Will the Dolphins Have Interest in CB Jaire Alexander?
As the Miami Dolphins approach the start of their 2024 season, their roster remains in flux, with one of the biggest questions being the state of the cornerback position. Miami has been working to shore up their defense, but the news surrounding Jalen Ramsey’s potential trade has left a gaping hole at the cornerback spot.
While Ramsey’s future remains uncertain, he has already made waves by announcing he will skip the mandatory OTAs this week, a move that is expected to bring a fine from the team. Speculation around his trade has intensified, the best bookie services predicting that Ramsey will be traded before the end of June. As a result, the Phins are likely eyeing a veteran cornerback to fill the void, and one name that has emerged on the market is Jaire Alexander, the recently released two-time Pro Bowler from the Green Bay Packers.
Alexnder is still very good, but oft injured
Alexander, once considered one of the top cornerbacks in the league, is known for his ability to shut down top-tier receivers. However, his recent years have been marred by injuries. Over the past four seasons, Alexander has appeared in just 33 out of a possible 68 games, a concerning statistic for any team considering him for a starting role. His injury history raises doubts about his ability to return to his Pro Bowl form, especially after missing significant playing time in recent years. For the Dolphins, a team already contending with injury concerns in their secondary, this could be a major red flag.
In terms of finances, Alexander’s contract situation also presents challenges. He was scheduled to earn $16.1 million this season, but none of that money was guaranteed, and reports indicate that the Packers were even open to restructuring his contract. However, the two sides could not come to an agreement, which could complicate any potential signing by Miami.While the Dolphins would love to add a shutdown corner, the financial commitment required to sign Alexander could be too steep, especially considering his injury history. Sportrac’s projections estimate Alexander could receive a one-year deal worth up to $10 million, but this may be on the higher end given the player’s recent struggles.
When healthy, Alexander is undeniably a top-tier cornerback, but the question remains: can he stay healthy for an entire season? Even if he can, would he return to his dominant form? Alexander would likely be an immediate upgrade over the current crop of cornerbacks on the Dolphins roster, but his injury concerns could make him a risky signing, especially if Miami is not willing to offer the kind of contract Alexander would likely demand.
Price AND Injury history a bridge to far for Miami?
With these uncertainties surrounding Alexander’s health and price tag, it might make more sense for the Dolphins to explore other, more affordable options. One potential alternative is Asante Samuel Jr., a cornerback who spent the 2023 season with the San Diego Chargers. Samuel has also struggled with injuries, playing in only four games last year, but he is two years younger than Alexander and could be a more cost-effective solution for Miami’s secondary. Samuel has six career interceptions and, while he may not have the same pedigree as Alexander, he could prove to be a solid long-term option for the Dolphins.
