Eagles cornerback Jaire Alexander has stepped away from football to focus on his mental and physical health, a person with knowledge of the situation confirmed to NJ Advance Media.
Fox Sports insider Jay Glazer broke the news on Tuesday night.
The Eagles acquired Alexander and a 2027 seventh-round pick from the Baltimore Ravens last Saturday for a 2026 sixth-round pick. Many expected Alexander to compete for starting snaps at Philadelphia’s second cornerback spot and improve the secondary’s overall depth.
Alexander didn’t travel for the Eagles’ victory over the Green Bay Packers on Monday night, with the team listing the reason as a knee injury/coach’s decision. The Eagles wanted him to focus on his recovery and prepare for the rest of the season.
It was the same approach the team had when defensive end Brandon Graham returned from retirement before Week 8 and didn’t play that week against the New York Giants.
Considering that was the expectation, Alexander’s decision comes as a surprise.
Just a few years ago, Alexander was one of the best cornerbacks in the NFL, but injuries have taken a toll on his performance. He has missed 34 games in the last four years due to shoulder, knee and groin issues.
Alexander was a healthy scratch in five games for the Ravens this season. He allowed five catches for 116 yards in two appearances.
The Eagles will move forward with Adoree’ Jackson as their starting CB2. He played well against the Packers, allowing four receptions on six targets for just 23 yards, per Pro Football Focus.
If Alexander decides not to retire, he could return to the Eagles later in the season. But he might have also played his last snap in the NFL before ever taking a snap for Philadelphia’s defense.
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