Packers star cornerback unlikely to play vs Vikings

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Jaire Alexander
Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images

If there’s something that Green Bay Packers cornerback Jaire Alexander is really good at, it’s talking. He also remains incredibly good at being unavailable on the football field. Matt LaFleur’s top cornerback has been out since Week 10 this season, and it doesn’t look like his status will change this week vs. the Vikings.

Minnesota Vikings wide receivers can feast

Green Bay Packers cornerback Jaire Alexander started the first three weeks of the season. Then the Minnesota Vikings came calling and he was inactive. After a two-game absence, he returned for three more contests, but has been largely unavailable since.

Head coach Matt LaFleur was asked about Alexander’s availability Sunday against Minnesota, and the response didn’t sound promising.


Against the Chicago Bears, Alexander was limited to just 10 defensive snaps before exiting the game. Despite playing in only seven games this season, he has managed to secure two interceptions. His tackle count stands at 16, but he has also been effective in pass coverage, breaking up seven passes.

Minnesota jumped out to an early 28-0 lead in their first game against Green Bay. The 31-29 final score is relatively misleading, suggesting the amount of dominance the Vikings showed.

Sam Darnold torched the opposition for 275 yards on 20-of-28 passing. He threw three touchdowns and was picked off once. Justin Jefferson put up 85 yards and a touchdown while Jordan Addison scored and had 72 yards of his own.

Related: Harrison Smith Returns to Practice in Latest Minnesota Vikings Injury Report

Sunday’s contest is highly anticipated with Minnesota seeking a chance to play for the NFC’s top seen in Week 18. Justin Jefferson will still be a focal point for Green Bay’s defense, but they’ll have to attack him without their top corner, once again.

Related: Former Vikings Fan Favorite QB is Unretiring to Sign with… the Lions

Green Bay has seen Alexander practice for days, but it’s understandable that he’d rather return against a weaker opponent in Week 18. The Chicago Bears have nothing close to a Jefferson for him to deal with. He has now ducked Minnesota for 424 days.

Green Bay has observed Jaire Alexander participating in practice sessions over recent days, but it’s clear why he might prefer to make his comeback against a less formidable opponent in Week 18. The Chicago Bears lack a receiver on the caliber of Justin Jefferson, whom he would have to cover if he played the Vikings. Interestingly, Alexander has now avoided facing Minnesota for 424 days.

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