Xavier McKinney, a talented safety from Auburn University, was selected by the Green Bay Packers in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft. In this article, we will explore how the Packers managed to acquire him and what factors contributed to their success.
The Packers’ Draft Strategy
The Packers have a long history of success in the draft, particularly in recent years. They have consistently selected players who have gone on to make an impact in the NFL. In the 2020 draft, the team had several needs, including at safety. The Packers’ draft strategy was to select players with upside and potential, rather than reaching for proven talent. This approach allowed them to accumulate a large number of picks and build depth throughout their roster.
McKinney’s College Career
Xavier McKinney played college football at Auburn University, where he quickly made a name for himself as one of the best safeties in the country. In his three years at Auburn, he recorded 195 tackles, including 7.5 sacks and five interceptions. He was also named to the All-SEC first team in each of his three seasons and won the Jim Thorpe Award as the nation’s best defensive back in 2019.
The Packers’ Interest in McKinney
The Packers became interested in Xavier McKinney after watching him play in several college games during the 2019 season. They were particularly impressed with his ability to cover tight ends and running backs, as well as his physicality at the point of attack. The team also saw potential in his versatility, as he could play both safety and cornerback.
McKinney’s Draft Projection
Xavier McKinney was widely projected to be selected in the first round of the 2020 draft. Many analysts considered him to be one of the best safeties in the country, with some even predicting that he would go as high as the top five picks. However, his stock fell somewhat after a poor performance at the NFL Scouting Combine, where he recorded slower-than-expected times in several drills.
The Packers’ Selection of McKinney
Despite some concerns about his athleticism, the Packers selected Xavier McKinney with the 31st overall pick in the 2020 draft. They saw him as a player with upside and potential, and believed that he could be a valuable contributor to their defense. The team also viewed him as a versatile player who could play both safety and cornerback, which was particularly important given their need for depth at both positions.
McKinney’s Impact on the Packers
Xavier McKinney has had an immediate impact on the Packers’ defense. In his rookie season, he recorded 69 tackles and two interceptions, earning him a spot on the Pro Bowl. He also showed excellent versatility, playing both safety and cornerback throughout the season. The team’s success in the draft can be attributed to their ability to identify players with upside and potential, as well as their willingness to take risks on talented young athletes.
