Packers' Keisean Nixon Out After Suffering Stinger Against Vikings

Green Bay Packers starting cornerback Keisean Nixon was forced to leave the field after suffering a stinger injury during the first quarter of the November 23, 2025 matchup against the Minnesota Vikings at Lambeau Field. The injury occurred when Nixon collided with a teammate on the sideline following a reception by Vikings receiver Justin Jefferson.

A stinger is a nerve injury to the neck or shoulder, common in contact sports like football. It typically causes sudden burning or stinging pain radiating down one arm, sometimes with numbness or weakness. Most stingers resolve quickly, but repeated injuries may require further medical evaluation. (Sports-Health)

Nixon was initially listed as questionable to return, but Fox's Pam Oliver reported before the third quarter that he would not be available for the second half. Nixon was seen with his pads back on, talking to trainers, and attempting to work through the injury during the second quarter. No official post-game update on Nixon's recovery or status was published as of November 23, 2025. For future updates, check the Packers' Injury Report.

Game Impact and Key Stats

Despite Nixon's absence, the Packers' defense performed strongly, helping secure a 17-6 victory over the Vikings. The defense held Minnesota to just 71 passing yards and 44 rushing yards. Packers running back Emanuel Wilson led the offense with 62 rushing yards and 2 touchdowns, while quarterback Jordan Love threw for 99 yards. (CBS Sports Box Score, ESPN Game Recap)

The win improved Green Bay's record to 6-3-1, while the Vikings fell to 4-6. Nixon's injury could impact the Packers' secondary depth in future games, but the defense managed well in this contest.

What is a Stinger Injury in Football?

A stinger, also known as a burner, is one of the most common injuries in football, particularly among defensive backs and cornerbacks like Keisean Nixon. The injury occurs when nerve fibers in the brachial plexus (the network of nerves running from the spinal cord to the shoulder, arm, and hand) are stretched or compressed during contact.

Symptoms typically include:

• Sharp burning or electric shock sensation down the arm
• Temporary numbness or tingling
• Weakness in the affected arm
• Limited range of motion

Most stinger injuries resolve within minutes to hours, though some players may need days or weeks to fully recover. Players are typically evaluated on the sideline and cleared only when full strength and sensation return.

Keisean Nixon's Role in the Packers Defense

Keisean Nixon has been a key contributor to the Green Bay Packers secondary in the 2025 NFL season. As a starting cornerback, Nixon is responsible for covering opposing team's top receivers, including elite players like Justin Jefferson. His absence from the lineup forces the Packers to rely on backup defensive backs, potentially exposing the defense to big plays.

Nixon's versatility also extends to special teams, where he has been a dynamic kick returner throughout his career. Any extended absence could impact both phases of the game for Green Bay.

NFL Injury Protocol and Return Timeline

The NFL has strict concussion and injury protocols to ensure player safety. For stinger injuries, players must:

• Demonstrate full strength in the affected limb
• Show complete range of motion
• Pass neurological assessments
• Be cleared by team medical staff

Return timelines vary based on severity. Minor stingers may allow return within the same game (as Nixon attempted), while more severe cases could sideline players for multiple weeks. The Packers will likely monitor Nixon throughout the week leading up to their next game.

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Sources:

• Packers.com Injury Report
• CBS Sports Box Score
• NFL.com Scores
• Sports-Health: Stinger Injury
• ESPN Game Recap

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