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Jaire Alexander Shares Emotional Story at Packers, Reveals Why He Agreed to Take Pay Cut to Stay

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Green Bay, WI – May 16, 2025

Green Bay Packers’ star cornerback Jaire Alexander opened up about a touching story that reaffirmed his deep connection to the team, shedding light on why he accepted a $3 million pay cut to stay, sources told ESPN. The decision was inspired by a heartfelt letter from a young fan.

Alexander, a cornerstone of the Packers since 2018, received a letter from 12-year-old Ethan Thompson, a Green Bay native battling leukemia. Ethan wrote after the 2024 season, sharing how Alexander’s defensive plays brought him joy during his treatment at St. Vincent Children’s Hospital.

“Your plays make me feel stronger on my toughest days,” Ethan’s letter read, according to the Green Bay Press-Gazette. “You’re my hero, Jaire.”

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Deeply moved by the words, Alexander visited Ethan in April 2025, spending an afternoon playing catch and talking with the boy’s family. “Ethan’s courage changed my perspective,” Alexander told ESPN. “Football isn’t just about winning—it’s about the hope we bring to fans like him.”

The visit came as Alexander faced a $3 million pay cut to help the Packers manage a $15 million salary cap deficit. Reducing his base salary from $21 million to $18 million, Alexander’s decision now carries profound meaning. “Ethan’s story showed me what this team means to the community,” he said.

Ethan’s mother, Sarah Thompson, expressed her gratitude: “Jaire gave Ethan a reason to keep fighting,” she told The Athletic. “He’s truly a Packer.” The story has resonated deeply with Packers fans, who see Alexander’s loyalty as a reflection of Green Bay’s spirit.

“Jaire is a class act,” said general manager Brian Gutekunst. “His heart is why he’s a foundation of this team.”

As OTAs approach, Alexander’s return bolsters a Packers squad with a defense expected to shine again after an impressive 2024 season. Facing upcoming challenges, Alexander’s story inspires hope for a successful campaign, proving his impact extends far beyond the field.

ADAM SANDLER REFUSES MARRIAGE ADVICE FOR TRAVIS KELCE AND TAYLOR SWIFT: INSISTS KELCE ALREADY HAS THE SECRET
HOLLYWOOD, CA — Adam Sandler isn’t exactly shy when it comes to talking about his long-running marriage to his wife, Jackie—more than 22 years and counting. But when he was recently asked if he had any advice for Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift following their engagement, Sandler kept it simple: no advice necessary. Why? Because in Sandler’s eyes, Kelce’s already doing just fine. ***A REMINDER FOR CHIEFS KINGDOM*** On a related note, if you’re a die-hard Kansas City Chiefs fan and want to show your love for the team, we have epic Chiefs logo merchandise! Click now to support your team."Shop Now" “He loves her more than anything,” Sandler said, comparing Kelce’s devotion to Swift to the love he shares with his own wife. “Just like I love my wife more than anything.” That’s not just a throwaway celebrity soundbite—Sandler’s words came off as genuine, the kind of answer that says more through humility than it does with over-the-top declarations. He went on to explain his outlook on relationships, hinting that the secret isn’t complicated. It's not about offering the perfect romantic advice or forcing picture-perfect moments. At the end of the day, it’s about being real with each other—something he believes Kelce and Swift are already nailing. “To be happy together, be yourself together,” Sandler said. “That’s where they’re at. And that’s where me and my girl are at.” What might surprise some fans is how close Sandler is with both Swift and Kelce. Back in July, he spoke about his friendship with the pop icon and her relationship with his family—especially his daughters. And it doesn’t stop with Swift. Sandler also made a point to shout out Kelce, the All-Pro tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs, for his down-to-earth personality—calling him a “gentle, nice guy” who feels like someone he would’ve grown up with. “He’s like the guys I grew up with,” Sandler said. “When I was with Travis, it reminded me of my buddies in high school and just being able to laugh and say the things you want to say.” Those words carry weight, especially from someone like Sandler, who has made a career out of portraying the kind of friend you’d want in your corner—goofy, loyal, and real to the core. Swift and Kelce, meanwhile, continue to mix their very public lives with moments of surprising normalcy. Just recently, for the first time after announcing their engagement in August, Swift was seen at Arrowhead Stadium cheering Kelce on during the Chiefs’ Week 4 matchup against the Ravens. But this wasn’t some red-carpet moment—Swift showed up incognito, blending in with the crowd, focused on the game and her guy. There’s a lot of glitz surrounding their relationship, but if you ask Sandler, what really matters is what’s happening behind the scenes: two people supporting each other, being themselves. In the end, maybe that's all the advice they need.