Nate Hobbs Channels Packers Greatness with No. 21 Jersey—Will History Repeat Itself?

The Green Bay Packers have made some notable moves this offseason, and one of the most intriguing additions is cornerback Nate Hobbs, who comes to Green Bay following a solid four-year tenure with the Las Vegas Raiders. In a bold move, the Packers signed Hobbs to a four-year, $48 million contract, signaling their belief that he can be a crucial piece in the team’s future plans.

Hobbs, at just 25 years old, has already showcased his potential as one of the league’s most promising young defensive backs. Over his first four seasons, he played in 51 games, racking up 281 tackles, three sacks, three forced fumbles, one fumble recovery, three interceptions, and 19 defended passes. His ability to perform in a variety of roles has given the Packers confidence that he can make an immediate impact on their defense.

But it’s not just his stats that are turning heads—it’s also the number on his jersey. Hobbs will be wearing the iconic No. 21 jersey for the Packers, a number that carries significant weight in Green Bay’s storied history. The last player to wear No. 21 for the Packers was none other than Charles Woodson, one of the greatest cornerbacks to ever play in the NFL. Woodson’s time in Green Bay was legendary, with the future Hall of Famer earning numerous accolades, including a Super Bowl ring and Defensive Player of the Year honors in 2009.

For Hobbs, being given the No. 21 jersey is not something he takes lightly. In an emotional and respectful nod to Woodson’s legacy, Hobbs shared his appreciation for the Packers legend. “One of the best to ever do it. I gotta pay him homage,” Hobbs said. “He gave me a shoutout (with the Raiders), said I was a dog, so I appreciate him and hopefully we can reconnect out here.”

Hobbs’ recognition of Woodson’s impact speaks to his understanding of the Packers’ rich history and his desire to honor the greats who came before him. Woodson’s time in Green Bay left an indelible mark on the franchise, and Hobbs is determined to live up to that legacy while making his own name with the team.

As the Packers head into the 2025 season, Hobbs could find himself in a starting role, potentially alongside Jaire Alexander, the current standout cornerback. While Alexander’s future with the team remains uncertain, Hobbs is poised to step up as a key contributor to a defense that’s looking to make its mark in the NFC North.

Could Hobbs be the next cornerback to follow in Woodson’s footsteps? The Packers are certainly hoping so. With his talent, work ethic, and clear understanding of what it means to wear No. 21, Hobbs has the potential to be one of the league’s premier cornerbacks—and with the Packers’ backing, his impact could be felt for years to come.

As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on Hobbs to see if he can help revive Green Bay’s cornerback legacy and build on the foundation laid by Charles Woodson. Time will tell if history truly repeats itself, but with Hobbs’ promise, it’s certainly a possibility worth watching.