Green Bay Packers: 5 Breakout players set to shine in 2019
By Joe Kipp
3. Jaire Alexander, CB
After a promising rookie season in 2018, cornerback Jaire Alexander looks poised to take the next step in Year 2 of his young NFL career. Just ask Alexander himself, who said this earlier in the offseason he envisions himself as an All-Pro and Pro Bowler in 2019 (per Packers Wire):
"“I just want to have a good year. I see myself in the Pro Bowl. I see myself as an All-Pro. I’ve got all the confidence in the world. Last year was a great starting point for me, but this year is going to be my dog year. I’m ready to put my stamp on this.”"
The former 2018 first-round selection has never lacked confidence, as evidenced by his bold prediction of that he’ll be an All-Pro caliber player in 2019. It’s not just confidence in himself, either.
Alexander has been one of the clear-cut leaders on defense over training camp and the preseason. With the surprise departure of Mike Daniels right before training camp began, Alexander has stepped into the role of leading by example.
Still just 22 years old, the sky is the limit for Green Bay’s young, No. 1 cornerback. Alexander will be counted on to take away opposing teams’ No. 1 receivers all season long, many times without any safety help. One-on-one man coverage is a staple part of Packers defensive coordinator Mike Pettine’s attacking 3-4 scheme and Alexander is an ideal fit for the job.