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Green Bay’s Rising Defensive Star Shuts Down Trade Talk: “If I Have to Leave, I’d Rather Retire a Packer.”

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 October 22, 2025 | Green Bay, Wisconsin

Just days after reports surfaced of frustration and internal tension, Carrington Valentine has broken his silence — and his message is as defiant as it is emotional.

The second-year cornerback, whose early exit during Green Bay’s 27–23 win over the Arizona Cardinals drew headlines and internal scrutiny, addressed the situation late Tuesday evening in an exclusive conversation with local media. Contrary to speculation that the Packers might explore trade scenarios before the deadline, Valentine made it clear: he’s not going anywhere. “If I have to leave Green Bay,” Valentine said, his voice steady but firm, “I’d rather retire a Packer.”

The statement — brief, raw, and deeply personal — immediately reshaped the narrative surrounding Valentine’s future. What once appeared to be a potential breakup now feels more like a declaration of loyalty from a young player fighting to prove his worth.
Carrington Valentine should start the rest of the season | Acme Packing  Company

Valentine, a 2023 seventh-round pick out of Kentucky, has faced a difficult stretch this season. His defensive role has steadily diminished amid the rise of Nate Hobbs and Keisean Nixon, leaving him with just two defensive snaps against Arizona. But those close to the cornerback describe him as “competitive, not complacent,” and determined to earn back his role in defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley’s rotation.

“I love this locker room. I love this defense,” Valentine added. “Things haven’t gone my way lately, but that doesn’t mean I quit. This team drafted me. They believed in me first. That means something.”

Inside the Packers facility, the reaction to Valentine’s comments has reportedly been positive. One team veteran told The Athletic that the young corner “finally said what everyone wanted to hear — that he still wants to fight for Green Bay, not walk away.”

Head coach Matt LaFleur, when asked about Valentine’s statement, offered a measured but encouraging response. “That’s what we want — guys who want to be here,” LaFleur said. “We’ve all seen Carrington’s potential. It’s about channeling that emotion the right way.”

The Packers’ coaching staff is expected to continue evaluating the cornerback rotation heading into Week 8 against the Pittsburgh Steelers, but Valentine’s fiery declaration may have shifted perceptions inside the building.

For now, trade talks appear to be off the table — replaced by something the Packers value even more: commitment. And as Green Bay pushes deeper into the season, Carrington Valentine’s message echoes like a promise both to himself and to the fans at Lambeau Field: “I came here to be a Packer. That’s how I want to finish.”

TIME CHANGE: Packers vs. Steelers Game Postponed Due to Serious Incident at Acrisure Stadium - Game Information
TIME CHANGE: Packers vs. Steelers Game Postponed Due to Serious Incident at Acrisure Stadium - Game Information October 21, 2025 | Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania The Green Bay Packers are set to face the Pittsburgh Steelers in a highly anticipated Week 8 Sunday Night Football matchup — but there’s an unexpected twist that could impact both teams’ preparation. The game, originally scheduled to take place at Acrisure Stadium on Sunday, October 26, 2025, at 8:20 PM ET, may be moved to a new location or rescheduled due to urgent field repairs in Pittsburgh. According to multiple league and team sources, Acrisure Stadium’s natural grass surface sustained significant damage during the Steelers’ Week 6 clash with the Cincinnati Bengals. The issue reportedly began when kicker Chris Boswell slipped on a poorly maintained patch of turf while attempting a 45-yard field goal late in the second quarter — tearing up a section of the field in the process. Subsequent rainfall and back-to-back home games have worsened the condition, leaving the surface uneven and unsafe for play. A team official familiar with the situation told local reporters that “the grass is in worse shape than expected,” noting that maintenance crews have been working around the clock to restore the playing field. However, early inspections by the league’s safety committee this week indicated that the surface may not be fully ready by game day. As a precaution, the NFL and both organizations have begun exploring contingency plans. Among the options being discussed: relocating the game to Cleveland Browns Stadium, roughly two hours northwest of Pittsburgh, or shifting kickoff time to Monday night to allow additional repair work. Neither option has been finalized, but the league is expected to make an announcement by midweek. Despite the uncertainty, fans are eagerly awaiting what promises to be a compelling matchup. The Packers enter Week 8 with a 4–3 record, led by running back Josh Jacobs’ resurgent form and a defense that continues to rank among the NFC’s best in red-zone efficiency. The Steelers, meanwhile, are looking to rebound after back-to-back divisional losses, relying on T.J. Watt’s pass-rushing dominance and the return of key offensive linemen to regain stability. As of now, kickoff remains scheduled for Sunday, October 26, at 8:20 PM ET , airing nationally on NBC and streaming live on Peacock. Packers are currently 3.5-point favorites according to BetMGM Sportsbook, with an Over/Under of 44.5 total points. Still, the spotlight isn’t just on the players this week — it’s on the grass beneath them. For now, the league, fans, and both teams wait as Acrisure’s grounds crew races against time. We will provide the latest updates as soon as an official decision is made. Stay tuned to our page for real-time coverage and updates on the Packers’ Week 8 matchup.