Green Bay Packers players who were part of an exciting NFC North divisional fight this past season may need to conclude training camp without All-Pro safety Xavier McKinney due to a calf injury, yet optimism still reigns within the squad for when 2025 kicks off.
Packers Hopeful for McKinney’s Return by Week 1 in 2025
After an impressive season where the Lions, Packers, and Vikings all advanced to the playoffs from the NFC North, Green Bay’s journey ended in a wildcard loss to the Eagles. Looking ahead, the Packers are focusing on their young talent pool, anticipating another solid run in the forthcoming season. Central to these plans is Xavier McKinney, who has been outstanding since joining the team but is currently dealing with a persistent calf issue. While this injury means he will miss the upcoming preseason games, the expectation is for McKinney to recuperate in time for the regular-season opener.
A Stellar First Year with Green Bay
McKinney was selected in the second round of the 2020 NFL draft by New York Giants but left after four seasons to sign with Green Bay Packers as free agent in 2023. In just his inaugural year with them he made waves, garnering first team All-Pro honors, Pro Bowl selection and close consideration in defensive player of the year competition; not to mention an astounding eight interceptions which put him near league leaderboard status!
Recovery and Team Impact
McKinney had participated in early week practice sessions but his calf injury has kept him sidelined, casting doubt upon his preseason participation. McKinney states he remains hopeful he can return at full strength for the start of regular season play; cornerback Nate Hobbs is recovering from knee surgery but expects to join McKinney on defense when the Packers launch their 2025 campaign. Their return would significantly bolster Green Bay Packers defense as it looks forward to an outstanding debut campaign in 2025.