The Jacksonville Jaguars are predicted to trade for a two-time Pro Bowl cornerback to improve a defense that struggled significantly during the 2024 NFL season.
Ranked 31st in PFSN’s Defense+ Rankings, the Jaguars’ pass defense was the worst in the league. With a defensive EPA per dropback of -0.23 and an alarming average of 9.1 yards allowed per attempt against wide receivers, the secondary could use an injection of top-tier talent.
Why The Jaguars Should Trade for Jaire Alexander
The 2024 Jaguars defense totaled six interceptions, the third-fewest in the NFL, with two of those picks coming from linebackers. The unit allowed a league-high 7.1 net yards per attempt, the most first downs via pass, and tied for the fifth-most passing touchdowns surrendered. 2024 free agent acquisition Ronald Darby led the team with nine passes defended.
One solution to bolster the Jaguars’ porous secondary is trading for Green Bay Packers cornerback Jaire Alexander. Despite Alexander’s injury issues—missing 33 of 68 games over the last four seasons—he has been a second-team All-Pro twice and made the All-Rookie Team in 2018. In his last full season in 2022, he recorded five interceptions (5th most in the NFL) and landed at #26 on the NFL’s Top 100 heading into the 2023 season.
The Packers would pick up most of Alexander’s cap hit for 2025 if traded, and the Jaguars would absorb a hit of almost $28 million in 2026. Alexander’s set to become a free agent in 2027.
Green Bay isn’t in a tight cap situation in 2025, so immediately unloading Alexander’s contract isn’t a top priority. However, a post-June 1 release would free up more space, allowing the team to address other problem areas. Given Alexander’s inability to stay on the field, the team still feels the value isn’t quite there and has begun entertaining talks for a deal.
A significant advantage for the Jaguars in securing Alexander is their new defensive coordinator, Anthony Campanile. Campanile spent the 2024 season with the Packers as their linebackers coach and run game coordinator. His familiarity with Alexander’s skills and potential fit within Jacksonville’s defensive scheme could provide valuable insights that other teams may lack.
Campanile’s coaching philosophy emphasizes an aggressive and adaptable defense, which aligns well with Alexander’s play style when healthy. His previous experience under various defensive schemes could allow him to maximize Alexander’s talents while addressing the deficiencies seen in Jacksonville’s defense in 2024.
What Would The Jaguars Have To Give Up For Alexander?
A mid-round pick swap could be feasible for both teams. A structure similar to the recent trade involving Rasul Douglas—where Douglas and a fifth-round pick were sent to the Buffalo Bills for a third-round pick—could serve as a model.
With Jacksonville’s struggles on defense, acquiring a player of Alexander’s caliber could enhance their performance and instill confidence within the locker room that they are serious about making a push in an AFC South that is up for grabs.
The Jaguars’ potential trade for Jaire Alexander represents an opportunity to transform their secondary into a formidable unit.