The Green Bay Packers may be preparing for a significant change in their secondary, as speculation mounts regarding the potential departure of star cornerback Jaire Alexander. Once regarded as one of the NFL’s premier defensive backs, Alexander’s tenure with the Packers has been tarnished in recent years due to injuries and reported tension with the organization.
Alexander’s Decline and Contract Situation
Alexander, who earned two second-team All-Pro honors in his first four seasons, has struggled to stay on the field since 2023. Over the past two seasons, he’s appeared in just 14 games, and his personality has reportedly caused friction within the team. Although his contract runs through 2026, the Packers have options to part ways. They could cut him this offseason, voiding the final year of his deal while absorbing a $19 million dead cap hit in 2025. Alternatively, they could explore a trade, but it’s unlikely they’d receive significant compensation due to his recent struggles and salary concerns.
If the Packers decide to move on from Alexander, they’ll need to address a major hole in their defense at the cornerback position.
Vikings’ Byron Murphy as a Replacement?
According to The Athletic’s Matt Schneidman, Minnesota Vikings cornerback Byron Murphy could be an ideal candidate to fill the void left by Alexander. Murphy has excelled during his two-year stint in Minnesota after spending his first four seasons with the Arizona Cardinals. In 2024, the 27-year-old posted career-best numbers, including six interceptions, 14 pass deflections, and his first Pro Bowl selection.
Murphy’s performance in Minnesota came on a modest two-year, $17.5 million contract, making his production a bargain. However, his strong play means he’ll likely command a more lucrative deal in free agency this spring. Despite the anticipated pay raise, Murphy’s asking price is expected to fall short of the blockbuster extension Alexander received a few years ago, making him a cost-effective yet impactful option for the Packers.
Cap Space and the Packers’ Strategy
If the Packers were to cut or trade Alexander before June 1, they’d free up approximately $6.8 million in cap space, according to Over the Cap. This added flexibility could help them pursue a player like Murphy in free agency. His ability to replicate Alexander’s peak performance at a lower cost makes him an appealing target.
Moving Forward
As the offseason unfolds, the Packers face tough decisions regarding Alexander’s future and their cornerback situation. Whether they retain their former All-Pro or pivot to a younger and potentially more affordable option like Murphy, Green Bay’s defensive identity could undergo a significant transformation.
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