The Green Bay Packers are working to finalize their cornerback room following their decision to part ways with veteran Jaire Alexander. The move came after the two sides failed to reach an agreement on a mutually beneficial contract. Ultimately, the Packers chose to release Alexander in June after one final meeting with GM Brian Gutekunst.
“Packers GM Brian Gutekunst met in person with CB Jaire Alexander on Sunday one last time, presumably giving him one last chance to restructure/reduce his contract and when he refused, Alexander was released from the team the next morning. Jaire has yet to comment this offseason,” Packers reporter Mike Clemens wrote.
According to Alexander’s father, the primary issue wasn’t the total money offered—it was the lack of guaranteed money. He felt the team’s stance was a sign of disrespect, especially considering Alexander’s contributions to the organization.
“To not have any guarantees in there was where we had the issue. It wasn't actually the dollar amount, it was the no guaranteed money," his father said. "It's kind of insulting to come to a two-time All-Pro, and somebody who gave blood, sweat, and tears to you, and to not have any guarantees."
Alexander recently shared a farewell message to the city of Green Bay. But the Packers’ main concern over his durability may already be proving valid, as he missed Monday’s practice with the Ravens due to injury.
“Ravens HC John Harbaugh said CB Jaire Alexander didn't practice Monday due to swelling in his knee. Alexander will have the knee drained and is expected to practice Tuesday. This is the exact type of scenario the Packers feared could unfold with Alexander,” NFL writer Jason B. Hirschhorn wrote.
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This is exactly the situation the Packers were trying to avoid by moving on from him. The silver lining for Green Bay is that the Ravens acquired Alexander at a much lower cost than what the Packers would have had to pay. If this pattern continues, it could signal a smart move by the Packers—and a potential red flag for Baltimore.