The Green Bay Packers released Jaire Alexander over a week ago after a prolonged effort to reach an agreement on a restructured deal. Alexander had expressed a desire to stay in Green Bay, and it appeared the team was interested in retaining him. That was the tone throughout the offseason as both sides worked toward a new contract.
“On the contract front, the Packers could want a revised deal that allows Alexander — who has missed at least 10 games in three of the last four seasons — to earn his full salary if he’s healthy and available in 2025 but protects the team in case the injuries continue,” Packers Wire’s Zach Kruse wrote.
Packers GM Brian Gutekunst later disclosed what ultimately led to Alexander’s release.
“Packers GM Brian Gutekunst met in person with CB Jaire Alexander on Sunday one last time, presumably giving him one last chance to restructure/reduce his contract and when he refused, Alexander was released from the team the next morning. Jaire has yet to comment this offseason,” Packers reporter Mike Clemens wrote.
Alexander went on to sign a $4 million deal with the Baltimore Ravens that includes incentives. The move also reunited him with former college teammate Lamar Jackson. According to reports, Jackson personally urged GM Eric DeCosta to sign Alexander on Tuesday, and DeCosta delivered the following day.
Speaking on ESPN Wisconsin, Alexander’s father revealed that the lack of guaranteed money was the deciding factor in leaving the Packers.
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“To not have any guarantees in there was where we had the issue. It wasn’t actually the dollar amount, it was the no guaranteed money,” his father said. “It’s kind of insulting to come to a two-time All-Pro, and somebody who gave blood, sweat, and tears to you, and to not have any guarantees.”
This development is surprising, especially given the Packers’ apparent interest in bringing Alexander back. However, without guaranteed money, the veteran cornerback would have been taking a significant personal and professional risk.
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