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5 Things to Know: Cornerback Nate Hobbs
5 Things to Know: Cornerback Nate Hobbs 
From Illinois to the NFL, here’s what to know about cornerback Nate Hobbs’ journey, versatility, and impact beyond football.
By Brooke Evans Apr 03, 2026

Cornerback Nate Hobbs is bringing his playmaking ability to the secondary.

Originally selected by the Las Vegas Raiders in the fifth round (167th overall) of the 2021 NFL Draft, Hobbs spent four seasons in Las Vegas before continuing his career in Green Bay. Over that span, he appeared in more than 60 career games and totaled over 300 tackles.

Now, he brings that edge and a unique off-field perspective to his next chapter in The Bay.

Here are five things to know about Hobbs:

1. From under-recruited to NFL starter

Hobbs' path to the NFL wasn't always flashy. Coming out of high school in Louisville, Kentucky, he received limited major college interest with just one offer from the Power Five. Hobbs flew under the radar as a recruit until committing to Illinois.

At Illinois, Hobbs worked his way into a starting role. Across his four-year collegiate career, he appeared in 39 games with 35 starts, totaling 168 tackles, 12.5 tackles for loss, and three interceptions. He earned All-Big Ten honorable mention honors in 2019.

He turned that opportunity into a fifth-round selection in the 2021 NFL Draft. Hobbs made an immediate impact as a rookie, earning Pro Football Focus All-Rookie Team honors and establishing himself as a starter in the secondary.

2. Built on Production and Reliability

Since being drafted to the Las Vegas Raiders in 2021, Hobbs has made his mark as a versatile and reliable presence, especially in the slot. Across his five-year NFL career, he's totaled 308 tackles (214 solo), along with multiple sacks, and double digit passes defended, showing a physical play style and ability to impact the game beyond just coverage.

Hobbs spent four seasons with the Raiders before he signed with the Green Bay Packers in March 2025 as an unrestricted free agent.

3. Leads with Vulnerability, Grounded in Family

Off the field, Hobbs has emerged as a voice for mental health awareness. After losing his father at a young age and navigating the pressures of the NFL, he's been open about his struggles with anxiety and the importance of seeking help. Raised by his mother, Denise, a therapist, he grew up in an environment that encouraged emotional openness which is something that continues to shape him today.

Speaking at a National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) panel in February 2024, Hobbs emphasized the power of vulnerability.

"The fact that I'm able to sit in front of a plethora of people and tell them about my emotions, that gives me strength," he said. "Sometimes you just have to do things scared."

4. A “Swiss Army Knife” in the Secondary

Versatility has become a defining part of Hobbs' game, and those who know him best see it clearly. Former teammate Josh Jacobs described Hobbs as a "Swiss Army knife" in the secondary, highlighting his ability to impact the game in multiple ways.

"He's a guy that's not afraid of contact and one of the few defensive backs that isn't scared to put his face in the sand," Jacobs said in an interview with 247sports.

After playing together for three seasons with the Las Vegas Raiders, Jacobs knows exactly what Hobbs brings: physicality, flexibility, and a willingness to do whatever the defense needs.

5. Inspiring the Next Generation

Hobbs continues to invest in his hometown of Louisville, hosting free youth football camps that bring together dozens of local kids for drills, competition, and mentorship. This year he hosted his fifth-annual event.

"I'm just so grateful to be able to have this opportunity to give back to my people, my roots, my stomping grounds where I came up," said Hobbs to local media. "I want them to not forget where they come from, and wherever they go, remember who they are."

Through his camps, Hobbs is committed to giving back to his roots and inspiring the next generation on and off the field.

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