Ravens Secure Jaire Alexander to Fortify Secondary

The Baltimore Ravens have successfully signed veteran cornerback Jaire Alexander, reinforcing their depth-concerning secondary and reuniting him with former University of Louisville teammate Lamar Jackson. As reported from multiple sources, Alexander’s contract is a one-year agreement valued at $6 million.

Alexander, 28, was let go by the Green Bay Packers last week after failing to agree on a contract restructure. This move concluded his seven-year tenure with the NFC team where he achieved fame by making two Pro Bowl appearances and briefly held the title of the NFL’s highest-paid cornerback in 2022, before injuries impacted his performance. Over the last two seasons, Alexander missed 20 games.

The Ravens were anticipated to be contenders for Alexander. Baltimore’s leadership often advocates for having a wealth of skilled cornerbacks, especially given the uncertainties following starters Marlon Humphrey and Nate Wiggins. Offseason acquisition Chidobe Awuzie was poised to be the third corner, despite his age of 30 and having played just one game more than Alexander last season.

Alexander will have to demonstrate that his physical setbacks haven’t significantly affected his performance. When he was last healthy in the 2022 season, Alexander recorded five interceptions, 14 pass deflections, and earned a Pro Bowl spot.

Expecting that level of performance might be ambitious for the Ravens. Yet, adding another experienced cornerback is undoubtedly beneficial, especially since they’ve lost three seasoned players from last year’s defense.

This strategic move typifies general manager Eric DeCosta and the Ravens’ approach of acquiring notable veterans at reasonable costs later in the offseason, often seeing them blossom into vital players. While it was assumed Baltimore would show interest in Alexander — a player they’ve long admired — there was uncertainty about their offer’s competitiveness due to tight salary cap constraints.

The Ravens’ consistent playoff presence and reputation as a haven for veteran players likely played a role in securing Alexander’s interest. Lamar Jackson’s connection probably had an influence too. Furthermore, considering that the Ravens are scheduled to face the Packers at Lambeau Field in late December might have added appeal.

With Alexander’s addition, the Ravens’ secondary stands poised to be a formidable force in the league. John Harbaugh, the Ravens’ head coach, can deploy Alexander and Wiggins on the outside, with Humphrey playing inside, a position that suits him well at this stage in his career.