Darnold Departure: A Potential Turning Point for Jaire Alexander’s Packers Future
The Green Bay Packers’ offseason has been marked by uncertainty surrounding their star cornerback, Jaire Alexander. While trade rumors have swirled for weeks, a seemingly unrelated move by their NFC North rivals, the Minnesota Vikings, might have inadvertently solidified Alexander’s future in Green Bay: the departure of quarterback Sam Darnold.
Darnold, who had a career resurgence with the Vikings in the 2024 season, signed a lucrative three-year deal with the Seattle Seahawks in March. While this move directly impacts the Vikings’ quarterback room, its indirect effect on the Packers and Alexander could be significant.
Prior to Darnold’s departure, the Vikings presented a potential trade partner for Alexander. With a need for a strong cornerback to complement their defense and a question mark at the quarterback position, a trade involving Alexander could have been a possibility, especially if the Packers were looking to shed his hefty contract.
However, with Darnold now in Seattle, the Vikings’ focus has likely shifted. Reports indicate they are expected to move forward with rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy, whom they drafted in the first round. This commitment to a young quarterback suggests the Vikings may prioritize building around him, potentially making a significant investment in a cornerback like Alexander less appealing.
Furthermore, the Packers’ lack of cornerback additions in the early rounds of the recent draft could signal their intent to keep Alexander. They signed free agent Nate Hobbs, providing depth, but didn’t use premium draft capital on the position, suggesting they anticipate Alexander being a key part of their defense in 2025.
While Jaire Alexander’s absence from voluntary workouts has fueled speculation, the changing landscape in Minnesota, triggered by Sam Darnold’s move to Seattle, might have inadvertently closed off a potential trade avenue. As the Packers prepare for the upcoming season, it appears increasingly likely that Alexander will remain a cornerstone of their defense, aiming to put injury concerns behind him and live up to his All-Pro potential in Green Bay.
