GREEN BAY, Wis. -- Josh Jacobs and Xavier McKinney, two standout players for the Green Bay Packers, are not resting on their laurels after a successful debut season. Both players made the Pro Bowl in 2024, but they are driven by a desire to achieve even more in their second year with the team.

Josh Jacobs: Reflecting on Missed Opportunities

For Josh Jacobs, the three-time Pro Bowl running back, his first season with the Packers was marked by impressive stats: 1,329 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns. However, it’s the plays that got away that stick in his mind. "I had some plays where I felt like I kinda gave up on the play because I thought the play was over, and it really wasn't," Jacobs said. He’s focused on turning those 5-yard runs into 15-yard gains and pushing himself to think differently on the field.

Xavier McKinney: Setting the Standard

Xavier McKinney, the Packers' All-Pro safety, is equally motivated. Despite earning All-Pro honors and recording eight interceptions last season, McKinney is focused on elevating his teammates. "Something I'm trying to do even more than I did last year is just trying to help elevate everybody and set the standard," McKinney said. His leadership was evident during training camp, where he emphasized the importance of maintaining high standards, even while recovering from a calf injury.

The Road Ahead: Bigger Goals for Year 2

Both players agree that their second season with the Packers will be judged by how far they can take the team. "Only way we can really follow it up is by going farther than we did last year and being better than we were last year," Jacobs said. The Packers’ 11-6 record last season was a step in the right direction, but the team struggled in the NFC North, winning only one of their six division games.

Leadership Roles

Packers coach Matt LaFleur has recognized the leadership qualities of both players, reinstating the leadership council and appointing Jacobs and McKinney as representatives for their respective position groups. "First of all, everybody respects their body of work," LaFleur said. "It's got to be more than just action."

Focusing on the Little Things

Jacobs spent the offseason studying his misses rather than his hits, identifying areas for improvement. He recalled specific plays against the Texans, Lions, and 49ers where he felt he could have done more. "You can't lie to yourself," Jacobs said. "At the end of the day, you look at yourself in the mirror and you know."

As the Packers prepare for their season opener against the Detroit Lions, Jacobs and McKinney are determined to lead by example and push their team to new heights.