Keisean Nixon has become a key player for the Green Bay Packers, excelling on defense and special teams. But his dual role is still evolving as the team figures out how to use him. With Nixon’s defensive role expanding and him wanting to step back from kick returns, the Packers are looking for the right balance to get the most out of him.
Here’s a closer look at Nixon’s journey and what’s next for the do-it-all star.
The Debate Over Nixon’s Kick-Return Role
Nixon’s Postseason Comments
After the Packers’ playoff loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, Nixon told reporters he didn’t want to be a kick returner anymore. He cited the physical toll of returning kicks after long defensive drives and maybe the uncalled helmet-to-helmet hit he took on the opening kickoff of that game. Though medically cleared to return immediately, the impact of those hits can linger when you’re playing full time defense.
Gutekunst’s Perspective
Despite Nixon’s comments, Gutekunst said the Packers still view him as their best kick returner. But he acknowledged they need to protect Nixon with his increased defensive workload.
“I don’t think he doesn’t want to,” Gutekunst said of Nixon’s return role. “He’s pretty good at it and he’s gotten a lot of awards because of it. I’d like to have multiple options there but obviously he played a lot of defense for us last year. We’re proud of how he stepped up.”
So maybe they bring in other returners to share the load and keep Nixon for high leverage situations.
Nixon’s Breakout Defensive Season
From Slot to Boundary Corner
Nixon’s defensive role expanded in 2024 for two reasons:
- Rookie Javon Bullard emerging as a reliable slot/nickel corner.
- Jaire Alexander injuries opening up opportunities on the boundary.
In his 15 starts last season, Nixon faced opponents’ top wide receivers almost every week—a challenge he relished. He proved he could handle it.
“He’s a competitor,” Gutekunst said. “Didn’t flinch when we asked him to do that.”
Career-Best Numbers
Nixon’s career highs across the board in 2024:
- 88 tackles
- 8 tackles for loss
- 3 sacks
- 6 QB hits
- 7 passes defensed
- 3 forced fumbles
He also had his third consecutive interception, picking off Jared Goff of Detroit—one of the league’s best quarterbacks. His previous interception was against Patrick Mahomes of Kansas City—showing he can rise to the occasion.
Overcoming Size Issues
At 5-10, 200, Nixon is a bit small for an outside corner. But his athleticism, tackling and football IQ make up for it.
“For me, he may not have the length of some of those guys on the outside, but his awareness and ball skills make up for that,” Gutekunst said.
Why Nixon is Unreplaceable
A Perfect Fit for Hafley’s Scheme
Defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley has built his system around Nixon’s skills. His ability to read QBs, anticipate routes and tackle is huge. Plus his blitzing ability is valuable no matter where he lines up on the field.
“He’s athletic and can read QBs with his eyes and tackle for us,” Gutekunst said.
Leadership and Competitiveness
Nixon’s bulldog mentality attacks every assignment whether it’s covering elite receivers or returning kicks. There’s no backing down and his willingness to take on new challenges has earned him respect in the organization.
What’s Next for Nixon in 2025
While the details are still being worked out, one thing is for sure: he’s a cornerstone of the defense. Whether he’s back as the primary KR or shares those duties, he’ll be a big part of the team.
If Jaire Alexander is traded, Nixon could be the No. 1 corner. Even if Alexander stays, Nixon’s expanded responsibilities on the boundary means he’ll be a big part of the secondary.
FAQs About Keisean Nixon’s Role with the Packers
Why does Nixon want to stop returning kicks?
Nixon feels the physical toll of returning kicks after long defensive series and an uncalled helmet hit in the playoffs may have changed his perspective.
Will Nixon continue as a kick returner in 2025?
He’ll probably still be a returner but the Packers will bring in other options to reduce his workload and protect him for defensive duties.
How did Nixon perform defensively in 2024?
He had a breakout year with career highs in tackles, sacks, QB hits, passes defensed and forced fumbles. He also picked off Jared Goff. Third straight year with a pick.
Can Nixon be a No. 1 cornerback?
Yes, he’s already shown he can handle top receiver matchups. If Jaire leaves he’s a top candidate to be the #1.
What makes Nixon so valuable to the Packers?
His versatility, competitiveness and ability to excel in multiple roles (returning kicks, blitzing or covering receivers) makes him a must have for the defense.
