Packers Cornerback Jaire Alexander to Miss Postseason Due to Knee Injury

Green Bay Packers Cornerback Jaire Alexander to Undergo Surgery, Likely Out for Season

Green Bay Packers head coach Matt LaFleur announced that cornerback Jaire Alexander will undergo surgery to repair a knee injury that has kept him sidelined for most of the past two months. LaFleur believes that Alexander will likely be out for the remainder of the season.

Alexander, a two-time Pro Bowl selection, suffered the knee injury during a game against the Detroit Lions on November 3. He attempted to return for a game against the Chicago Bears, but played only 10 defensive snaps before re-aggravating the injury and missing the past six games.

The Packers’ loss is significant as they attempt to make a Super Bowl run as a wild card entry. They are currently the NFC’s No. 7 seed, which would require them to open the playoffs on the road against the Philadelphia Eagles.

The team is confident in its defensive backs, stating, “I have full trust in the guys in our room,” said safety Xavier McKinney. “We have a lot of talented guys, a lot of guys who are smart and can adjust on the fly.”

Alexander’s absence has given opportunities for younger players to step up, including 2023 seventh-round draft pick Carrington Valentine and 2021 first-round pick Eric Stokes. Neither player has disappointed, with Valentine recording his second interception in as many games against the Minnesota Vikings.

Alexander’s injury history has been notable, with him playing only 34 regular-season games over the past four seasons. He missed significant time with injuries to his shoulder, back, and groin, and served a one-game suspension last season.

Despite the setback, the Packers remain optimistic about their chances in the playoffs. As coach LaFleur said, “It stinks that we’re here, but we’re here.”