The Green Bay Packers face a challenging scenario heading into the 2025 NFL season, particularly in their defensive backfield. The safety position appears robust, anchored by All-Pro Xavier McKinney, alongside promising young talents Javon Bullard and Evan Williams. However, the cornerback lineup raises red flags, especially after the recent release of star player Jaire Alexander. The team has brought in Nate Hobbs from the Las Vegas Raiders and drafted Micah Robinson from Tulane, but both Hobbs and Keisean Nixon, the projected starters, lack significant experience on the field.

The need for reliable cornerbacks is pressing as the Packers strive to solidify their secondary. Hobbs and Nixon must rise to the occasion, especially considering the pressure from opposing offenses. The team’s strategy moving forward will focus on developing their younger players while maximizing the potential of their free-agent acquisitions. With the right adjustments, the Packers can hope to transform their defensive weaknesses into strengths by leveraging their depth in the safety position to support their corners.

The Green Bay Packers' defense showcased a remarkable turnaround in the 2024 season, achieving their best EPA per play statistics since the Super Bowl-winning squad of 2010. This performance includes top-10 rankings for both EPA per pass and rush, in addition to excelling in takeaways despite the absence of star cornerback Jaire Alexander for much of the season.

Key to this defensive resurgence was Jeff Hafley’s revitalization of the run defense, paired with the brilliant addition of safety Xavier McKinney. McKinney emerged as a potential MVP for the team, starting all 17 games and delivering impressive stats, including 88 tackles and 8 interceptions, which ultimately earned him First-Team All-Pro honors. The Packers allowed their second-lowest points per game since 2011, reflecting a robust defensive strategy that could significantly impact fantasy leagues.

The Green Bay Packers concluded the 2024 NFL season with impressive accolades, highlighting both individual and team achievements. Under head coach Matt LaFleur, they secured a playoff spot with an 11-6 record, showcasing dominant performances throughout the season. Notably, safety Xavier McKinney earned All-Pro honors, marking a significant achievement as he became the first Packers defensive back named to the All-Pro first team since Charles Woodson in 2009. McKinney's standout season included intercepting eight passes, contributing to three Pro Bowler selections alongside defensive end Rashan Gary and running back Josh Jacobs.

The Packers also had the distinction of two All-Rookie Team selections, emphasizing their successful draft class. The defensive roster was further praised for its contributions, with McKinney and Gary both making their Pro Bowl debuts. Jacobs continued to solidify his status as a top-tier running back, making his third Pro Bowl appearance, reflecting his consistent performance in the league.

The Green Bay Packers' defense faced challenges during the 2024 season as several players saw their performance decline in the latter half. Among them, safety Evan Williams started strong but struggled due to injuries, averaging just 58.3 PFF grade in his last seven games after beginning with an impressive 71.9. Similarly, Xavier McKinney's performance dipped, yet he remained one of the top defenders despite being targeted more often late in the season. Another player, Kingsley Enagbare, also experienced a drop in his PFF grade, reflecting a common trend of young players adjusting to longer seasons.