Packers grades for biggest free agency moves including Josh Jacobs signing

3. Re-signing Keisean Nixon

The Green Bay Packers have gotten their money's worth out of defensive back/return specialist Keisean Nixon.

Nixon seemingly stumbled into an All-Pro season as a return specialist in 2022 as a low-budget free-agent signing. His role expanded defensively in 2023 as the Packers had injury issues at cornerback as well as trading Rasul Douglas to the Buffalo Bills.

Nixon played more snaps in 2023 defensively (809) than any of his previous NFL seasons combined. And with two All-Pro seasons as a return man to his name along with a lot of experience playing in the slot, the Packers decided to reward him with his biggest NFL contract to date.

Nixon received a three-year deal from Green Bay with $18 million in total money. When you see contracts being given out to nickel/slot players around the NFL, you can't help but wonder how NFL teams can get away with it at times. Outside corners barely play more snaps these days than slot guys, and slot players are arguably asked to do more.

Yet they get paid less.

There's absolutely zero issue with Nixon getting $6 million average annual value, and frankly, with his combination of contributions as a corner and return man, it's well worth the price for Green Bay. This move isn't going to make national headlines, but it's a good one.

Grade: B