The Green Bay Packers are gearing up for a significant overhaul of their cornerback position as they approach the 2025 NFL Draft. After losing key players Eric Stokes, Corey Ballentine, and Robert Rochell to free agency, the Packers are looking to bolster their secondary. General Manager Brian Gutekunst has already signed Nate Hobbs to a four-year deal, adding depth and versatility to the roster. As the draft approaches, one name that has emerged as a potential target for the Packers is Shavon Revel Jr., a standout cornerback from East Carolina, who ranks No. 14 in the Unpacking Future Packers Countdown.
Revel’s journey to this point has been anything but straightforward. He began his collegiate career at the junior college level before transferring to East Carolina in 2022. Unfortunately, his start with the Pirates was delayed due to a hand injury suffered in offseason workouts. However, he bounced back in 2023, showcasing his skills with a breakout season where he recorded 54 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss, one sack, one interception, and an impressive 13 pass deflections.
Despite a strong performance, Revel faced another setback this past season when he suffered a torn ACL after playing in just three games. Nevertheless, in those games, he was a force to be reckoned with, tallying two interceptions and two pass deflections. Standing at 6-1 with nearly 33-inch arms, Revel possesses a unique combination of size and speed that makes him an intriguing prospect for NFL teams. His athleticism was highlighted in Bruce Feldman's Annual Freaks list, where he was ranked No. 35. Feldman noted that Revel ran a 6.90 55-meter dash and clocked an impressive 4.40 in the 40-yard dash during a summer camp, demonstrating his explosive speed.
Revel's ability to stay attached to wide receivers on deep routes is commendable. He quickly reaches his top gear and possesses excellent change-of-direction skills, allowing him to mirror receivers effectively. His recovery speed is elite, and he remains calm when the ball is in the air. Devin Jackson, an NFL Draft writer for The Philadelphia Inquirer, praised Revel, stating, "Revel’s recovery speed and his speed breaking on the football is among the best in the class." Jackson further elaborated on Revel's opportunistic nature in coverage, noting that he often undercuts routes and makes game-changing plays.
In addition to his coverage skills, Revel is not afraid to step up in run support. He has a wide tackle radius due to his impressive wingspan and is physical despite his slender frame. Pro Football Focus reported that Revel missed only four tackles during his time at East Carolina, showcasing his effectiveness as a run defender. Jackson remarked, "He’s physical as a run defender despite his slender frame. He doesn't mind sticking his nose in as a run defender." Revel also contributed on special teams, blocking two kicks during the 2023 campaign and logging 137 snaps over his first two seasons.
As the Packers look to rebuild their cornerback room, Revel's potential is hard to ignore. Before his injury, he was on track to be a Top 15 pick, and his performance at the NFL Scouting Combine would have drawn significant attention. However, with the uncertainty surrounding his recovery from the torn ACL and his age—he will be 24 on draft night—the Packers may opt to wait until the second round to select him. If he is still available when they are on the clock, it could be a tremendous value pick for Gutekunst and the Packers.
Jackson expressed optimism about Revel's future, stating, "The best is ahead of Revel, who showcased excellent change of direction ability and closing speed to make plays on the football." He added that Revel possesses the skill set, length, instincts, and ball skills to become a high-upside cover corner capable of playing both man and zone coverages. Assuming he is healthy, Revel has the potential to make an immediate impact at the NFL level.
In conclusion, Shavon Revel Jr. represents a promising prospect for the Green Bay Packers as they prepare for the 2025 NFL Draft. His combination of size, speed, and playmaking ability makes him an appealing target. If he falls to the second round, the Packers would be wise to make him their selection, adding much-needed length and talent to their cornerback room. With his competitive nature and determination, Revel could quickly become a key player in Green Bay's defense.
