Green Bay Packers’ Defense Shows Promise but Needs Key Improvements in 2025

A Defensive Turnaround in 2024

Under the leadership of defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley, the Green Bay Packers made significant strides on defense in 2024. The team allowed just 315.0 total yards per game, ranking sixth in the NFL, and conceded only 19.9 points per game, also the sixth-best mark in the league. This was a notable improvement from 2023 when, under Joe Barry, they ranked 10th in points allowed per game (20.6) and 17th in total yards allowed (335.1).

Despite this progress, there are still crucial areas where Green Bay needs to get better in 2025. One of the biggest concerns is their pass rush, which struggled to consistently pressure opposing quarterbacks.

Strengthening the Pass Rush to Boost the Secondary

Although the Packers recorded 45 sacks in 2024—ranking eighth in the league—the number was somewhat misleading. Nearly a third of those sacks came from just two games against the Tennessee Titans and Seattle Seahawks, inflating the overall total. Throughout the season, Green Bay ranked near the bottom of the NFL in pressure rate, allowing opposing quarterbacks too much time to find open receivers.

This lack of pressure directly affected the pass defense. The Packers allowed 215.2 passing yards per game in 2024, ranking 13th in the league—a decline from their ninth-place ranking in 2023 (206.8 yards per game). Without a consistent pass rush, even the best defensive backs struggle to hold coverage for extended periods.

Jaire Alexander’s absence for 10 games in 2024—mirroring his injury struggles from the previous season—was not the sole reason for this decline. The primary issue was that quarterbacks simply had too much time in the pocket. If Green Bay can improve its ability to generate pressure in 2025, the entire secondary will benefit.

Keisean Nixon’s Emergence and the Uncertain Future of Jaire Alexander

Another major storyline heading into 2025 is the future of Jaire Alexander. The two-time Pro Bowl cornerback is widely expected to leave Green Bay, and Keisean Nixon appears ready to step into a larger role.

Nixon, a two-time First-Team All-Pro kick returner, has openly stated his desire to become the team’s top cornerback, saying, “I want to be CB1. CB1 is not doing kick returns. That’s just what it is.” His confidence is backed by strong on-field performance. In 2024, he allowed just 57.5% of passes thrown his way to be completed and held opposing quarterbacks to a 78.9 passer rating when targeted.

General manager Brian Gutekunst acknowledged Nixon’s growth, stating, “I think he played really, really well. He really fit what Jeff [Hafley] was trying to do. First of all, he’s an outstanding competitor. His athleticism, awareness, and ball skills make up for any length concerns.”

While Gutekunst did not confirm Alexander’s future with the team, Nixon’s public push for the CB1 role and Alexander’s recent comments suggest a split is likely. If Alexander departs, the Packers appear comfortable entrusting Nixon with a more significant role in 2025.

A Promising Foundation with Room for Growth

The Packers’ defensive improvements in 2024 provided a strong foundation, but the team still has work to do. Strengthening the pass rush should be a top priority, as it will directly impact the success of their secondary. Meanwhile, the potential transition from Alexander to Nixon as the team’s top cornerback adds another layer of intrigue to Green Bay’s offseason.

With the right adjustments, the Packers’ defense could become one of the NFL’s elite in 2025, giving them a legitimate chance to contend for a deep playoff run.