On June 9, 2025, the NFL landscape shifted dramatically when the Green Bay Packers made the surprising decision to release two-time Pro Bowl cornerback Jaire Alexander. At just 28 years old, Alexander, a former first-round pick and one of the league’s premier defensive backs when healthy, now hits the free-agent market, and the San Francisco 49ers are emerging as a prime destination for his services. For 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan, this unexpected move by Green Bay could be the golden opportunity to bolster his secondary and push San Francisco closer to Super Bowl contention. Here’s why Shanahan is likely grinning behind closed doors.
A Perfect Fit for a Glaring Need
The 49ers’ secondary has been a point of concern heading into the 2025 season, particularly after losing starting cornerback Charvarius Ward in free agency. Currently, the team is projected to start journeyman Tre Brown or rookie third-round pick Upton Stout opposite Deommodore Lenoir, a setup that lacks the elite talent needed to compete against the NFL’s high-powered passing attacks. Alexander, despite his injury history, is a proven playmaker who could immediately step in as the team’s No. 1 cornerback. His ability to lock down top receivers would give San Francisco’s defense the edge it needs in a competitive NFC West.
In 2022, Alexander signed a four-year, $84 million extension with the Packers, a testament to his elite status when healthy. His career stats—287 tackles, 12 interceptions, and four fumble recoveries over seven seasons—highlight his ability to change games. While injuries limited him to just four games in 2021 and caused him to miss significant time in recent years, his 2022 All-Pro season (five interceptions in 16 games) proves he can still dominate. For a 49ers team with ample cap space—reportedly among the highest in the NFL—signing Alexander to a short-term, incentive-laden deal could be a low-risk, high-reward move.
Familiarity Breeds Confidence
One of the key reasons Shanahan might be excited about Alexander is the familiarity within the 49ers’ coaching staff. Defensive coordinator Robert Saleh and assistant head coach Gus Bradley both worked with Alexander during their time with the Packers and Jaguars, respectively. Saleh, who served as a consultant for Green Bay last season, has firsthand knowledge of Alexander’s capabilities and how to maximize his impact. This prior relationship could ease Alexander’s transition into the 49ers’ defensive scheme, which relies heavily on aggressive, man-coverage techniques that align perfectly with his skill set.
Moreover, Saleh’s experience with Jalen Ramsey in Jacksonville offers a compelling comparison. While Ramsey, now with the Miami Dolphins, is a durable veteran who played all 17 games last season, Alexander’s youth and upside make him an intriguing alternative. If Shanahan and Saleh believe they can keep Alexander healthy, his potential to outperform even Ramsey in bursts could elevate the 49ers’ defense to new heights.
A Cost-Effective Opportunity
Alexander’s injury history, while a concern, could work in the 49ers’ favor. After missing 16 games over the past three seasons and playing only 49.9% of defensive snaps in 2024, his market value may be lower than his talent suggests. The Packers’ decision to release him rather than trade him—despite exploring trade options for months—indicates that his $24 million cap hit for 2025 was a sticking point. For the 49ers, this presents a chance to sign a superstar at a discounted rate, potentially on a one-year “prove-it” deal. Such a contract would allow San Francisco to manage risk while reaping the rewards of Alexander’s elite coverage skills.
The 49ers’ financial flexibility, with roughly $28.9 million in cap space, positions them to make this move without breaking the bank. Unlike a potential trade for a player like Ramsey, which would require draft capital and a heftier financial commitment, signing Alexander as a free agent is a low-cost way to acquire a high-impact player. Shanahan, known for his strategic roster-building, likely sees this as a rare opportunity to land a talent of Alexander’s caliber without sacrificing assets.
Addressing Character Concerns
One potential hurdle is Alexander’s reputation for off-field issues, most notably a one-game suspension in 2023 for “conduct detrimental to the team” after a coin-toss incident. However, the 49ers’ coaching staff, particularly Saleh, has experience managing strong personalities. Shanahan’s track record of fostering a disciplined team culture suggests he’s confident in integrating Alexander without disrupting locker room chemistry. If Alexander is motivated to prove himself after his release from Green Bay, San Francisco could be the perfect environment for him to thrive.
The Bigger Picture: Super Bowl Aspirations
The 49ers are in a championship window, with a talented roster led by quarterback Brock Purdy, running back Christian McCaffrey, and a formidable defensive front. However, their secondary has been a weak link, and facing elite receivers like Mike Evans, Chris Godwin, and Drake London in the NFC demands a shutdown corner. Alexander’s addition would not only address this need but also send a message to the rest of the league that San Francisco is all-in for 2025.
Shanahan’s smile likely stems from the realization that the Packers’ loss could be the 49ers’ gain. By signing Alexander, San Francisco could transform its defense into a unit capable of matching up with any offense in the NFL. With Saleh’s familiarity, the team’s cap space, and Alexander’s hunger to reclaim his status as one of the league’s best, this move feels like a match made in football heaven.
Conclusion
The Green Bay Packers’ decision to release Jaire Alexander has handed the San Francisco 49ers a golden opportunity to acquire a Pro Bowl superstar at a bargain. For Kyle Shanahan, the chance to add a player of Alexander’s caliber—especially one with ties to his coaching staff—is a reason to celebrate. If the 49ers can keep him healthy and focused, Alexander could be the missing piece that propels San Francisco to a Super Bowl. The Packers may have moved on, but Shanahan is likely already envisioning how Alexander will look in red and gold.