The Detroit Lions just got a gift before Week 1 — and it came straight from Green Bay.
In a surprising Monday morning move, the Packers released star cornerback Jaire Alexander, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. After months of trade speculation, most figured Alexander would remain in Green Bay, at least for the 2025 season. Instead, he’s now a free agent — and the Lions won’t have to deal with him when they open the season against the Packers.
Alexander has battled injuries the last two years, managing just seven games in both 2023 and 2024. But when healthy, he’s been one of the best corners in the NFC. Back in 2022, he posted five interceptions and over 50 tackles. Still, Green Bay clearly didn’t want to keep juggling his contract, especially after he refused to take a pay cut.
With Alexander gone, the Packers’ secondary is suddenly looking thin. They’ve still got Xavier McKinney, but now they’ll lean more on guys like Keisean Nixon, Carrington Valentine, and rookie Micah Robinson.
For the Lions, this is huge. Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams were likely gearing up to face Alexander in the opener — now they may have a much easier path to making plays downfield. And considering Alexander only had one pick in his entire career against Detroit, this might be the final chapter in an underwhelming rivalry performance.
The Packers do save $17.1 million by releasing Alexander after June 1, so this wasn’t just personal — it’s business. But if you’re the Lions? You’ll take it. Week 1 just got a little more winnable.
Lions Catch a Break: Packers Cut Star CB Jaire Alexander Before Week 1 Clash
