Keisean Nixon has seen his role in the Green Bay Packers' defense increase in each of his three seasons with the team. After playing just 28 percent of the defensive snaps in 2022, that number jumped to 73 percent in 2023 and 94 percent last season.
While Nixon has been named a first-team All-Pro twice since joining Green Bay for his work as a kick returner, he was productive with the increased defensive role in 2024. Nixon posted a 64.5 PFF grade, which ranked 86th out of 222 cornerbacks.
Following the departure of two-time All-Pro cornerback Jaire Alexander, Nixon is listed as the top cornerback on the Packers' depth chart. With that comes added pressure.
Packers CB Keisean Nixon labeled as player under the most pressure
Nixon entered the league as a seldom-used cornerback with the then-Oakland Raiders. He has continued to improve and finally became a full-time starter in 2024, his sixth season in the league.
With Alexander gone, Nixon needs to step up. Rob Demovsky of ESPN picked Nixon as the player under the most pressure, writing:
"He said after last season that he wanted to be a No. 1 CB. Now that Jaire Alexander is gone, Nixon might get that chance. Sure, the Packers signed Nate Hobbs in free agency, and defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley plays a high amount of zone coverage, but Nixon will be counted on to shut down opposing receivers. The question is, can he deliver?"
Nixon is coming off the best season of his career, as he recorded 88 total tackles, 61 solo tackles, eight tackles for loss, 3.0 sacks, six quarterback hits, one interception, three forced fumbles, and seven passes defended. He will need to be even better in 2025 if Green Bay wants to remain among the best defenses in the league.
Furthermore, from a personal standpoint, a big season could go a long way for the undrafted free agent in the 2019 NFL Draft. Nixon has just two years remaining on his contract. He is just 28 years old, and if the veteran can prove that he is capable of being a top cornerback in 2025, Green Bay could be motivated to give him an extension following the season.