For a while, it seemed as though Jaire Alexander had a chance to return in time for the Green Bay Packers' playoff run. He had logged several full-practice sessions, and while he didn't play, the signs were encouraging.
Alexander pushed to return, but it wasn't to be. Packers coach Matt LaFleur confirmed that the All-Pro cornerback required surgery. While he didn't completely shut the door on a return this season, LaFleur said it was "likely" Alexander will miss the remainder of the year.
The Packers have already had to adjust without Alexander in the secondary — he has only played 10 snaps since Week 8 — but now that any hope of a return is over, could they turn to free agency for some veteran help?
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When Evan Williams is healthy, Javon Bullard can play in the slot with Keisean Nixon on the outside alongside Carrington Valentine. However, the Packers have limited depth without Alexander.
Unsurprisingly, there aren't many options in free agency, but Green Bay could consider adding a veteran.
Which free-agent cornerbacks could Packers sign after Jaire Alexander injury update?
Patrick Peterson
It has been almost one year since Patrick Peterson's last NFL game, the Pittsburgh Steelers' 17-10 win over the Baltimore Ravens on January 6, 2024. At 34 years old, it's unclear whether the eight-time Pro Bowler will play another NFL snap, but he proved he could still contribute during his time with the Steelers and Minnesota Vikings.
Peterson started 16 games for Pittsburgh last season. According to Pro Football Reference, he allowed a completion percentage of just 59.4 and a passer rating of 91.5 and broke up 11 passes with two interceptions.
Although he might not provide Pro Bowl-level play, the veteran could add some necessary depth and experience behind Nixon and Valentine.
J.C. Jackson
J.C. Jackson is only three seasons removed from earning Pro Bowl and second-team All-Pro honors for the New England Patriots. That year, he made an incredible, league-best 23 pass defenses and eight interceptions. Between 2019 and 2021, he broke up 47 passes and intercepted 22.
However, Jackson's numbers declined dramatically after signing with the Los Angeles Chargers in 2022 before returning to the Patriots midway through last season. Jackson earned disappointing PFF grades of 28.7 and 34.8 in the past two seasons, respectively, and hasn't played since.
Can Jackson recapture his All-Pro form? Probably not. But if he can get anywhere close, the veteran could improve the Packers' secondary during the playoffs. However, considering his disappointing play over the past two seasons, it's a move the team likely won't consider.
Teams always need cornerback help, which makes it hard to find upgrades this late in the season. But if the Packers want to bring in a veteran, Peterson and Jackson could help.