Heading into the 2023 season, there is a very clear path to success for the Green Bay Packers. They are going to be relying heavily on their defense to lead them to victories, at least in the early going of the season.
The Packers have a very inexperienced offensive group headlined by first-time starting quarterback, Jordan Love. He is surrounded by a wide receiver depth chart that not a single person has more than one year of NFL experience and a tight end group that could be topped by two rookies.
There will almost certainly be some bumps in the road as that unit works on building chemistry and cohesion with so many inexperienced players in important spots. Luckily for the Packers, they have some truly impressive numbers to rely on defensively.
According to PFF, the one to know for the 2023 season is the grade of cornerback, Jaire Alexander. A first-round pick in 2018 out of Louisville, Alexander has cemented himself as one of the top cover corners in the NFL.
“Jaire Alexander, undoubtedly one of the best cornerbacks in football, brings lockdown ability to the Packers’ defense. Alexander’s 91.9 coverage grade since 2018 is tied with Stephon Gilmore for the best among all cornerbacks.
The Packers will need to rely on their defense to win games as their incredibly young offense rounds into form. Alexander’s ability to shut down half the field is a major asset. Still just 26 years old, he has plenty more seasons of elite play ahead of him.”
Being in the same class as Stephon Gilmore, who won the Defensive Player of the Year award for the 2019 season, is an honor for any cornerback. He has been consistent throughout his career and the Packers can only hope for the same from Alexander.
Defensive coordinator Joe Barry’s job is made much easier with a player as talented as Alexander leading his secondary. His talents aren’t relegated to only one side of the field, either, as the presence of Rasul Douglas and Eric Stokes enables Alexander to travel and shadow the opposing team’s No. 1 receiver should the need arise.
Last season, the crowning achievement for Alexander was helping hold Minnesota Vikings star wide receiver Justin Jefferson to one reception for 15 yards. It was part of what turned into the second Pro Bowl and All-Pro Season Team season for Alexander of his career.
