They may not be at 100% — or even close. But Green Bay cornerback Jaire Alexander and wideout Christian Watson are both active for the Packers’ wild card matchup at Dallas today at 3:30 p.m. The availability of both standouts means the Packers will have 20 of their 22 preferred starters from Week 1 available today.
Alexander did not practice on Thursday or Friday after he sprained his ankle during practice on Wednesday. That was only the most recent development in Alexander’s otherwise unsuccessful season as the highest-paid cornerback in the NFL.
Due to back and shoulder problems, Alexander has only appeared in seven games this season. He also served a one-game suspension for insubordination.
Alexander didn’t play like the Pro Bowl player he used to be, even when he did play. He hasn’t had an interception, his tackling has been poor, and he has only had five pass breakups.
But Alexander can erase the memories of his dismal regular season with a strong showing today.
This season, CeeDee Lamb of Dallas has amassed 135 receptions, 1,749 yards, and 12 touchdowns, making him the finest wide receiver in football. Lamb has caught 26 catches for 325 yards and three touchdowns in just his last two games.
The Packers defense has an opportunity to win if Alexander can contain Lamb and follow him.
Packers defensive coordinator Joe Barry stated, “Of course, you want a Jaire Alexander playing for you any week, especially this week when you’re playing against a guy like No. 4 (Dak Prescott) and 88 (CeeDee Lamb), and Brandin Cooks and the whole crew.”
After struggling with hamstring problems in his first two seasons, Watson hurt his hamstring again against Kansas City on December 3 and hasn’t been able to play since.
Watson has missed eight games in 2023 despite having 28 receptions and five touchdowns this season. With the rise of Jayden Reed, Dontayvion Wicks, and Bo Melton, the Packers haven’t lost a beat, but Watson offers a level of pace that the others can’t match.
“After recovering from the soft tissue issues, there are a few kinks to sort out, but I have to be ready to play at a level that will help the team and not put us in a worse situation. Therefore, I’m not thinking about it in terms of needing to be perfect, but rather in terms of needing to be able to leave a great impression.
Running back AJ Dillon and wide receiver Malik Heath are not in action for Green Bay. Linebacker Brenton Cox, safety Benny Sapp, offensive tackle Caleb Jones, and cornerback David Long.
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