Xavier McKinney keeps Packers’ Kyler Murray advantage under wraps

Xavier McKinney is aware that the Green Bay Packers could have an advantage when they face Kyler Murray, thanks to Jonathan Gannon’s previous experience with the quarterback. Still, McKinney is keeping whatever information Green Bay has to itself as the team prepares for its NFC North opener against the Vikings.

Gannon spent considerable time working with Murray in Arizona, giving him a strong understanding of the quarterback’s tendencies and playing style. McKinney acknowledged that Green Bay could benefit from that familiarity, but he made it clear that Gannon would not be sharing those details with Minnesota.

“Yeah he has, but I ain’t gonna display what he’s told us,” commented the Packers safety.

Kyler Murray has the ability to turn broken plays into big gains, making him difficult to contain once he escapes the pocket. Green Bay will need to maintain its rush lanes, communicate effectively in coverage, and rely on McKinney’s instincts to limit Murray’s ability to create outside the structure of the offense.

Nov 23, 2025; Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA; Green Bay Packers linebacker Isaiah McDuffie (58) celebrates a second half interception with safety Javon Bullard (20) and safety Xavier McKinney (29) against the Minnesota Vikings in the game at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Wm. Glasheen-USA TODAY Network via Imagn Images

McKinney is entering his seventh NFL season and has become one of the key leaders on Green Bay’s defense. Since arriving with the Packers in 2024, the 27-year-old safety has made a major impact, recording 10 interceptions over his first two seasons with the team. He followed that up with 107 tackles in 2025, further establishing his importance to the defense.

Jan 12, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Green Bay Packers safety Xavier McKinney (29) before action against the Philadelphia Eagles in an NFC wild card game at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

As a team captain, McKinney now carries an even bigger leadership role as Green Bay looks to contend for a championship. His ability to read Murray, react to his movements, and keep the secondary organized could be especially important against Minnesota. Gannon may know what to expect from the quarterback, but McKinney and the rest of the Packers defense will have to put that knowledge into action on the field.

Aug 21, 2026; Denver, Colorado, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love (10) during in the first quarter of a preseason game against the Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images