After a disastrous coin toss, Jaire Alexander of the Green Bay Packers was suspended for one game.
Cornerback Jaire Alexander of the Green Bay Packers was placed on the reserve/suspended list for one NFL game due to behaviour that was detrimental to the organisation, the team stated on Wednesday.
The measure was taken when Alexander, who isn’t the team captain, inserted himself into the coin toss before the Packers’ Sunday game against the Carolina Panthers. His efforts nearly caused a huge mistake for a team that is vying for a postseason spot.
When the team captains were at midfield in the Packers’ 33-30 victory over the Panthers on the road, Alexander blew the coin toss.
Alexander clarified that Green Bay wanted to be on defence after the Packers won the toss, which is not the same as choosing to delay.
The referee was then required to explain Alexander’s selection on behalf of Green Bay. Carolina would have started both halves with the football if the referee hadn’t intervened to inquire as to whether Alexander had truly intended to defer rather than defend.
Alexander’s actions were described as “a tremendous mistake” by Packers head coach Matt LaFleur to media following the game.
Alexander, who is from Charlotte, told reporters after the game that he wanted to be there, but he didn’t seem to feel any regret.
When the suspension was made public on Wednesday, Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst stated in a statement, “The decision to suspend a player is never easy and not one we take lightly.”
“Unfortunately, we had to take this measure because of Jaire’s activities before the game in Carolina. We expect everyone in our organisation to prioritise the team,” Gutekunst continued.
“Although we are sad, Jaire and I had a productive talk this morning, and we anticipate that he will use this as a lesson as we go forward together. He is and will always be a valued member of this team, and we are excited to have him back next week.
