In one of the most buzzworthy decisions of the 2025 NFL offseason, the Chicago Bears have made a bold and calculated move that could significantly alter the balance of power in the NFC North — signing former Green Bay Packers cornerback and two-time Pro Bowler Jaire Alexander.
Released by the Packers just days ago after ongoing injury concerns and a hefty contract dispute, Alexander quickly became one of the most talked-about free agents on the market. Few expected him to remain unsigned for long. Even fewer expected him to land with his former team’s fiercest rival — but that’s exactly what’s happened.
A Rivalry Reignited
The Bears’ decision to bring in Alexander is more than a personnel move — it’s a direct shot across the bow at Green Bay. After spending seven seasons with the Packers, the 28-year-old cornerback is now poised to line up against them in one of the NFL’s most historic and bitter rivalries.
While Alexander’s past two seasons were marred by injuries — missing a combined 21 games — his 2022 campaign remains a reminder of what he’s capable of when fully healthy: 5 interceptions, 14 passes defended, and 56 total tackles. His ball skills, press coverage technique, and ability to shadow No. 1 receivers make him a potential difference-maker in Chicago’s secondary.
A Strategic Fit for Chicago’s Defense
New defensive coordinator Dennis Allen, who arrived in Chicago with a mandate to transform the Bears into a playoff-caliber defense, now has a versatile weapon to work with alongside All-Pro corner Jaylon Johnson and rising nickelback Kyler Gordon.
Alexander brings not only experience and production but also swagger — something this Bears defense has lacked in recent seasons. With Allen expected to implement a more aggressive, press-heavy scheme, Alexander’s style of play is a natural fit.
According to league sources, Alexander agreed to a two-year incentive-laden contract worth up to $26 million, with a base value closer to $17 million — a compromise that reflects both his elite upside and recent durability concerns.
Why It Makes Sense Now
While the Bears have several young corners competing for starting roles — including Tyrique Stevenson, Terell Smith, and rookie Zah Frazier — the addition of a proven veteran allows Chicago to raise the floor of its defense without abandoning its long-term development strategy.
Head coach Ben Johnson, who has been emphasizing a “win-now while building for the future” approach, appears to be following through on that plan. Johnson was reportedly involved in discussions with GM Ian Cunningham, pushing for a defensive signing that could immediately boost Chicago’s competitiveness.
“This is about competition,” one team insider said. “You don’t get better by standing pat. We’re not just building — we’re aiming to win now.”
Shifting the NFC North Landscape
The move sends ripple effects across the NFC North. The Packers, who once viewed Alexander as a cornerstone of their defense, now have to face him twice a year. The Lions and Vikings — both reportedly interested in Alexander — now face a more dangerous Bears defense that has improved significantly over the offseason.
With Chicago already adding key pieces like Dayo Odeyingbo on the edge, re-signing Jaylon Johnson, and continuing to develop a promising young core, this move could be the final piece needed to push the Bears into serious playoff contention.
Looking Ahead
If Jaire Alexander can stay healthy and return to his 2022 form, the Bears may have pulled off one of the smartest, most impactful free-agent signings of the year. And if his presence helps elevate the play of Chicago’s young secondary, the ripple effect could turn this defense into one of the most formidable in the NFC.
One thing is certain: the NFC North just got a lot more interesting — and the Chicago Bears aren’t waiting for the future. They’re coming for it now.
