Keisean Nixon Has Solidified the Packers’ Secondary

Once known as an All-Pro returner, Keisean Nixon has long waited for the chance to prove himself as a starting cornerback. Now, he’s finally getting a major opportunity—and making the most of it.

Nixon’s Path to Green Bay

Nixon entered the league in 2018 as an undrafted free agent out of South Carolina. He signed with the Raiders, but never saw more than 155 defensive snaps in any of his three seasons there. 

The Packers picked him up before the 2022 season on a one-year, $965,000 deal. While he quickly became a star in the return game, he also began to earn steady defensive reps.

By 2023, Nixon’s role expanded significantly. He logged 937 defensive snaps, including 633 in coverage, showing enough growth for Green Bay to re-sign him to a three-year, $18 million contract with $6.5 million guaranteed.

In his first season under the new deal, he allowed 57 receptions on 86 targets for five touchdowns, while recording one interception and six pass breakups. Opposing quarterbacks posted a passer rating of 97.5 when targeting him.

The numbers may not scream “elite,” but they reflect steady improvement and the potential to take the next step as a true lockdown corner.

Strong Start in Week 1

Nixon opened the 2025 season lined up on the outside against one of the league’s most explosive offenses, the Detroit Lions. He allowed four catches on four targets for 42 yards, though without a minor defensive mistake, that total could have been under 30 yards.

Elite Numbers in Week 2

In Week 2, Nixon took his game to another level. Against Washington, Nixon tied a franchise record for the most pass breakups in a single game with five.

He broke up five passes and allowed zero completions on five targets–elite.

“The ball was just coming my way. I usually don’t get that many targets in a game, but I was in my zone,” Nixon said after Green Bay’s 27-18 win. “I knew what I can do and what I’m capable of—but you all are just understanding it now.”