The Green Bay Packers’ hopes of seeing their star safety Xavier McKinney hoist the Defensive Player of the Year award in 2025 appear to be slipping away, according to recent NFL insider buzz. McKinney, who dazzled fans with a breakout 2024 season, has fallen behind in the race for the league’s top defensive honor, with names like T.J. Watt and Myles Garrett dominating the conversation. For a player once viewed as a dark horse for the prestigious award, the writing seems to be on the wall for Green Bay’s defensive cornerstone.
McKinney, 26, signed a four-year, $68 million deal with the Packers in March 2024 and quickly became a fan favorite at Lambeau Field. His 2024 campaign was nothing short of spectacular, racking up seven interceptions—tied for the league lead—along with 81 tackles, one sack, and 10 pass deflections across 17 games. His knack for game-changing plays earned him a Pro Bowl nod and NFC Defensive Player of the Week honors in October. Yet, despite these accolades, McKinney’s chances of securing the Defensive Player of the Year title are dwindling, overshadowed by edge rushers with gaudier sack totals.
Why McKinney’s Campaign Is Fading
The Defensive Player of the Year award has historically favored players with eye-popping stats, particularly sacks, and 2024 was no exception. Pittsburgh’s T.J. Watt posted 11.5 sacks and six forced fumbles, while Cleveland’s Myles Garrett led with 14 sacks and a slew of disruptive plays. McKinney’s seven interceptions and stellar coverage skills, while elite for a safety, haven’t carried the same weight with voters. “Xavier’s been phenomenal, but the award tends to go to guys who live in the backfield,” said NFL Network’s Bucky Brooks. “Sacks sell, and McKinney’s role doesn’t generate those numbers.”
Injuries also played a part. A minor shoulder issue sidelined McKinney for one game and limited his snaps in others, dulling his momentum at key moments. The Packers’ defense, while improved under coordinator Jeff Hafley, leaned heavily on McKinney to cover for inconsistencies in the front seven, reducing his opportunities for splash plays late in the season. Posts on X echo the sentiment, with one user stating, “McKinney’s a beast, but Watt and Garrett are on another level. Tough year to compete.”
What’s Next for McKinney and Green Bay
The Packers remain committed to McKinney as a cornerstone of their defense. General Manager Brian Gutekunst praised him at the NFL Owners Meetings, saying, “Xavier’s a leader and a playmaker. He’s exactly what we envisioned when we brought him here.” However, with McKinney locked into his contract through 2027, Green Bay faces no immediate pressure to renegotiate, unlike some stars chasing new deals. Instead, the focus is on building around him for a deeper playoff run in 2025.
McKinney’s camp has stayed quiet, but sources suggest he’s disappointed yet motivated. “He knows he’s among the best, and he’ll use this as fuel,” said ESPN’s Rob Demovsky. The Packers are eyeing the 2025 NFL Draft to bolster their defensive line, potentially freeing McKinney to roam and make more impact plays. Names like Texas’ Alfred Collins and USC’s Bear Alexander have surfaced as draft targets to complement McKinney’s skill set.
Fanbase Reaction
Packers fans are torn. Some took to X to defend McKinney, with one writing, “Xavier doesn’t need an award to prove he’s elite. Those picks saved us games!” Others acknowledge the uphill battle, noting, “Love X, but DPOY is Watt’s to lose. We just need a ring.” The sentiment reflects pride in McKinney’s contributions but realism about his award prospects.
For now, McKinney’s focus shifts to the offseason, where he’s expected to refine his game under Hafley’s scheme. While the Defensive Player of the Year dream may be fading for 2025, his role as Green Bay’s defensive heartbeat remains unchallenged. With a talented young roster and draft picks in hand, the Packers are banking on McKinney to lead them closer to a Super Bowl, award or no award.
