The Green Bay Packers have all but finalized their 2026 draft class, but one notable name remains absent from the signing sheet: second-round cornerback Brandon Cisse. While the rest of the team's rookies have put pen to paper, Cisse's holdout is turning heads in Titletown.
On Monday, reports confirmed that eight of Green Bay's nine draft picks have inked their rookie deals. The lone holdout? Cisse, a talented cornerback from South Carolina selected with the 52nd overall pick. As modern contract negotiations increasingly focus on guaranteed money, Cisse's delay reflects a broader trend in the league—rookies, especially those drafted in the early rounds, are pushing for more financial security upfront.
Here's a quick look at the Packers' 2026 rookie class that has already signed:
• Chris McClellan, DT, Missouri (Round 3, Pick 77)
• Dani Dennis-Sutton, EDGE, Penn State (Round 4, Pick 120)
• Jager Burton, OL, Kentucky (Round 5, Pick 153)
• Domani Jackson, CB, Alabama (Round 6, Pick 201)
• Trey Smack, K, Florida (Round 6, Pick 216)
But all eyes are on Cisse. Why? Because the Packers entered the draft with a glaring need at cornerback, and they believe Cisse could be the long-term answer. With Green Bay trading away their first-round pick in the Micah Parsons deal, Cisse essentially becomes their top selection—and a cornerstone for the secondary's future.
For Packers fans, there's no need to sound the alarm just yet. Cisse participated in rookie minicamp, and it's still only May. The offseason program is in full swing, and there's every reason to believe a deal will be reached before training camp kicks off. General manager Brian Gutekunst and his staff are likely working around the clock to get Cisse signed, ensuring he's on the field when it matters most.
In today's NFL, rookie holdouts are often less about drama and more about details—guaranteed money, signing bonuses, and offset language. For a player with Cisse's potential, patience is a small price to pay for a contract that sets him up for success. Stay tuned, Packers fans: this story is just beginning.