Former New York Giants safety Xavier McKinney has agreed to terms with the Green Bay Packers, marking a significant move for the team's defensive backfield. The Packers' general manager expressed a desire to strengthen the back end of the defense following the 2023 season, highlighting the need for more consistency.
Xavier McKinney, aged 24, brings a wealth of talent and experience to the Packers after spending his first four seasons with the Giants. In 2023, McKinney was ranked as the No. 4 safety in football by Pro Football Focus, excelling in both coverage and box safety roles.
McKinney's impressive performance included not allowing any touchdowns on 53 targets in 592 coverage snaps last season. He also showcased his playmaking ability with five interceptions in 2021 and three in 2023, establishing himself as a reliable tackler on the field.
The Packers' decision to sign McKinney to a four-year, $68 million deal reflects their confidence in his abilities to bolster the defense. Despite some past controversies, including public criticism of a former defensive coordinator, McKinney is expected to thrive in the Packers' defensive scheme under new coordinator Jeff Hafley.
Hafley emphasized the importance of having a safety who can make game-changing plays, erase mistakes, and contribute to overall defensive success. McKinney's skill set aligns with Hafley's vision for the position, making him a valuable addition to the team.
With McKinney now part of the Packers' roster, the team has a solid foundation to build its safety group around. This move comes as safety Darnell Savage, the team's 2019 first-round draft pick, agreed to terms with the Jacksonville Jaguars, creating an opportunity for McKinney to step into a key role within the defense.
As the Packers look ahead to the upcoming season, McKinney's arrival signals a proactive approach to addressing defensive needs and enhancing the team's competitiveness in the NFC North division.
