After the game, Packers head coach Matt LaFleur labeled Alexander’s actions “a big mistake,” but subsequently explained that the decision to suspend him had “nothing to do with the whole incident” and implied it was the result of other concerns.
“I’ll just say this: It’s never for one thing,” LaFleur explained on Wednesday. “However, as I previously stated, I believe there will be many lessons along the way for everyone involved, and hopefully we will learn from them.” I believe we will, and that communication will improve in the future. And, as I already stated, I believe Ja will be here for a long time. He’s a great player who is simply seeking to go on and learn from this, and we’ll all be better for it.”
The Packers will now be without Alexander in Week 17’s must-win game against Justin Jefferson and the Minnesota Vikings.
Messages on Jaire Alexander’s Suspension from the Packers
The Packers have now issued two statements regarding Alexander’s suspension. The coin-flip incident in Week 16 had “nothing to do” with the team suspending Alexander for one game, according to LaFleur, but general manager Brian Gutekunst implied in his statement on the suspension that Alexander’s actions had at least some factor in the decision.
“Unfortunately, Jaire’s actions prior to the Carolina game led us to take this step,” Gutekunst wrote on December 27. “As a company, we expect everyone to prioritize the team. While we are sad, we had a good talk with Jaire [on Wednesday] morning and fully expect him to learn from this as we work together in the future. We look forward to welcoming him back next week since he is and will continue to be an important member of this squad.”
In any case, it adds to what has been a perplexing season for Alexander. Prior to his return against the Panthers in Week 17, he had missed six consecutive games due to a shoulder ailment. During that time, he only missed four practices and was listed as “questionable” on the injury report for three of the six games he missed.
Nonetheless, like the coin-flip drama, LaFleur insists that Alexander’s injury problems and subsequent availability issues had “nothing to do” with their decision to suspend him.
“Obviously, it’s been a frustrating year for him,” said LaFleur. “And, by no means — and I want to be clear about this — it has nothing to do with him not being able to play.” It has been well reported that he has been battling, therefore it has nothing to do with that. It’s just that every action has the potential for a repercussion.”
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