The Green Bay Packers have an under-the-radar need at linebacker heading into the 2025 draft. Quay Walker is entering the final year of his rookie deal, while Tyron Hopper played just 18 snaps as a rookie. Isaiah McDuffie re-signed with the team but has been average against the run and a liability in coverage, while veteran Eric Wilson left in free agency.
A strong rookie season from Edgerrin Cooper helped ease some concerns, but it has overshadowed how much the Packers still need to improve the quality and depth of the position.
The Packers have been scouting linebacker prospects leading up to the draft. A versatile Southeastern linebacker, who reportedly had a brief conversation with the team, recently appeared on a podcast where he discussed his strengths and the possibility of playing in Green Bay.
“I’m an all-around linebacker,” Southeastern’s Jomier Augustine said during an appearance on the MAC and Cheese Podcast. “I feel like I can do it all – I can rush the passer, stop the run, and drop in coverage. I feel like I can do all three, and I’m an excellent leader too. I lead by example, I make plays, and I’m a ball player.”
Augustine followed by discussing the possibility of playing for Green Bay.
“The Packers are definitely one of my teams that I like,” he said. “It’s up north, and I feel like I can adapt anywhere with my military background, so I think the Packers would be a good fit too.”
Augustine had a productive 2024 season at Southeastern. He totaled 35 tackles – 20 assisted and 15 solo – while helping lead the Fire defense to the third-best scoring mark in the NAIA, allowing just 10.2 points per game. He recorded 4.5 tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks in a 34-0 season-opening win over Faulkner University. Augustine also tied the program’s single-season record with two forced fumbles and was named Second-Team All-Sun Conference.
Packers General Manager Brian Gutekunst values versatility, and Augustine could fill a hybrid linebacker role in Green Bay. His flexibility at the second level could give defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley some unscouted looks to work with. The Packers should have opportunities to target Augustine in the later rounds, making him a low-risk, high-reward option.
