Green Bay Packers 2023 NFL Mock Draft post Aaron Rodgers trade

Jordan Battle, S, Alabama

The second round of the draft is the perfect spot to find such a safety, and Jordan Battle, a senior defensive back from Alabama, is an excellent fit. Battle has emerged as one of the leaders on the talented Alabama defense, both vocally and with his high-level play on the field. He is a versatile defensive back who has played both strong and free safety, in one-high or two-high schemes, while also aligning in the nickel position and playing in the box.

The Bama defensive back shows a physical temperament and an aggressive nature to his game. He has the ability to close quickly from distance and make technically-sound tackles on runners.

Battle has solid coverage skills thanks to his ability to flip his hips and run with defenders. He also shows plus-level speed and good range to make plays on the football. Battle’s best plays come when he can play 10-12 yards off the ball in a flat-foot read and play the robber role to read and diagnose route combinations. From this position, Battle can jump routes to make the interception or he can deliver the big hit to receivers on crossing routes.

While Battle is a prospect with a lot of high-level traits, there are minor details of his game that he can work to improve, such as taking bad angles as a run defender or losing proper leverage in man-to-man coverage. However, Battle’s versatility, high IQ, fluid movement skills, and physicality as a tackler make him an attractive prospect for the Packers in the second round.