GREEN BAY – Packers safety Xavier McKinney has been ranked No. 30 in the <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/”>NFL Top 100 Players list for 2025, marking the first time in his six-year career that he has appeared on the player-voted list. His exceptional 2024 campaign secured this recognition, highlighting his impact with the Green Bay Packers.
Remarkable Transition and 2024 Achievements
After signing with the Packers as a free agent last year following four seasons with the New York Giants, McKinney quickly became a defensive cornerstone. In 2024, he earned first-team All-Pro honors and was selected to his first Pro Bowl after notching a career-high eight interceptions, ranking second across the NFL. This impressive performance demonstrated his ability to adapt and excel with his new team.
Historic Interception Streak and Franchise Records
McKinney’s eight interceptions included an unprecedented feat: snagging a pick in each of the Packers’ first five games of the season. This streak was a franchise first for a player’s initial five games with Green Bay and the NFL’s first such streak since the 1970 merger for a player’s debut with a team. The five-game interception run also tied a team record previously set by Irv Comp in 1943. Additionally, McKinney recorded the highest number of interceptions by a Packers defender since Hall of Famer Charles Woodson’s nine interceptions in 2009.
Impact Beyond Interceptions and Teammate Recognition
Beyond interceptions, McKinney amassed 128 interception return yards, ranking second in the league and setting a new benchmark for Packers defenders since Charlie Peprah’s 147 return yards in 2011. His outstanding season earned respect from alongside teammates Josh Jacobs, who was ranked No. 33, Jordan Love at No. 68, and Rashan Gary at No. 80 on the 2025 Top 100 Players list.
Significance of McKinney’s Rising Profile in the NFL
McKinney’s rise to No. 30 in the NFL Top 100 not only spotlights his personal growth as a safety but also underscores the Packers’ strengthening defense. His 2024 performance lays a solid foundation for continued success and leadership within the team, promising an influential role in the Packers’ future seasons and the league’s competitive landscape.