A healthy Jaire Alexander is undeniably one of the premier cornerbacks in the NFL. Yet, staying healthy has been a challenge—he missed 34 of the Green Bay Packers 68 games in recent seasons. His future was the most significant question mark for the Packers this offseason. Then, on Monday, NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport reported that Green Bay would release the two-time All-Pro cornerback.
Despite missing significant time last year, Alexander remained a productive cornerback when on the field. He allowed only a 56% completion rate, recorded two interceptions—including a pick-six—and notched seven pass breakups. Still, he would carry the third-largest cap hit on the team in 2025. With no guarantees he would stay healthy moving forward, Green Bay had little chance of keeping such a costly player on their roster.
Green Bay made Alexander’s release official on Monday afternoon and included a three-word message on their X account alongside the announcement.
Former Green Bay Packers CB Jaire Alexander (23) reacts after intercepting a pass during the first quarter of the wild card playoff game against the Dallas Cowboys.
Former Green Bay Packers CB Jaire Alexander (23) reacts after intercepting a pass during the first quarter of the wild card playoff game against the Dallas Cowboys.
© Mark Hoffman / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK
"Thank you, Jaire" the Packers wrote.
Packers General Manager Brian Gutekunst issued a statement following the official announcement of Alexander’s release.
"In his 7 seasons with the Packers, Jaire established himself as one of the premier players in the NFL at one of the game's most challenging positions," Gutekunst said. "His contributions to our organization were felt on the field, in the locker room and in our community, and he will be missed."
Green Bay’s cornerback group and defense held up well without Alexander and should get even better with Nate Hobbs joining the team. Plus, the Packers now have the third-most cap space in the NFL, which is a considerable advantage considering six starters could potentially become unrestricted free agents next year.
As for Alexander, he should have a strong market. He turns 29 in February but still has plenty of football ahead. According to reports, Green Bay held trade discussions early in the offseason with the Buffalo Bills regarding the two-time All-Pro, though nothing materialized. Still, the best scenario for the Packers now is for Alexander to join a contender in the AFC—keeping him far from their path to the Super Bowl.