The Green Bay Packers are parting ways with cornerback Jaire Alexander. The NFL Network initially reported the release of the two-time Pro Bowler, which the Packers confirmed on Monday.
Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst praised Alexander’s seven-year tenure, highlighting his status as one of the NFL’s best at a tough position. He emphasized Alexander’s impact not only on the field but also in the team’s locker room and community.
In an interview with local Green Bay station Wbay, Packers president and CEO Mark Murphy described Alexander as “an elite talent” but noted he has been “injured.”
Alexander’s decline is notable given his high draft status and strong performance when healthy. He was a key player for the team, earning a second Pro Bowl nod in 2022, but injuries have severely limited his playtime in recent years. In 2023, back and shoulder issues restricted him to seven games, and knee problems in 2024 also kept him sidelined for much of the season.
Before his injuries, Alexander was considered one of the NFL’s top cornerbacks. After a strong rookie season in 2018, he started every game in 2019 and earned his first Pro Bowl selection in 2020, also making second team All-Pro. Although a shoulder injury cut his 2021 season short, he bounced back in 2022 to play all 16 games and again made the Pro Bowl and second team All-Pro.
Alexander signed a four-year, $84 million contract extension in 2022, with a salary over $16 million scheduled for 2025. However, it seems he was not interested in continuing with that deal, which played a part in his release.
In the seasons where Alexander played at least ten games, he earned Pro Bowl honors, making him a valuable asset for NFL teams. As a 28-year-old now entering free agency, he may have to accept a short-term contract due to his recent injury history. If he can regain his health and form, Alexander might secure a larger contract next season.
Fan Take: This move marks the end of an era for the Packers as they lose one of their top defensive stars. For NFL fans, Alexander’s release underscores how injuries can dramatically alter a player’s career trajectory and impact team dynamics across the league.
