Heard the same. Packers seem to have avoided anything major with Jaire’s injury. https://t.co/AqhgxKQo8g
— Matt Schneidman (@mattschneidman) September 26, 2022
Early optimism exists in Green Bay over the extent of the groin injury suffered by All-Pro cornerback Jaire Alexander during the Packers’ win over the Buccaneers on Sunday in Tampa Bay. According to both Tom Pelissero of NFL Network and Matt Schneidman of The Athletic, the Packers believe Alexander avoided a significant injury, although further testing will be done Monday.
Alexander suffered the injury on the sixth play of scrimmage while in coverage on a completion to Kyle Rudolph. He left the game and was initially deemed questionable to return, but the Packers ruled him out for the rest of the contest shortly after halftime.
In his absence, backup cornerback Keisean Nixon played 57 snaps on defense, a season high. Rasul Douglas moved from the slot to the perimeter to cover for Alexander on the outside.
As is the case with most soft-tissue injuries, the Packers will want to give Alexander ample time to recover in hopes of avoiding a reinjury at some point this season. A shutdown corner, he remains a big part of the team’s Super Bowl puzzle in 2022.
The Packers host the New England Patriots on Sunday, though it’s likely starting quarterback Mac Jones (ankle) won’t play. Coach Matt LaFleur will be able to provide further updates on Alexander’s status as the week progresses.
The Packers signed Alexander to a record-breaking new contract this offseason even though the 2020 All-Pro missed all but four regular-season games with a shoulder injury suffered last year.
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