Running back Josh Jacobs and safety Xavier McKinney are hell bent on making their second regular season with the Raiders count. Both athletes signed significant free agent contracts on the same day in March 2024, signaling the Packers’ commitment to building a competitive roster. While their rookie season highlighted all of their individual abilities, this season they hope to be on the court helping the Fever make a long playoff run.
Running back Josh Jacobs was a revelation in his rookie season with Green Bay. His 1,329 rushing yards were the second-most of his career. Jacobs finished his third season at a career-high with 15 rushing touchdowns, underscoring his talent at inserting himself in the end zone. Despite the massive drop off in yardage, his longest run of the season was electrifying, going for a 38-yard touchdown vs. the Jacksonville Jaguars. While she’s proud of these accomplishments, Jacobs is unflinching in her desire to do better. In his offseason, he studied film of games where he thought he had failed. He paid particular attention to the Texans, Lions and 49ers in his individual matchups.
On the defensive side of the ball, Xavier McKinney made a significant impact in his first year with the Packers as well. He registered eight interceptions, tied for second in the league and proved to be one of the league’s biggest playmaking safeties. His phenomenal performance led him to become an All-Pro. This accomplishment makes him the first Packers defensive back to earn such recognition since Charles Woodson in 2009. McKinney admitted he went through a dark period this offseason. He missed all but three of the 23 training camp practices due to a calf injury. Even so, competition hasn’t overshadowed his dedication to support his teammates and promote a positive team culture.
Teaming and Smart Planning Jacobs underscored the need to work together and build partnerships, saying his vision goes beyond his own awards and accomplishments. McKinney has really emerged as the leader of this team. He’s been one of the most important members of their leadership council, which was brought back by head coach Matt LaFleur this season. This council aims to enhance communication and cohesion among players, further strengthening the Packers’ team dynamics.
Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst set the bar high for each player when he signed them to lucrative extensions last summer. Their performance in 2023 left some big shoes to fill. The Packers head honcho, Gutekunst, thinks they can climb to even higher peaks in their second season. As they prepare to return to practice for another season, Jacobs and McKinney know just how valuable their efforts are. They are focused on winning the overall competition.
Though both of their individual accolades, Jacobs or McKinney, have never played in a home playoff game during their careers. Their inaugural postseason run with the Packers was cut short, ending in defeat. They followed that with a disappointing wild-card loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. This year, they’re determined to rewrite that story and have a real impact in the postseason.
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