The Green Bay Packers have officially closed the book on the Jaire Alexander chapter.
The franchise announced Monday they released the veteran cornerback, ending months of uncertainty about his future in Wisconsin.
The move caught many off guard, including those closest to league developments.
NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport broke the news but admitted the decision surprised him during an appearance on “The Pat McAfee Show.”
“I was a little surprised, because he’s really talented. He’s not a bad guy. Like, he’s a little bit different and really hilarious, honestly, but not a bad guy,” Rapoport said.
“I was a little surprised that the Packers released Jaire Alexander..
The Packers tried to get a trade done before the draft and they tried to restructure his contract..
It just didn’t work out and I think he’s gonna have a real market” ~ @RapSheet #PMSLive pic.twitter.com/kM3L36D4A3
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) June 9, 2025
The timing reveals just how challenging Alexander’s situation became for Green Bay’s front office.
Rapoport disclosed that the Packers had actively shopped Alexander before the draft, seeking a trade partner willing to absorb his $15.3 million price tag. No team showed interest at that cost.
Green Bay even presented Alexander with a restructured contract, likely involving a pay cut, but he declined to engage in negotiations.
His position seemed clear: if departure from Green Bay was inevitable, he wanted control over his next destination.
At 28 years old, Alexander brings Pro Bowl credentials and elite ball skills that rarely hit the open market.
Rapoport suggested the cornerback will command significant interest and eventually secure another lucrative deal, whether that happens before training camp or later in the process.
The Packers made a substantial commitment to Alexander in 2022, signing him to a four-year, $84 million extension.
However, availability became a persistent issue. After appearing in just four games during 2021, Alexander was again limited to seven appearances in both 2023 and 2024 due to injuries and suspension.
Originally drafted 18th overall in 2018, Alexander compiled 78 games and 76 starts across seven seasons in Green Bay.
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