Why Brian Baldinger Believes Xavier McKinney Could Be the Packers’ Game-Changer This Season

Ever wonder what it feels like to see the Green Bay Packers suddenly throw the playbook out the window and start making moves that actually shock the league? Yeah, me too. For decades, the Packers front office was the poster child for playing it safe—no flashy trades, no blockbuster signings, just the steady grind. But something’s shifted. Cue Xavier McKinney, the savvy safety who’s become the defensive glue the Packers didn’t know they were missing. Paired with Micah Parsons and a surprisingly fierce cornerback crew, this revamped defense is turning heads in ways even the most die-hard fans never saw coming. So, what made McKinney the perfect puzzle piece for a defense now ranked number one early in the season? Let’s dive into why Brian Baldinger can’t stop singing his praises—and why this new Packers regime might just be onto something spectacular.

GREEN BAY, WISCONSIN - OCTOBER 13: Xavier McKinney #29 of the Green Bay Packers participates in warmups prior to a game against the Arizona Cardinals at Lambeau Field on October 13, 2024 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. The Packers defeated the Cardinals 34-13. — (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)

The Green Bay Packers‘ front office has surprised fans over the past two seasons.

Historically, this is not a team that makes big trades or grandiose free-agent signings, but the Packers have seemingly shifted their mindset.

Trading for Micah Parsons was not only a surprise but, by many accounts, a league-altering decision, one that the Packers of yesteryear wouldn’t have considered.

Their change of heart dates back to before the 2024 season, as they also made a move to acquire safety Xavier McKinney in free agency, a player who has improved their downfield presence.

Analyst Brian Baldinger talked about this signing in a recent video he shared on X, noting what a strong move this was and has been for the Packers.

“The free safety for the Packers is Xavier McKinney. He’s a perfect fit for how they play. McKinney plays perfect centerfield. That’s his ninth interception in 20 starts for the Packers. He had nine in his first four years with the Giants. He’s a perfect fit for what they want in the middle of the field with this defense. Oh, by the way, the number one defense in the NFL right now through three weeks,” Baldinger said.

.@packers free safety, Xavier Mckinney, is a perfect fit for how the #GoPackGo wanna play defense. 9 INT's in 20 starts. #BaldysBreakdowns pic.twitter.com/GXa5JNh2Oi

— Brian Baldinger (@BaldyNFL) September 24, 2025

The Packers are an organization with a lot of history and success, and they’ve had countless players throughout the years who have turned out to be all-time greats.

While McKinney might have a way to go to get that distinction, he certainly gets recognition as being one of the best safeties in the game.

This, paired with the Packers’ surprisingly strong cornerback room, has their defense in a better spot than even the most optimistic fan could have predicted.

Parsons was the big splash this year, of course, but players like McKinney are equally important to help the team’s cause down the field against the elite receivers around the league.

The post Brian Baldinger Raves About Xavier McKinney’s Fit With Packers appeared first on The Cold Wire.