Xavier McKinney doesn’t seem to be as prominant in the headlines as he was a year ago when he was an interception machine.
In fact by October of last year, McKinney had already registered those 5 straight games with an interception. That being said, don’t let the numbers this year fool you, he’s still elite, opposing teams have just adjusted.
Xavier McKinney Getting 0 Targets = 0 Chance
It’s pretty black and white here folks, check out this stat courtesy of GBP Daily.
While there has been a lack of consistency for Green Bay’s secondary this season, it is certainly not due to the game play of Xavier McKinney. In fact, he is so dominant that teams are actively scheming away from him. This is very similar to how offensive lines scheme for Micah Parsons however, Micah’s win rate is higher due to the nature of the EDGE position.
Also Micah is a freak of nature.
I am hard pressed to think of how much more validated a player’s domination can be, than to have other teams afraid to throw the ball in his direction. While he may not have the number of splash plays he did a season ago, there is no regression in his game play.
McKinney is also sporting 1 of the Packers 2 interceptions in 2025.
Secondary Needs To Come Alive
While McKinney may be quieter on the stat sheets, opposing quarterback’s apprehension to even test him shows his value and high impact on the game. His wingman Evan WIlliams is physical as ever, and for the 2nd year in a row, my biggest concern is with the DB room.
Look at these stats against the Cardinals.
I definitely feel like if the Packers are buyers by this year’s trade deadline, they will certainly be making moves to improve that position via the draft and free agency. Inconsistent and poor play from Nate Hobbs and Keisean Nixon continue to be the thorn in the defense’s side. Carrington Valentine has certainly progressed, but is not at a level to overtake a CB1 role. Though in my opinion he is a better option than Nixon.
So as to say, that neither Nixon or Hobbs are an heir apparent to the void left by Jaire Alexander in the last few seaons. McKinney is doing the best he can with the cast he is supporting. Hopefully Jeff Hafley can find a way to scheme through this, or perhaps the Packers have one last big splash to make for their roster this season.
One thing is certain, without Xavier McKinney I would be shocked if teams weren’t picking apart this secondary on a weekly basis.
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The post Don’t Be Fooled Xavier McKinney Still Dominanting The Game first appeared on PackersTalk.com Blog Posts and Podcasts.