The Green Bay Packers shocked the NFL world this off-season by signing not only one top free agent, but two. It has been years since Green Bay made a splash move in free agency, this year they got arguably the best Safety and Running Back available.
The Packers will have big expectations for Xavier McKinney this year. He will likely be a vocal point of Jeff Hafley’s defense.
However, it was McKinney who was taken back by what he saw at practice today.
Green Bay Packers Safety Xavier McKinney Loves What He Sees In Front Of Him
According to Matt Schneidman of The Athletic:
Xavier McKinney:
“It’s been fun just going out there with the guys, R.G., K.C. All these guys are leaders. They’ve been leaders before I got here. I’m just here to add on.”
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With Jeff Hafley as defensive coordinator, the defense is taking on a new approach. With a 4-3 base scheme, Green Bay’s pass rushers will be able to take off as defensive ends instead of outside linebackers.
Lukas Van Ness, for example, should greatly benefit from that. During his college career, the first-round pick in 2023 played a similar role for the Iowa Hawkeyes. In his rookie season, he contributed four sacks, but he could make a big leap forward in the new defense.
The year may be Rashan Gary’s year for double-digit sacks. Although he struggled after returning from a torn ACL in 2023, he still racked up nine sacks.
Also, Preston Smith has proven to be a reliable presence for the Packers, excelling especially in run defense. Although he has not shown any signs of slowing down, he could be nearing the end of his NFL career at 31 years old.
Throw newly extended Kenny Clark into the mix and Green Bay will have a formidable defensive line for the foreseeable future. Something Safeties (like McKinney) love to have on their side.
