The Green Bay Packers’ Daring Gamble to Replace Alexander: A Potential Cap Casualty, with Pro Bowler Ward – A Spectacular Defensive Upgrade
The Green Bay Packers are facing a crucial decision this offseason as they contemplate parting ways with their top cornerback, Jaire Alexander. After signing a substantial contract extension worth $84 million in 2022, Alexander’s performance has been hampered by injuries, raising concerns about his future with the team. With a significant $25 million cap hit looming next season, the Packers are considering the possibility of moving on from Alexander as a cap casualty.
In light of this situation, there have been strong recommendations for the Packers to target a trade for Denzel Ward, a four-time Pro Bowler currently playing for the Cleveland Browns. The prospect of acquiring Ward as a replacement for Alexander has garnered attention, with experts highlighting Ward’s exceptional skills and track record in the league.
Ward: The Perfect Replacement for Alexander
Freddie Boston of FanSided emphasized the potential impact of bringing in Ward to fill the void left by Alexander. Drawing parallels between the two players, Boston noted that Ward, who was selected fourth overall in the 2018 NFL Draft, has established himself as a standout performer with four Pro Bowl appearances to his name. Ward’s ability to disrupt plays, evidenced by his impressive average of 13.6 pass defenses and 2.4 interceptions per season, underscores his value as a top-tier cornerback.
Unlike Alexander, whose availability has been marred by injuries, Ward has consistently delivered strong performances, never tallying fewer than 10 pass defenses in a season. With three years remaining on his lucrative five-year, $100 million contract, Ward represents a reliable and proven option for the Packers to fortify their defense.
Elevating the Packers’ Defense
Should the Packers proceed with parting ways with Alexander and successfully acquire Ward, the team stands to benefit significantly. While Keisean Nixon and Carrington Valentine have shown promise, they have yet to exhibit the same level of dominance as a shutdown corner that Ward embodies. The addition of Ward, a seasoned Pro Bowler with a proven track record of excellence, could elevate the Packers’ defense to new heights and solidify their secondary.
Kelly Hallinan of NBC reported Alexander’s hints at an uncertain future, signaling a potential shift in the Packers’ defensive lineup. Despite Alexander’s absence for a significant portion of the previous season, the team demonstrated resilience and defensive prowess. By securing an elite talent like Ward, the Packers have the opportunity to not only fill the void left by Alexander but also enhance their defensive capabilities, setting the stage for a formidable unit in the upcoming season.
