The Green Bay Packers are still trying to figure out their cornerback situation as questions loom over Jaire Alexander’s status heading into the 2025 season. However, they might find a solution in free agency—if they’re willing to be patient.
Alexander’s future remains uncertain as the Packers prepare for OTAs next week. The two-time Pro Bowler has missed 10 games in each of the last two seasons due to injuries, spending most of 2024 sidelined with a knee problem.
Alexander also raised uncertainty about his return to the Packers in 2025 during the team’s end-of-season locker cleanout in January. He declined to speak with reporters and, as NBC 26’s Kelly Hallinan reported, said he had nothing positive to share.
Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst has kept the possibility open that the team and Jaire Alexander could reach an agreement to keep him in Green Bay for 2025. However, it’s increasingly likely the Packers may part ways with their top cornerback before the season, creating a significant gap in their lineup.
To prepare for that scenario, Bleacher Report’s Moe Moton recommends the Packers monitor former Los Angeles Chargers starter Asante Samuel Jr., who remains unsigned as teams await updates on his ongoing neck injury.
“The Packers can hold onto Alexander until they get clarity on Samuel’s medical status this summer,” Moton wrote on May 24. “If doctors clear Samuel to play, Green Bay should sign him and then trade Alexander.”
Medical Concerns Loom Large Over Asante Samuel Jr.
The Packers would face no criticism if they continue monitoring Samuel, hoping to pursue a signing later if his medical issues improve. Samuel has a doctor’s appointment scheduled for July that might shed more light on his condition.
However, Samuel’s medical concerns are significant, particularly for a team like Green Bay that may need to find a replacement for its top cornerback soon.
Samuel started 47 games on the boundary for the Chargers over his first four seasons, showcasing strong instincts and ball skills that resulted in six interceptions and 37 pass deflections. Pro Football Focus rated him above 80.0 in coverage for both 2022 and 2023, highlighting his impact on L.A.’s defense when healthy.
However, Samuel’s 2024 season was cut short by injury, limiting him to just four games. According to ESPN, he described the injury as a “stinger in both shoulders” and noted it’s a condition he’s dealt with since birth. After the season, Samuel underwent neck surgery in April, which has stalled his free agency process.
Samuel might receive a full medical clearance in July, but any lingering uncertainty about his health could discourage teams like the Packers from pursuing him.
