Jaire Alexander may have played his final snap for the Packers

Jaire Alexander won't play in Week 17. He may never play for the Green Bay Packers again.

According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Packers "could explore a trade" for Alexander this offseason. Schefter reported that the decision on Alexander's future with the team is "expected to revolve around the $8 million roster bonus" he will receive in March.

Schefter noted that "other factors," including Alexander's recent injury history and decision not to participate in the offseason program, could come into play.

Then, of course, there is the fact the Packers suspended Alexander for this week's must-win game against the Minnesota Vikings. Head coach Matt LaFleur said it wasn't a result of "one thing," hinting that Alexander's suspension wasn't only due to last week's coin-toss incident.

It puts the Packers in a tough spot in Week 17, as they have also ruled out starting cornerback Eric Stokes due to a hamstring injury.

Alexander can return for next week's game against the Chicago Bears, but if the Packers are considering trading him, would they have him play?

How would Jaire Alexander trade impact Packers salary cap?

While trading Alexander is possible, it would come at a cost.

Per Spotrac, Alexander's cap hit in 2024 is $24.36 million. Trading or cutting him before June 1 would increase that number to $27.46 million.

Financially, trading Alexander is difficult. But it shouldn't be ruled out. If the relationship between Alexander and the Packers has soured enough, moving on might be the only realistic option. While Green Bay would eat a significant dead cap hit, it could also net a premium draft pick in a deal for Alexander.

It's far from an ideal situation. Perhaps the Packers and Alexander can get back on the same page following this suspension and move past it.

But based on how this season has played out -- Alexander has featured in only six of a possible 16 games due to injuries and suspension -- it wouldn't be surprising if the Packers moved on.

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