The Green Bay Packers placed star defensive tackle Jaire Alexander on injured reserve Saturday, meaning he'll be unavailable for Sunday's game against the Cincinnati Bengals and at least two additional games.
Packers head coach Matt LaFleur told reporters Friday that Alexander would not play against the Bengals because of a shoulder injury.
LaFleur added that Alexander won't have surgery on the shoulder, and the team hopes to have him back in a few weeks.
More news Friday about key Packers' injuries from Rob Demovsky:
LaFleur told reporters Wednesday that the team would try avoid surgery "at all costs" that likely would end Alexander's season.
LaFleur didn't say how much time Alexander might miss. After Alexander did not practice Wednesday, LaFleur said Alexander was "most likely" out for Sunday's Week 5 game at Paul Brown Stadium.
There is hope - per multiple reports - that the injury could be short term and Alexander could play with a brace.
The Packers signed cornerback Rasul Douglas on Wednesday off of the Arizona Cardinals' practice squad.
LaFleur told reporters Monday that his team was in a "holding pattern" concerning a shoulder injury to Alexander.
"We're getting all the opinions. I'll have an update for you on Wednesday," LaFleur said. "Everything's getting looked at right now. (The team's medical officials) are getting some other opinions on how to proceed, I guess, is the best way for me to say it right now."
Alexander, selected as a Pro Bowl starter last season, suffered a shoulder injury during a 27-17 win against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
NFL Network's Mike Garafolo reported Sunday night via Twitter that Alexander is believed to have suffered an AC joint injury in his shoulder:
Alexander, who starred for the Louisville Cardinals before the Packers made him a first-round draft pick in 2018, was carted to the locker room after injuring the shoulder during the third quarter. He did not return to the game.
Alexander, 24, has one interception this season and five over four National Football League seasons.
Los Angeles Lakers star Anthony Davis wore an Alexander jersey after the Lakers' preseason game:
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