Every year, there is always one or two (or three) undrafted free agents that Green Bay Packers fans fall in love with during the NFL preseason. And every year, fans sit on pins and needles during what Packers legend Gilbert Brown calls Grim Reaper Day as cuts are announced. Sometimes, fans are disappointed by the release of a preseason darling, but other times they are excited to find that a preseason standout has made the team.
Earlier today, one of those fan favorites, wide receiver Malik Heath, was reported to have made the Packers’ 53-man roster. A few minutes ago, Matt Schneidman of The Athletic reported that another fan favorite, edge rusher Brenton Cox, also made the team:
Undrafted rookie OLB Brenton Cox Jr. made the Packers’ initial 53, per source.
— Matt Schneidman (@mattschneidman) August 29, 2023
Green Bay Packers Undrafted Rookie Brenton Cox Makes the 53-Man Roster
If there was ever a good redemption story in Green Bay in recent years, it could end up being that of Brenton Cox. Cox was not drafted due to character concerns that arose from the fact that he had been kicked out of two SEC football programs.
Despite being talented enough as a freshman to start on the famed Georgia defense, Cox was kicked out of the program following an arrest for marijuana and multiple altercations with coaches. He transferred to Florida, where head coach Billy Napier ended up dismissing him after his behavior and attitude towards coaches did not improve.
Going to Green Bay gave Cox a clean slate, and Packers coaches have been impressed with his work ethic throughout camp. His hard work certainly translated to the field where he was a constant presence in opponents’ backfields. According to PFF, Cox had seven total pressures in three games, one quarterback hit, and batted down two passes at the line of scrimmage.
Cox will join a pass rushing group that includes Rashan Gary, Preston Smith, Kingsley Enagbare, and Lukas Van Ness. It also could include veteran Justin Hollins if the Packers decide to keep six edge rushers.
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