Jaire Alexander, a cornerback, has been placed on the reserve/suspended list for one NFL game due to behaviour that is detrimental to the team, the Green Bay Packers stated on Wednesday.
This action follows Alexander’s decision to participate in the coin toss prior to the Packers’ Sunday game against the Carolina Panthers, even though he is not the team captain. Alexander’s actions nearly caused a catastrophic error for a team that is vying for a postseason spot.
When the team captains were at midfield in the Packers’ 33-30 victory over the Panthers on the road, Alexander blew the coin toss.
Alexander clarified that Green Bay’s desire to be on defence following the Packers’ toss victory—a distinct action from choosing to defer.
At that point, the referee had to explain Alexander’s selection on behalf of Green Bay. Carolina would have been the team starting the first half of the game if the referee hadn’t intervened and asked Alexander if he had truly intended to defer rather than defend.
Alexander made “a big mistake,” according to Packers head coach Matt LaFleur, in remarks made to media following the game.
Alexander told reporters after the game that he wanted to be there because he’s from Charlotte, but he didn’t seem to be regretting his actions.
“Suspending a player is a difficult choice that we do not make lightly.
“Unfortunately, we had to take this measure because of Jaire’s activities before the game in Carolina. We expect everyone in our organisation to prioritise the team,” Gutekunst continued.
“Although we are sad, Jaire and I had a productive talk this morning, and we anticipate that he will use this as a lesson as we go forward together. He is and will always be a valued member of this team, and we are excited to have him back next week.
