Green Bay Packers defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon expressed strong approval of rookie cornerback Brandon Cisse’s early contributions during training camp and the preseason.
Gannon highlighted the second-round pick’s on-field execution and off-field habits in comments shared Saturday.
“He covered well, he was physical… before you send him a text about a certain play and his technique, he’s sending you the text first. That’s good to see,” Gannon said.
The remarks underscored Cisse’s attentiveness and self-motivation as he adjusts to the NFL level.
Cisse, selected 52nd overall in the 2026 NFL Draft out of South Carolina, has drawn attention for his athleticism and physical style since arriving in Green Bay. At 5-foot-11 and 189 pounds, the Sumter, South Carolina, native ran a 4.41-second 40-yard dash at his pro day and posted a 41-inch vertical jump at the scouting combine.
In his final college season with the Gamecocks after two years at North Carolina State, Cisse recorded 27 tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss, one interception, five pass breakups and one forced fumble across 12 games. Those numbers reflected steady production for a player who turned 21 only in July.
Gannon, in his first season as Packers defensive coordinator after three years as head coach of the Arizona Cardinals, has emphasized competition in the secondary. Green Bay’s cornerback group includes veterans Keisean Nixon and Carrington Valentine along with free-agent addition Benjamin St-Juste.
Cisse has worked extensively with the first-team defense at times during camp, including matchups against wide receiver Christian Watson.
The Packers entered the draft without a first-round selection and prioritized the corner position early on Day 2. Gannon’s scheme stresses physicality and attention to detail, traits the coach has repeatedly noted in the young corner.
Cisse’s willingness to review film independently and communicate with coaches before being prompted has stood out amid the installation of a new defensive system.
Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst has previously described Cisse as a mature prospect despite his age, citing the team’s past success developing young talent.
Training camp practices and the first preseason contest against the Pittsburgh Steelers provided early opportunities for Cisse to gain snaps. Gannon indicated he intentionally increased the rookie’s workload to evaluate progress in real-time situations.
The secondary remains a focal point for a defense seeking improved consistency after last season.
Cisse wears No. 2, a number chosen partly out of respect for former Packers standout Charles Woodson. As camp continues with additional open practices and preseason games ahead, Gannon’s positive assessment signals growing confidence in the second-round investment.
Observers note that sustained performance from Cisse could accelerate his path toward a significant role on the boundary.
The Packers host further sessions this week before traveling for their next exhibition matchup. Gannon’s feedback arrives as the team evaluates depth and starter candidates across the defensive backfield.
Cisse’s combination of speed, physicality and proactive approach has positioned him as one of the more noticeable rookies in the early going.
