The Green Bay Packers have long leaned on the services of high-end cornerback Jaire Alexander in their quests to build a winner, but he has struggled mightily when it comes to staying healthy over the last few years. This has led to the possibility of a divorce being more real than ever before.
The Packers have a ton of money committed to Jordan Love, and they need to save a few dollars and cents elsewhere to lock up some of the other members of their young core. Alexander could end up as a cap casualty, which would have been unthinkable to fans who have seen him put up such splendid play over the last few seasons.
However, the latest rumblings from those close to Green Bay make this parting of ways seem very mutual. Green Bay is willing to take the decline in production to avoid paying him a ton of money after such injury-riddled seasons.
According to Rob Demovsky of ESPN, the Packers are reportedly "done" with Alexander after last year, with both his expensive eight-figure cap hit and his recent inability to stay healthy likely bringing an end to his seven-season tenure as a cornerstone member of the Green Bay defense.
Jaire Alexander reportedly "done" with Packers after injuries
Alexander has played just 14 games over the past two seasons and 34 in the past four campaigns. Both Alexander and GM Brian Gutekunst have reportedly expressed some frustration with how the former Louisville star's last few years with the club have gone, even if he isn't purposefully getting hurt.
Even without Alexander and a pass rush that proved to be increasingly ineffective as the year went on, the Packers managed to build a Top 10 defense under new DC Jeff Hafley. Given Hafley's experience coaching defensive backs specifically, the front office could feel confident enough in their ability to replace him.
Alexander will still be sought after in free agency, as he has proven time and time again to be one of the best man coverage cornerbacks in the league when healthy. Any team that runs a man-heavy scheme would be wise to roll the dice on someone with as much physical talent as him.
Alexander's tenure in Green By was fairly successful, even as his body began to betray him nearthe end. Still, it seems like both parties just need a fresh start after such a rough go of it during the last few seasons.