As the NFL offseason progresses, it appears inevitable that the Green Bay Packers will part ways with two-time Pro Bowl cornerback Jaire Alexander. Once regarded as one of the premier players at his position, Alexander’s talent earned him a four-year, $84 million contract, which made him the highest-paid cornerback in the league at the time.
However, injuries have significantly impacted his availability. When healthy, Alexander remains a top-tier cornerback, but staying on the field has been a challenge. Over the past two seasons, he has played in only 14 of a possible 34 regular-season games. Expanding that timeframe to four years, Alexander has participated in just 34 of 68 games.
Beyond his injury struggles, tensions have grown between Alexander and the Packers organization. Both sides seem to recognize the need for a fresh start, but it remains to be seen whether Green Bay will manage to trade him or ultimately release him.
Regardless of Alexander’s departure, the Packers were already in need of reinforcements at cornerback heading into the 2025 season. In addition to Alexander’s expected exit, both Eric Stokes and Corey Ballentine are set to hit free agency, leaving Green Bay with limited options at the position.
Currently, the Packers have Keisean Nixon and Carrington Valentine under contract, both of whom have proven to be solid starters. However, Green Bay has learned from experience that relying on their starting cornerbacks to remain healthy for an entire season is a risky proposition. While Nixon and Valentine provide a strong foundation, the Packers must prioritize bolstering their cornerback group through both the draft and free agency to ensure quality depth.
One potential target for Green Bay in free agency is New Orleans Saints cornerback Paulson Adebo. While high-profile names dominate the free-agent market, Adebo is an under-the-radar option who could provide excellent value. At just 25 years old, Adebo offers a blend of experience and potential that would fit well within Green Bay’s defensive scheme. Over his four-year career, he has recorded 10 interceptions and 43 passes defended in 52 games.
Adebo’s consistency and preparation have been key to his development as one of the league’s promising young corners. In 2023, he registered four interceptions, 18 passes defended, two forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries. Notably, quarterbacks struggled when targeting receivers covered by Adebo, posting a 60.0% completion rate and a 71.9 passer rating last season.
Financially, Adebo would be a more affordable option compared to other available cornerbacks. His projected market value stands at approximately two years and $22.2 million—significantly lower than the $25.3 million cap hit Alexander would carry if retained.
With Alexander’s departure looming and multiple roster spots to fill, the Packers will need to act decisively in the draft and free agency to fortify their secondary. A move for Adebo could provide Green Bay with a reliable and cost-effective solution as they transition into a new era in their defensive backfield.
