Packers expected to sign former Dolphins 29-INT All-Pro help for playoff push

The Green Bay Packers clinched a playoff spot with a shutout victory over the New Orleans Saints on Monday night. 

The Packers dominated in all three phases of the game and look like a dangerous team heading into the postseason. 

While Green Bay’s offense has been putting up solid numbers all year and their defense has taken massive steps forward with Jeff Haffley as the team’s new DC, there is one glaring need that could hurt the Packers while playing in January. 

The Packers entered Monday night’s game missing three key members of their secondary with cornerback Jaire Alexander (knee) and safeties Evan Williams (quadriceps) and Javon Bullard (ankle) all unable to play. 

The Alexander situation is becoming something to keep an eye on, as it was the fifth consecutive game on the sideline for the former All-Pro.

Alexander practiced all week as full participation. He’s coming off a torn PCL sustained two months ago at Jacksonville, but even with a full week of practice, he wasn’t able to suit up for live game action. 

With his status up in the air — and other holes in the Packers secondary — Bleacher Report’s Matt Holder believes Green Bay should sign former Miami Dolphins CB Xavien Howard. 

Here’s what Holder said: 

The Jaire Alexander situation is, for lack of a better term, weird. He was a full participant in two practices during Week 15 but didn't play in the game and hasn't seen the field much in the second half of the season. He also missed Weeks 4 and 5, so it doesn't seem like the team can rely on him moving forward.

Heading into the playoffs, it would be smart to add another veteran just in case. Patrick Peterson was suggested a couple of weeks ago as he or Howard could be decent options.

Howard was a 4-time Pro Bowl selection for the Miami Dolphins and earned All-Pro honors in 2020. He’s been a free agent for the entire 2024 season.