The Green Bay Packers are doing their homework ahead of the NFL Draft, hosting Middle Tennessee State defensive back Juwon Gaston for a pre-draft visit. This is a key part of the process where teams get an up-close look at potential late-round or priority free-agent talent.
On the field, Gaston's 2025 season was productive. As a rotational starter, he led his team with three interceptions, forced two fumbles, and broke up four passes. His performance against Nevada, where he snagged two picks, earned him Conference USA Defensive Player of the Week honors. Pro Football Focus awarded him a solid 71.6 overall defensive grade, highlighting his playmaking ability from multiple spots in the secondary, including deep safety and the slot.
However, his pre-draft evaluation presents a clear challenge. Gaston's athletic testing numbers were among the lowest in this year's class, resulting in a very poor Relative Athletic Score. At 5'10" and 198 pounds, his 4.72-second 40-yard dash and other metrics raise significant questions about his athleticism at the professional level. Analysts like Dane Brugler project him as a late-round or undrafted free agent prospect.
Despite the athletic concerns, his ball production and versatility are likely what piqued the Packers' interest. For a team always looking to add competitive depth to the secondary, bringing in a player like Gaston for a closer evaluation is a standard, low-risk move that could uncover a hidden gem for training camp.
