The Buffalo Bills had interest in trading for Jaire Alexander, but will they pursue him in free agency after drafting Maxwell Hairston?
The Buffalo Bills have been making calculated moves to bolster their roster for the 2025 NFL season, and one of their latest interests has sparked intrigue across the league. After the Green Bay Packers officially released two-time All-Pro cornerback Jaire Alexander, the Bills are reportedly eyeing the 27-year-old defensive star to strengthen their secondary. This development follows earlier trade discussions between the Bills and Packers that ultimately fell through, as reported by FOX Sports’ Jordan Schultz.
A Strategic Opportunity for Buffalo
The Bills’ interest in Alexander is not new. Earlier this offseason, the team engaged in trade talks with Green Bay to acquire the talented cornerback, but the negotiations did not materialize. With Alexander now a free agent, Buffalo has a renewed opportunity to pursue a player who could significantly upgrade their defensive backfield. The Bills’ secondary has undergone changes, with Rasul Douglas hitting the open market and Kaiir Elam being traded to the Dallas Cowboys for draft picks. The addition of rookie Maxwell Hairston, selected in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft, shows promise, but Alexander’s proven track record could provide the veteran presence Buffalo needs to compete in a highly competitive AFC.
Jaire Alexander, a former first-round pick, has been one of the NFL’s premier cornerbacks when healthy. Over seven seasons with the Packers, he earned two Pro Bowl selections and two second-team All-Pro honors, showcasing his ability to lock down top receivers. Despite his injury-plagued recent seasons, where he played only 14 games over the last two years, Alexander’s talent remains undeniable. His release from Green Bay, driven by a combination of his $17.5 million cap hit and recurring injuries, has opened the door for teams like the Bills to pursue him at potentially a lower cost.
Why Alexander Fits the Bills’ Needs
The Bills’ defense has been a cornerstone of their success under head coach Sean McDermott, but the secondary has faced challenges in maintaining consistency. With Christian Benford emerging as a reliable starter and recently signing a four-year, $76 million extension, Buffalo has a solid foundation. However, the departure of Douglas and the trade of Elam have left gaps that a player of Alexander’s caliber could fill. His ability to play both outside and in the slot, combined with his knack for making game-changing plays, such as his interception against the Dallas Cowboys in the 2024 playoffs, makes him an attractive target.
Moreover, the Bills have a history of successfully integrating former Packers defensive backs, as evidenced by their trade for Rasul Douglas, which proved to be a fruitful move. Alexander’s experience and versatility could complement Buffalo’s defensive scheme, which relies on physicality and coverage skills to disrupt opposing passing attacks. While rookie Hairston is expected to take on a starting role, pairing him with a seasoned veteran like Alexander could accelerate his development and create one of the league’s stronger cornerback duos.
Challenges and Considerations
Despite the potential fit, there are hurdles to consider. Alexander’s injury history is a significant concern, as his limited availability over the past two seasons raises questions about his durability. Additionally, his previous $84 million contract with Green Bay may have set high expectations for his next deal, though his release could force him to accept a more team-friendly contract. The Bills, known for their strategic approach to free agency under general manager Brandon Beane, are likely to weigh these factors carefully. Beane’s philosophy of targeting mid-tier veterans rather than splurging on high-cost free agents, as seen with the Von Miller signing that didn’t fully pan out, suggests that Buffalo will only pursue Alexander if the price is right.
Another consideration is the presence of other teams in the race for Alexander. Posts on X indicate that the Miami Dolphins are also among the top teams interested in the former Packer, which could complicate Buffalo’s plans. The Bills will need to act swiftly and decisively to secure Alexander’s services, especially given their earlier interest in him during trade discussions.
The Bigger Picture for Buffalo
The Bills’ pursuit of Alexander aligns with their broader goal of maintaining a championship-caliber roster. With quarterback Josh Allen recently signing a six-year, $330 million extension and the team coming off a strong 2024 season, Buffalo is positioning itself as a serious contender in 2025. Adding a player of Alexander’s caliber could provide the defensive boost needed to counter the high-powered offenses in the AFC, including rivals like the Kansas City Chiefs and Miami Dolphins.
While it remains uncertain whether the Bills will ultimately sign Alexander, their interest signals an intent to address key roster needs aggressively. As one X post noted, “Buffalo traded for Packers CB Rasul Douglas in the recent past and that worked out well for them. Could look to add Alexander now.” This sentiment reflects the optimism surrounding Buffalo’s ability to integrate another high-profile defensive back from Green Bay.
Conclusion
As the Buffalo Bills navigate the 2025 offseason, their quiet pursuit of Jaire Alexander represents a strategic move to bolster their secondary. With the Packers officially cutting ties with the talented but injury-prone cornerback, Buffalo has a chance to capitalize on their earlier trade interest and add a proven defensive star. While challenges such as Alexander’s health and contract expectations remain, his potential fit in Buffalo’s defense makes this a storyline worth watching. As the Bills aim to build on their recent success, landing Alexander could be a pivotal step toward solidifying their status as Super Bowl contenders.