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NFL Draft: Re-grading every first round pick from the 2018 NFL Draft

By Hans Themistode

Oct 4, 2020; Arlington, Texas, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) throws a pass in the first quarter against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 4, 2020; Arlington, Texas, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) throws a pass in the first quarter against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jaire Alexander
Jaire Alexander – Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images /

Jaire Alexander. 18. player. 49. . CB. Green Bay Packers

NFL Draft: Re-grading every first round pick from the 2018 NFL Draft: Number 18 overall, CB Jaire Alexander

New face cornerbacks get picked on a lot. Opposing quarterbacks know exactly when a rookie is on the field and try to exploit it each and every time. While it may work in most cases, Jaire Alexander would hear none of it.

The University of Louisville product started off strong in his first year. He was named to the All-Rookie Team thanks to 66 tackles and 11 defended passes. Year two was roughly the same as he provided the Packers with consistency and was seldom thrown on. He was chosen as a Pro Bowl alternate but was officially given his own spot the following year after defending 15 passes and totaling 51 tackles.

The numbers have been impressive but Alexander has quickly learned that you make a name for yourself in the playoffs, not the regular season. In the 2020 postseason, Alexander made his presence known with two interceptions and three defended passes. His efforts, along with all-world quarterback Aaron Rodgers of course, helped lead his team to back-to-back NFC Championship games. They may have come short on both occasions but the once highly criticized defense of the Packers appears to be ready to compete for Super Bowl for years to come.

Grade: A-

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