The Green Bay Packers made a major financial decision on Monday morning when they finally chose to part ways with veteran cornerback Jaire Alexander. This offseason has been a whirlwind in terms of contract negotiations, and with mandatory minicamp starting on Tuesday, the team opted to move on—despite expectations that Alexander’s deal would be restructured.
“The question, to me, comes down to money,” Breer wrote. “He’s due $17.5 million this year. And, because of his recent injury history, that’s shown to be a bit rich for interested teams. Alexander, meanwhile, would rather be cut so he can pick his destination… I would think, at this point, the most likely scenario is that he’s back on a reduced contract,” Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer wrote.
Despite the turmoil, Alexander remained in regular contact with the Packers.
“Alexander has not reported to the Packers’ voluntary workouts, which would raise red flags over his status with the team. While speculation has run wild, passing game coordinator Derrick Ansley sang a different tune, telling ESPN’s Rob Demovsky that he’s been in contact with Alexander every day while skipping the offseason workouts,” DailyLand Express’ Chris Schad wrote.
Once considered one of Green Bay’s greatest assets, Alexander’s time in a Packers uniform was ultimately cut short by injuries. With one of the largest salary cap spaces in the NFL, the San Francisco 49ers have emerged as a potential destination. CBS Sports’ Jared Dubin believes they should sign him.
“The Niners lost Charvarius Ward in free agency this offseason, and currently seem likely to start either journeyman Tre Brown or third-round pick Upton Stout opposite Deommodore Lenoir at one of their corner spots. Bringing in another veteran — even one with injury issues — is an idea that has some merit, especially considering how much cap room the 49ers have on their hands. According to Over the Cap, only the Patriots have more cap space than the Niners’ current $46.6 million in room,” Dubin wrote.
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San Francisco’s secondary isn’t as strong as it has been in recent seasons. Signing Alexander could be a key move in another Super Bowl run.
