Over the last few years, a bit of a rivalry has bloomed between Minnesota Vikings All-Pro wide receiver Justin Jefferson and Green Bay Packers cornerback Jaire Alexander.
Every opposing corner always has the goal to shut Jefferson down during a game, and Alexander is no exception. But it's actually been a while since the two have lined up from across one another out on the field as Jefferson and Alexander haven't both been healthy for a Vikings matchup with the Packers since Week 17 of the 2022 season.
Unfortunately, it doesn't seem like these two will be facing each other when Minnesota takes on Green Bay on Sunday, as Alexander was limited in Thursday's practice with a knee injury, and Packers head coach Matt LaFleur told reporters "probably not" when asked by reporters if the veteran cornerback has a good chance to suit up this weekend against the Vikings.
Minnesota Vikings getting healthier before Week 17 showdown with the Green Bay Packers
While Alexander isn't expected to take the field for Green Bay on Sunday, two of Minnesota's top defenders are on track to return to action for the contest.
Last week against the Seattle Seahawks, the Vikings were without All-Pro safety Harrison Smith because of a foot injury. But it doesn't seem like the injury will force Smith to miss a second straight game, as he was able to get in a full practice for Minnesota on Thursday.
Then there's Vikings linebacker Ivan Pace Jr., who has been out of action since the team's win over the Chicago Bears in Week 12 because of a hamstring injury. Like Smith, Pace got in a full practice on Thursday, and barring any setbacks, he's expected to play this weekend against Green Bay.
With so much at stake, Sunday's contest inside U.S. Bank Stadium is shaping up to be one of the biggest games in the historic rivalry between the Vikings and Packers. With Alexander unlikely to play and Smith and Pace on track to return, Minnesota has to feel good about its odds to emerge out of the matchup with a victory.