The Packers released star cornerback Jaire Alexander, who has performed at an All-Pro level throughout his career but has played in just 14 games over the past two seasons due to injury. At 28 years old, the former first-round pick is certainly worth exploring now that he’s on the open market. These are five teams to watch as potential landing spots for Alexander.
Los Angeles Rams
Alexander’s name has almost certainly come up for the Rams after he was released—i.e., they’ve probably at least thought hard about adding him. Los Angeles is one of those teams that feel they can win it all this season, already bringing in All-Pro wide receiver Davante Adams (who called Alexander one of his favorite people). Obvious skill level aside, Alexander would bring additional attitude to the already-confident defense of the Rams at a position of relative weakness—but Jalen Ramsey is someone else to watch there.
Philadelphia Eagles
Many immediately connected the defending champions to Alexander, and it just feels like the type of move that could have people shaking their heads several months from now about how that was allowed to happen. Kelee Ringo, Adoree’ Jackson, and Eli Ricks are among those competing for a starting role on the outside next to Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean—and this is not to take away from them. But, again, Alexander has played at a very high level throughout his career and is worth the gamble.
Seattle Seahawks
There were some whispers about the Seahawks acquiring Jaire in a trade back in February, but that might have been more from the Packers’ side trying to get DK Metcalf. Still, Alexander forming a trio with Devon Witherspoon and Riq Woolen would bring immense upside to Mike Macdonald’s defense. Seattle’s been unafraid to bring in veterans, as displayed with quarterback Sam Darnold, pass rusher DeMarcus Lawrence, and receivers Cooper Kupp and Marquez Valdes-Scantling.
Minnesota Vikings
This might be the most intriguing landing spot after the battles—and, really, such an outstanding job done by the aggressive corner—between all-world receiver Justin Jefferson and Alexander in their NFC North matchups. Isaiah Rodgers was brought in this offseason and sounds like someone Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores is a major fan of, but Rodgers contributed as a reserve cornerback for the Eagles last year—along with plus value on special teams—and might not preclude Minnesota from bringing in Alexander.
Buffalo Bills
Buffalo reportedly discussed a trade for Alexander earlier this offseason, so don’t totally count them out. The team brought back former All-Pro Tre’Davious White and Dane Jackson before also drafting Kentucky cornerback Maxwell Hairston in Round 1—but corner is a spot you can never have enough depth, especially in a loaded AFC. I wouldn’t be surprised if the Chiefs and Ravens were also interested in Jaire; but the Bills make a ton of sense, as their depth helps alleviate concerns about Alexander’s durability.