The Green Bay Packers’ All-Pro cornerback Jaire Alexander has been labeled as the team’s most overpaid player due to his recent contract extension worth $84 million.
Brad Gagnon of Bleacher Report identified Alexander as the Packers’ most overpriced asset, highlighting his missed playing time in 2022 and 2023 as factors contributing to this assessment. While acknowledging Alexander’s exceptional talent as a cornerback, Gagnon pointed out that he has missed a significant portion of two of the last three seasons despite earning $21 million annually on his four-year deal.
Alexander signed a four-year extension that runs until 2026, but unless he significantly improves his performance in 2024, criticisms about the value of his contract are likely to intensify throughout the season.
The 2023 season was tumultuous for Alexander, marked by a shoulder injury that sidelined him for a considerable period. There were speculations about his absence being linked to dissatisfaction with the defensive strategy under Joe Barry. Although he was not placed on injured reserve, he only played in seven games that season.
Despite these challenges, Alexander made impactful plays during the playoffs, including a crucial interception against the Dallas Cowboys. Trade rumors circulated after his erratic season, but general manager Brian Gutekunst dismissed these speculations, expressing optimism that Alexander can bounce back under the guidance of new defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley in 2024.
Hafley’s arrival brings expectations of defensive adjustments, transitioning from a 3-4 to a 4-3 base defense with an emphasis on single-high safety formations like Cover 1 and Cover 3. The signing of Xavier McKinney to a $68 million contract in free agency reflects these strategic changes. Hafley’s expertise in developing defensive backs, as seen in his work with players like Duron Harman and Logan Ryan, positions him to help Alexander realize his full potential moving forward.
