Green Bay Packers cornerback Keisean Nixon sees big things ahead for rookie receiver Matthew Golden and a big jump from defensive back Javon Bullard entering Year 2.
Nixon, the defense’s No. 1 corner, has faced Golden, the team’s first-round pick, throughout the summer in 1-on-1s and 11-on-11. Their battles have helped the rookie pass-catcher earn the respect of the veteran cover man.
Nixon sees Golden as a “hell of a player” who has a big rookie year loading.
“The way he plays, attacks the game. Really strong hands,” Nixon said about Golden Tuesday. “You can tell why he went first round. Strong at the catch point, strong hands, strong upper body. So, I think he’ll have a really good year.”
Golden hauled in a long catch for a touchdown against the first-team defense during Tuesday’s practice. He’s consistently made a big play or two at training camp practices, and now Golden is entering the regular season as one of the top targets in the passing game.
In the secondary, Nixon can see the growth from Bullard, a 2024 second-round pick, at both of his primary positions — slot cornerback and safety.
“I think Bull’s taken a huge step this offseason,” Nixon said. “Not only playing nickel but also playing safety, communicating better…he’s grown a lot.”
Bullard has operated as the defense’s preferred option in the slot, but he’s now playing more safety with Xavier McKinney (calf) and Zayne Anderson (knee) dealing with injuries in training camp. He started his rookie season at safety next to McKinney but eventually ended up as the starter in the slot — highlighting his versatility.
The ever-confident Nixon didn’t just talk about teammates. He said he still wants to be a factor returning kicks and he wouldn’t mind traveling around following a No. 1 receiver.
Nixon has gone from an undrafted free agent to an All-Pro kickoff returner to a starting slot corner and now to No. 1 corner.
“Never let anyone put me in a box,” Nixon said. “I know confidently in myself and what I can do.”
The Packers are counting on Nixon to cover the team’s top receiver on most snaps.
“I’ve probably been slept on my whole career,” Nixon said. “I know what I bring to the table. I know my ability. I’ve been doing it…I did it in the slot playing nickel, I did it outside more last year, and now I only play corner. My resume is going to speak for itself.”
Hear more from Nixon below:
