PITTSBURGH -- The Pittsburgh Steelers are among the teams linked to a potential blockbuster trade for Green Bay Packers’ star cornerback Jaire Alexander, sources told ESPN on May 5, 2025. The two-time Pro Bowler’s uncertain future has sparked intrigue across the NFL.
NFL insider Josina Anderson reported that the Packers have engaged in exploratory trade talks involving Alexander, with releasing him also on the table. His $84 million contract and injury-plagued seasons have fueled Green Bay’s willingness to explore options.
Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated named the Steelers, San Francisco 49ers, Kansas City Chiefs, and Los Angeles Rams as potential suitors. These teams, lacking early-round cornerbacks in the 2025 NFL Draft, see Alexander as a game-changer, though his $17.5 million 2025 salary poses challenges.
The Steelers’ secondary, ranked 19th in pass defense (223.4 yards per game) in 2024, boasts Joey Porter Jr., Darius Slay, and Mike Hilton. However, Slay’s age (34) and slot struggles from Beanie Bishop Jr. highlight a need for elite depth, where Alexander could shine.
Alexander’s 2024 season was limited to 7 games due to knee and back injuries, but his 81.2 PFF grade and 5 pass deflections reaffirm his lockdown ability. At 28, he’s a perfect fit for Teryl Austin’s man-heavy scheme, though his sparse slot experience (12% of snaps) raises questions.
Financial hurdles loom large. Pittsburgh’s $32.6 million cap space can absorb Alexander’s deal, but his injury history—missing 27 games over four years—makes teams wary. Breer suggests Alexander prefers a release to choose his destination, complicating trade talks.
Fans on X are buzzing, with posts like “Jaire in Pittsburgh? Secondary unstoppable!” and “$17.5M for an injury risk? Hard pass.” ESPN’s Brooke Pryor noted, “The Steelers love star power, but Khan’s cautious with big contracts.” A restructured deal or Packers absorbing salary could be key.
As OTAs approach, the Steelers’ interest in Alexander signals ambition, but Omar Khan must weigh the cost against draft pick Donte Kent and veterans like Gilmore. For now, Pittsburgh’s dream of pairing Alexander with Porter remains a tantalizing, yet tricky, proposition.
