Vikings Named Landing Spot for NFC North Rival Defender

CBS Sports writer Cody Benjamin shared a list of his top candidates to be cut or traded past June 1. One player of focus was Green Bay Packers cornerback Jaire Alexander. While Benjamin believes a restructured deal is his prediction, if it goes sideways, the Vikings are a possible landing spot.

“All offseason, the Green Bay Packers have publicly anticipated a breakup with Alexander, who's simultaneously been one of the NFL's best -- and most injured -- cover men. Both sides hinted at a split in free agency, either via trade or release. Now the Packers apparently have a new contract offer on the table, but if the Pro Bowler doesn't bite at a pay cut, Green Bay could save $17 million by cutting or trading the cornerback after June 1. That's an increase of $9.5 million from prior to June 1.”

Alexander has spent the last seven years making the Vikings’ offense miserable in the Packers’ secondary, racking up 287 tackles, 70 pass deflections, and 12 interceptions in 78 games. He’s made the Pro Bowl and was an AP second-team All-Pro selection twice in 2020 and 2022.

Should Green Bay move on from Alexander, it’s doubtful they would trade him to the Vikings. Instead, Alexander would have to get released, and Minnesota could swoop in to get him.

The Vikings’ defense was among the worst against the pass last year, ranking 28th and allowing 242 yards per game. That led to changes being made as Cam Bynum departed for the Indianapolis Colts in free agency, and Stephon Gilmore has yet to sign with another team.

Minnesota brought in Isaiah Rodgers and Jeff Okudah to help at cornerback alongside Byron Murphy Jr. and Mekhi Blackmon. The Vikings surprisingly did not address the position in the 2025 NFL Draft, so speculation has risen about Minnesota signing a free-agent cornerback.

Alexander is a good fit within Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores’ scheme, as he is versatile and physical. The concern with Alexander is that he has missed 28 games since 2021 due to injuries.

Suppose he becomes available via trade or free agency. In that case, Minnesota will have to consider the option, as one more cornerback is needed on the roster before the 2025 season for insurance purposes.