Former Pro Bowl cornerback emerges as trade candidate for Pittsburgh Steelers

The Pittsburgh Steelers could have another big-name trade target, this time at the cornerback position. This time, it is Green Bay Packers cornerback Jaire Alexander. Alexander is expected to be traded or released by the Packers, and he has permission to speak with other teams.

Injuries have marred Alexander, which has continued to set him back throughout his career. Now 28 years old, Alexander hopes to find a new spot, but his huge contract complicates a trade.

More likely than not, Alexander will have to be either cut, or the Packers will have to take on their salary significantly in the trade scenario. There is not much of a question about his ability, however.

Alexander is a two-time All-Pro and two-time Pro Bowler, which all set him up for sustained success. He has 12 interceptions in his career but has played just 14 games in the last two seasons as the injuries rack up for the former Louisville product.

The Steelers could take a swing on Alexander, but the injuries are concerning, and he would have to be one of multiple moves made rather than just the only move at cornerback.

Steelers Eyeing Jaire Alexander as Potential Trade Target

The Pittsburgh Steelers could have another high-profile trade target on their radar, this time at the cornerback position. Reports indicate that Green Bay Packers cornerback Jaire Alexander may be on the move, with the team either looking to trade or release the star defender. Alexander has already been granted permission to speak with other teams, fueling speculation about his next destination.

A High-Risk, High-Reward Player

At 28 years old, Alexander remains one of the most talented defensive backs in the league. The former first-round pick is a two-time All-Pro and two-time Pro Bowler, showcasing elite coverage skills and ball-hawking ability. Over his career, he has recorded 12 interceptions, cementing himself as a top-tier corner when healthy. However, injuries have plagued him in recent seasons, limiting him to just 14 games over the past two years.

While his talent is unquestioned, Alexander’s durability concerns and hefty contract complicate any potential trade. The Packers would likely need to take on a significant portion of his salary to facilitate a move. Otherwise, a release might be the most viable path, allowing him to hit the open market as a free agent.

Steelers’ Potential Fit

For the Steelers, acquiring Alexander would be a bold but risky move. Pittsburgh has a young and developing secondary, with Joey Porter Jr. as the primary building block. While adding a player of Alexander’s caliber could provide an instant upgrade, his injury history means that the Steelers would need to bolster the position with additional moves rather than relying solely on him as the answer.

If Pittsburgh can negotiate a favorable deal—either through a restructured contract or a team-friendly trade package—Alexander could be a valuable addition. However, the front office must carefully weigh the risk vs. reward in pursuing the talented but injury-prone cornerback.

As the offseason unfolds, the Steelers will continue to explore options to strengthen their secondary, with Jaire Alexander now emerging as a potential piece of that puzzle. Whether they take the leap remains to be seen, but Pittsburgh appears ready to make significant moves as they gear up for the 2025 season.