Packers cut 2-time All-Pro right before mini camp. Should Patriots make a call?

The Green Bay Packers just shook up free agency right as mini camp is set to open.

According to ESPN and The Athletic, the Packers are releasing two-time Pro Bowler and two-time Second-Team All-Pro cornerback Jaire Alexander.

When healthy, Alexander has been one of the league’s top cornerbacks. However, he hasn’t been particularly healthy as of late. Over the past four seasons, Alexander has played over seven games just one time.

However, the past two times Alexander did play a full season, he made the Pro Bowl. There’s also the issue of his ugly departure from Green Bay, which saw him suspended by the team and skipping offseason workouts this summer.

So, should the Patriots make a call to inquire about the 28-year-old cornerback? They certainly have the chips to make that sort of gamble without going all in.

It’s hard to imagine the Patriots offering Alexander a major long-term deal after seeing him flame out on Green Bay. Meanwhile, the cornerback’s stock is at an all-time low.

A one-year “prove it” deal might be attractive for both sides. It would give Alexander a chance to reset his market and try to draw one more major free-agent contract. Meanwhile, the Patriots still have plenty of money to spend this year. According to Over the Cap, New England still has a league-high $60.4 million in cap space.

Alexander is an excellent cornerback and could help the Patriots build an elite group in the secondary. Mike Vrabel’s team already has plenty to work with in the form of rising star Christian Gonzalez and top free agent Carlton Davis.

But after that, there are some question marks. Marcus Jones has shown promise, but is undersized and has injury concerns of his own. Beyond Jones, there’s a serious drop off, with options including the likes of Alex Austin, Marcellas Dial and rookie Craig Woodson in the slot.

Adding Alexander would give New England an elite trio of cornerbacks, which is something teams need in the modern wide-open era of the NFL.

Packers cut 2-time All-Pro right before mini camp. Should Patriots make a call?

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