The Green Bay Packers‘ front office has surprised fans over the past two seasons.
Historically, this is not a team that makes big trades or grandiose free-agent signings, but the Packers have seemingly shifted their mindset.
Trading for Micah Parsons was not only a surprise but, by many accounts, a league-altering decision, one that the Packers of yesteryear wouldn’t have considered.
Their change of heart dates back to before the 2024 season, as they also made a move to acquire safety Xavier McKinney in free agency, a player who has improved their downfield presence.
Analyst Brian Baldinger talked about this signing in a recent video he shared on X, noting what a strong move this was and has been for the Packers.
“The free safety for the Packers is Xavier McKinney. He’s a perfect fit for how they play. McKinney plays perfect centerfield. That’s his ninth interception in 20 starts for the Packers. He had nine in his first four years with the Giants. He’s a perfect fit for what they want in the middle of the field with this defense. Oh, by the way, the number one defense in the NFL right now through three weeks,” Baldinger said.
.@packers free safety, Xavier Mckinney, is a perfect fit for how the #GoPackGo wanna play defense. 9 INT’s in 20 starts. #BaldysBreakdowns pic.twitter.com/GXa5JNh2Oi
— Brian Baldinger (@BaldyNFL) September 24, 2025
The Packers are an organization with a lot of history and success, and they’ve had countless players throughout the years who have turned out to be all-time greats.
While McKinney might have a way to go to get that distinction, he certainly gets recognition as being one of the best safeties in the game.
This, paired with the Packers’ surprisingly strong cornerback room, has their defense in a better spot than even the most optimistic fan could have predicted.
Parsons was the big splash this year, of course, but players like McKinney are equally important to help the team’s cause down the field against the elite receivers around the league.
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