Packers nab former Giants DB Xavier McKinney to be the face of their pass defense
The Green Bay Packers’ pass defense was kind of a disaster last season, and general manager Brian Gutekunst did what he needed to do by moving on from defensive coordinator Joe Barry and replacing him with Jeff Hafley. Now, the Packers have added a major cog to a defense that allowed 25 touchdowns to just nine interceptions last season. The team has agreed to terms with former New York Giants defensive back Xavier McKinney.
It’s a big deal, but McKinney has become a big-time player.
More Packers moves: Free-agent safety Xavier McKinney is signing a four-year, $68 million deal – a $17M per year average – with the Green Bay Packers. Agent David Mulugheta confirmed the deal. pic.twitter.com/tNy4F6YkHc
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 11, 2024
Selected in the second round of the 2020 draft out of Alabama, McKinney had his best season to date in 2023 as a key part of Wink Martindale’s blitz-heavy, man-heavy defense. He allowed 33 catches on 54 targ4ts for 288 yards, 235 yards after the catch, no touchdowns, three interceptions, 11 pass-breakups, and an opponent passer rating of 52.1.
Moreover, McKinney can play anywhere in Hafley’s defense — deep third, box, slot, and even some press cornerback.
Xavier McKinney — HUGE get for the Packers. Athletic, versatile, resourceful defender who can win everywhere from press to slot to the deep third. pic.twitter.com/d8LtKGWMgR
— Doug Farrar ✍ (@NFL_DougFarrar) March 11, 2024
