NFL Analysis Proposes for Packers to Cut 2-Time Pro Bowler

   

The Green Bay Packers are facing mounting pressure to make a difficult decision regarding two-time Pro Bowl cornerback Jaire Alexander. After injuries limited him to just 14 games over the past two seasons, analysts suggest that releasing Alexander post-June 1 could provide the financial flexibility the team needs to address other roster concerns.

Cutting Alexander would save the Packers $17 million in immediate cap space, a significant relief for a team looking to strengthen its depth. While the cornerback remains immensely talented, his inability to stay healthy has raised concerns about his long-term value. Green Bay has reportedly considered restructuring his contract, but no agreement has been reached.

Green Bay Packers, Jaire Alexander
Oct 27, 2024; Jacksonville, Florida, USA; Green Bay Packers defensive back Jaire Alexander (23) defends a pass intended for Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Parker Washington (11) during the fourth quarter at EverBank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Melina Myers-Imagn Images

Trade options were explored during the NFL Draft, but the Packers were unable to find a suitable deal for the 28-year-old. With younger players like rookie Micah Robinson and Carrington Valentine ready to step into larger roles, Green Bay may lean toward moving on from Alexander rather than continuing to carry his $24.6 million cap hit. This shift would align with the team’s focus on building a sustainable, younger roster.

 

 

 

The decision to release Alexander would not come without risk. His playmaking ability, evidenced by two interceptions in just seven games last season, could be a major asset for another team. However, the Packers must weigh his potential contributions against the opportunity to allocate resources elsewhere.

NFL Analysis Urges Green Bay Packers to Cut Jaire Alexander

Green Bay Packers, Jaire Alexander
Sep 15, 2024; Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA; Green Bay Packers cornerback Jaire Alexander (23) during the game against the Indianapolis Colts at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images

Green Bay may get to get a solution for Alexander if it gets to cut him. This is detailed more in an analysis by Alex Kay for Bleacher Report.

While the franchise brass has reportedly put a restructured deal on the table for the 2018 first-round pick, he hasn’t been amenable to it. He still has two years remaining on the then-record four-year, $84 million extension he signed in 2022, a deal agreed to ahead of his second and most recent Pro Bowl campaign.

Injuries have been the unfortunate story of his career since 2023, though, and he has suited up for just 14 of a possible 34 games in that span.

Given Alexander also missed 13 games in 2021, it’s time for Green Bay to move on and get a fresh start with younger, healthier backups such as rookie Micah Robinson and Carrington Valentine stepping into bigger roles.

Green Bay fans are divided on the matter, with some advocating for patience while others endorse a hard reset in the secondary. The organization faces a tough balancing act between honoring Alexander’s past contributions and securing their future.

Green Bay Packers, Jaire Alexander
Green Bay Packers cornerback Jaire Alexander (23) runs through a drill during practice on Thursday, August 8, 2024, at Ray Nitschke Field in Ashwaubenon, Wis.
Tork Mason/USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin

As training camp looms, the Packers’ decision on Alexander will have a lasting impact on their defensive identity. Whether they choose to release, trade, or retain him, their approach will signal how they plan to navigate the challenges of the upcoming season.

Green Bay Packers, Jaire Alexander
Green Bay Packers cornerback Jaire Alexander (23) tosses the ball to himself during the eighth practice of training camp on Wednesday, July 31, 2024, at Ray Nitschke Field in Ashwaubenon, Wis.
Tork Mason/USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin