The Green Bay Packers (7-8) are in the midst of their most important game of the season. They’ll meet the Minnesota Vikings (7-8) on Sunday Night Football. The winner will still have a chance to make the playoffs this year, while the loser will almost certainly be out. As a result, this game is virtually a playoff game.
The Packers confirmed today that top cornerback Jaire Alexander will be suspended. Matt LaFleur addressed Alexander’s future with the squad shortly after practice.
As an example, consider what was reported earlier today:
The following is a statement issued by the Packers:
The Green Bay Packers have placed CB Jaire Alexander on the reserve/suspended list for one game for conduct detrimental to the team. The move was announced on Wednesday by General Manager Brian Gutekunst.
“Suspending a player is never an easy decision, and it is not one we take lightly.” “Unfortunately, Jaire’s actions prior to the game in Carolina prompted us to take this action,” Gutekunst explained. “As a company, we expect everyone to prioritize the team. While we are sad, we had a wonderful talk with Jaire this morning and fully expect him to learn from it as we work together in the future. We look forward to welcoming him back next week since he is and will continue to be an important member of this squad.”
Despite the fact that he wasn’t captain on Sunday, Alexander walked out for the coin toss (and won). After winning the coin toss for the Packers, Alexander told the officials that he wanted “Green Bay’s defense on the field,” rather than declaring the team intended to defer.
If he hadn’t explained, the Packers would have missed out on receiving the second half kickoff. This is obviously an unusual case. The team’s decision to suspend its own player before the biggest game of the season (and against Justin Jefferson) likely elicit some responses throughout the league.
Matt LaFleur believes Alexander will stay with the team.
According to Ryan Wood of USA Today:
“I think Ja’s going to be here for a long time,” says Matt LaFleur of Jaire Alexander. He’s a fantastic player.”
“I know this has been a difficult season for him. By all means, I want to be clear that it has nothing to do with his inability to play.”
Matt LaFleur on his relationship with Jaire Alexander following his suspension: “I am absolutely confident that the relationship between me and Jaire will be better as a result of this.” We had a terrific talk this morning, and I’m excited to have him back in the future.”
Alexander is a key member of the Packers’ defense. Keeping him in Green Bay long-term is certainly optimal for the team’s talent level. Hopefully, both parties leave the situation feeling more confident in one another.
