Packers All-Pro KR Keisean Nixon Says He's 'Over' Returner Role amid NFL Rule Changes
January 13, 2025
Green Bay Packers cornerback Keisean Nixon also excels as the team's return specialist, but he's no longer interested in performing double duties going forward.
After the Packers' 22-10 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFC Wild Card Round on Sunday, Nixon made it clear that he doesn't want to be used as a return specialist anymore.
"I'm kind of over it," Nixon during Monday's exit interviews, per The Athletic's Matt Schneidman. "I don't really want to do it no more. There's going to be talks with the coaching staff and stuff like that, but I think it's over with for me."
"I want to be CB1," he added. "CB1 is not doing kick returns. That's just what it is."
Nixon recorded career highs of 88 total tackles, seven passes defended, three sacks and three forced fumbles while also adding an interception this season, so perhaps he should have his wishes granted. Still, it's hard to overlook his skills as a returner.
Nixon was named first-team All-Pro in 2022 and 2023 after leading the NFL in kick return yards in both seasons. This year, he ranked sixth in the league.
Despite his prowess at the position, Nixon committed a major blunder in Sunday's game when he lost a fumble on the opening kickoff, leading to a quick touchdown for the Eagles. The Packers were unable to fight back from the early deficit.
With Nixon going public about his feelings, it would be a surprise if he's still deployed as a returner for Green Bay in 2025, but he will need to back up his declarations about being the team's No. 1 cornerback.
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