OWINGS MILLS, Md. — The Baltimore Ravens have made a significant move in the offseason, signing former Green Bay Packers cornerback Jaire Alexander to a one-year deal that could potentially reach $6 million, including $2 million in performance incentives. This decision comes as a response to quarterback Lamar Jackson’s strong push for the signing, making his intentions clear after minicamp practice: “Go get him, Eric,” he urged Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta.
Jackson and Alexander share a strong bond, having played together at Louisville from 2015 to 2017, which only adds to the excitement surrounding this move. Following the deal, Ravens’ social media showcased a celebratory moment between the two, featuring high-fives and an enthusiastic hug, emphasizing their connection and the on-field chemistry that could reignite.
At 28, Alexander brings a wealth of talent to the Ravens, despite a recent history plagued by injuries that limited him to 34 games out of a possible 68 since the 2021 season. However, he’s no stranger to excellence; an All-Pro selection in both 2020 and 2022, he exemplifies the kind of game-changing presence that can elevate a team’s defense. His prior $17.5 million contract with the Packers was not guaranteed, allowing him to enter the market and find a fresh start in Baltimore.
If he can stay healthy, Alexander could be the key piece in transforming the Ravens’ secondary, which is already filled with promise. Pairing him with fellow first-round picks, including Marlon Humphrey and Nate Wiggins at cornerback and Kyle Hamilton and Malaki Starks at safety, sets the stage for one of the most formidable defensive backfields in the NFL. The ideal alignment might see Alexander and Wiggins on the outside, while Humphrey takes on the critical role of slot cornerback, adding further depth to this revamped unit.
The Ravens have struggled defensively, particularly in the passing game, ranking 31st in the league last season while allowing 244.1 yards per game. However, the offseason has been marked by efforts to correct these shortcomings. Hiring Chuck Pagano as the senior secondary coach, drafting Starks, and now bringing in Alexander shows a clear commitment to turning the tide.
As a former No. 18 overall draft pick in 2018, Alexander boasts impressive stats: 287 tackles, 12 interceptions, and 70 passes defensed. His skill set and potential to perform at a high level could be exactly what the Ravens need as they look to bolster their defense and make a deeper playoff push this season. With Alexander in the fold, the Ravens are poised to turn the page on their defensive struggles and put opposition offenses on high alert.
