Ravens' $4M ballhawk with 12 INTs still absent from practice with knee injury from Packers tenure

Ravens' $4M ballhawk with 12 INTs still absent from practice with knee injury from Packers tenure originally appeared on The Sporting News

The Green Bay Packers faced a tough decision this summer regarding one of their longest-tenured cornerbacks. Unfortunately, injuries had continued to pile up, forcing the team’s hand. After one final meeting with Jaire Alexander, GM Brian Gutekunst made the decision to release him.

“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.

Following the release, Alexander’s father broke his silence, revealing details about the contract discussions. According to him, the lack of guaranteed money was the breaking point.

“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."

Ultimately, the contract was being restructured because of Alexander’s ongoing injury concerns. The Packers were seeking a deal that worked for both sides, but when no agreement was reached, they moved on. So far, it appears they may have made the right decision — Alexander is still struggling with injuries in Baltimore.

“Former Packers CB Jaire Alexander continues to miss practice with 'something he's been dealing with for a few years,' according to Ravens HC John Harbaugh. Alexander had his knee drained in July. He missed 10 games in 2024 with a knee injury that eventually required surgery,” NFL writer Jason B. Hirschhorn wrote.

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This situation doesn't look promising for Alexander, who once again seems unable to stay healthy. That said, when he's on the field, he's a true difference-maker. The Ravens understand how special he can be — but the Packers also understood how difficult it can be to actually get him on the field.