Green Bay Packers suspend Jaire Alexander for coin toss gaffe

Green Bay Packers suspend Jaire Alexander for one game for "conduct detrimental to the team" after pre-game coin toss mistake.

The Green Bay Packers have suspended cornerback Jaire Alexander for one game due to "conduct detrimental to the team," as announced by general manager Brian Gutekunst on Wednesday.

Alexander was placed on the team's reserve/suspended list after he promoted himself to team captain and took part in the pre-game coin toss before the team's Week 16 game against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday.

Gutekunst stated that the decision to suspend a player is never easy and not one they take lightly. He expressed disappointment in Jaire's actions, emphasizing that the organization has an expectation that everyone puts the team first. However, they had a good conversation with Jaire and expect him to learn from this as they move forward together. They look forward to welcoming him back next week, acknowledging his value to the team.

As a result of the suspension, Alexander, who starts at cornerback, will miss the Packers' game against the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday. Both teams are 7-8, and the loser will likely be eliminated from the race for a wild card playoff berth.

Alexander joined the Packers' three designated captains for the pre-game coin toss without head coach Matt LaFleur's knowledge or permission. He won the coin toss but didn't understand the rules, initially stating that he wanted the defense to be on the field. However, he quickly corrected himself, saving the Packers from potentially losing a possession.

Coach LaFleur criticized Alexander for his actions, emphasizing that it was a big mistake and something that should have been reviewed with the players before going out onto the field.

As a result of the suspension, the Packers will be without their best cover cornerback in a crucial game, with Alexander unable to shadow Vikings' star wide receiver Justin Jefferson. This will undoubtedly have an impact on the outcome of the game.