fans.  If you remember, King was also burned in the 2020 playoffs in that NFC Championship game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.  Not only did he allow two touchdowns, but he was flagged for pass interference in the final moments of the game that led to another bad memory for the Packers.

So, why should the Patriots make a play for King?

Depth, potential, size and the ability of Belichick to coach him up.

Quite frankly, if the New England Patriots sign King and he is brought in as a No. 1 corner option, the team is in trouble.  But, as a depth piece and potential No. 2 corner, King would help solidify a secondary that will hopefully have Jackson, Jalen Mills and Jonathan Jones returning from injury.