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Analyst reveals Packers' top preseason storyline
Green Bay Packers cornerback Jaire Alexander. William Glasheen / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The biggest game of chicken across the NFL might be reaching a crescendo as Green Bay Packers mandatory minicamp nears.

All-Pro cornerback Jaire Alexander has frequently been mentioned in trade speculation throughout the offseason, as the seven-year veteran seeks a new long-term contract, and whether he participates in Green Bay’s mandatory minicamp is among the top storylines brewing across the league.

Jaire Alexander uncertainty looms large for Green Bay Packers

Over at CBS Sports, NFL analyst Garrett Podell lists Alexander’s situation as one of the top storylines to watch.

“The Athletic reported the Packers have offered Alexander a restructured contract,” Podell writes for CBS . “But, will that be enough to get the two-time Pro Bowler back in the fold for mandatory minicamp? Green Bay did sign 25-year-old cornerback Nate Hobbs away from the Las Vegas Raiders in free agency this offseason, and while he can play outside corner, Hobbs is probably at his best manning the slot.

“In order for Green Bay to maximize quarterback Jordan Love and the rest of the young offensive playmakers’ potential, they need their defense to continue its high level of play. The Packers were the league’s sixth-best scoring defense (19.9 points per game allowed) under new defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley in 2024, and for them to get another step forward, they need Alexander.”

Signing Hobbs was a strong insurance policy on the Packers’ relationship with Alexander turning catatonic, but there is little question that Green Bay’s defense, which made major strides last season, is significantly better with the All-Pro on the field.

Time will tell if the Packers and Alexander can strike a deal or if he’s ultimately traded elsewhere, but at this point, it’s anyone’s guess how this situation plays out.

This article first appeared on WI Sports Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

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