Usually, cornerbacks play every or almost every defensive snap during a game. Differently from the defensive line, there is no rotation on the back end. Last week against the Seattle Seahawks, for example, Eric Stokes, Carrington Valentine, and Keisean Nixon all played at least 95% of the defensive snaps, and Robert Rochell was the only other cornerback to have a defensive snap — and that was it, one defensive snap.
But that approach can have a slight adjustment as soon as Jaire Alexander returns from the knee injury that has made him miss five games. It makes sense for the Packers to have Alexander back in these last three games of the regular season, even though the team has virtually clinched a playoff spot, to get his body back in action. At the same time, there's little reason to overload the star defender.
Especially without Javon Bullard, who has an ankle injury and will probably miss more time, the Packers are expected to solidify Keisean Nixon in the slot over the next few weeks. Alexander will be a primary option outside, but Stokes and Valentine can carry part of the load.
"It was great, it was really good," LaFleur said on Friday when asked about Jaire's practice participation.
Jaire Alexander was a full participant on Thursday and Friday. He has been practicing for three weeks, but it now certainly seems like he's getting real progress to be on the field in game action.
The Packers' priority should make Jaire Alexander as close to 100% as possible for the playoffs. Putting him on the field before the postseason is an important step, but there is no need to risk another aggravation.
Alexander hurt his knee on October 27 against the Jaguars. He tried to return against the Bears on November 17, but aggravated the issue. He has missed five of the last six games. This season, the former All-Pro cornerback has played only seven of the team's 14 games — he had already missed two games earlier in the season because of a groin injury.
