The New Orleans Saints could look to add a big-name cornerback to their secondary.
The Green Bay Packers have released superstar cornerback Jaire Alexander, and New Orleans could be a potential landing spot for the former All-Pro cornerback.
Former Green Bay Packers cornerback Jaire Alexander was released on June 9.
Former Green Bay Packers cornerback Jaire Alexander was released on June 9.
William Glasheen / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
The Saints have been busy adding to their secondary throughout the offseason. The team initially targeted former San Francisco 49ers cornerback Chavarius Ward before he signed a large deal with the Indianapolis Colts.
After missing out on Ward, New Orleans used their fourth-round draft selection on standout Louisville Cardinals cornerback Quincy Riley. The Saints weren't done there just yet, however, as the team brought in former Los Angeles Chargers standout Asante Samuel Jr. for a visit.
With New Orleans continuing to do their due diligence on free-agent cornerbacks, they'll likely take a look at Alexander. The former first-round pick has had a decorated career with the Packers, being named to two Pro Bowls and earning second-team All-Pro honors twice.
The Saints cornerback room is young and they have made it obvious they are not yet comfortable with the unit they have. Second-year cornerback Kool-Aid McKinstry is expected to take a large step up in 2025 and Alontae Taylor has been better in the slot than on the outside.
Dec 8, 2024; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New Orleans Saints cornerback Kool-Aid McKinstry (14) reacts after breaking up a pass intended for New York Giants wide receiver Malik Nabers (1) during the second quarter at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images
Dec 8, 2024; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New Orleans Saints cornerback Kool-Aid McKinstry (14) reacts after breaking up a pass intended for New York Giants wide receiver Malik Nabers (1) during the second quarter at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images
Brad Penner-Imagn Images
While New Orleans did add veteran Isaac Yiadom to a three-year deal earlier in the offseason, the $9 million salary over three years shows the team's measured approach to the former Saints' return.
Alexander signed a four-year $84 million contract with Green Bay in 2022 and will make the bulk of his salary in 2025 due to the large extension. The 28-year-old cornerback will likely earn a short-term prove-it deal when he signs with a team.
Although Alexander isn't expected to sign a large contract after his release, the Saints could use some of their newly acquired cap space after Derek Carr's retirement to sway the former All-Pro corner their way. After the retirement of Carr and veteran OL Ryan Ramcyzk, New Orleans holds around $30 million in cap space.
The Saints did a similar signing in 2024 with edge rusher Chase Young. New Orleans brought the former first-overall pick on with a one-year deal worth $13 million last offseason and Young impressed on his prove-it deal, earning himself a three-year $51 million contract during the 2025 offseason.
It's clear New Orleans wants to add to their cornerback room and the presence of Alexander would be a big one. While some may see it as counter-productive as the team traded former All-Pro Marshon Lattimore during the 2024 season, the likely team-friendly deal and lack of commitment the contract could carry is possibly an enticing addition to the Saints' defense.