Ex-Alabama Safety Gains NFL Respect Calls It Cool Yet Unexciting

Five games into the 2025 NFL season, Green Bay Packers safety Xavier McKinney has achieved one interception. This marks a significant decline compared to his five interceptions after the same number of games in 2024. Following his first-team All-Pro honor last season, opposing quarterbacks have begun to avoid targeting him on the field.

Xavier McKinney’s Perspective on NFL Respect

McKinney described the respect he receives from NFL quarterbacks as “cool, but it’s boring.” He elaborated that with the current style of play, opportunities to make impactful plays have diminished. “It’s become somewhat tedious back there,” he stated. “I’m working on finding ways to engage more and make plays.”

Performance Metrics

• Quarterbacks have targeted receivers covered by McKinney 14 times this season.
• These throws resulted in a passing efficiency rating of 49.4 against him.

With the addition of Micah Parsons to the Packers, McKinney noted that quarterbacks are opting for quicker throws due to the team’s aggressive pass rush. “We don’t have as many opportunities as last year, but we need to take advantage of the chances we get,” he commented. He emphasized the need for his team to remain alert for potential interceptions, particularly during deep throws.

Strategies for Increased Involvement

Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley mentioned that the coaching staff is focusing on getting McKinney more engaged in the game. “We’re trying to move him around,” Hafley said. “He has the ability to adjust his position on various plays. He enjoys roaming in the middle, which allows him to make more plays.”

Upcoming Game Against Arizona Cardinals

The Packers are entering their matchup against the Arizona Cardinals with a record of 3-1-1. The game is scheduled for 3:25 p.m. CDT on Sunday at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. Conversely, the Cardinals are struggling with a 2-4 record after suffering four consecutive defeats.

McKinney emphasized the importance of focusing on their own performance rather than the Cardinals’ recent losses. “We must control what we can control, execute our game plan, and not let their situation influence us,” he stated. “In this league, anything can happen on a Sunday, regardless of past results.”