Jaire Alexander Signs with Ravens: What Baltimore Gains from the Former Packers Pro Bowl Cornerback

By Jason Bolton June 24, 2025 09:52

The Baltimore Ravens made a significant splash in the 2025 offseason by signing two-time Pro Bowl cornerback Jaire Alexander to a one-year, $6 million deal, a move that immediately strengthens a secondary that was among the league’s most vulnerable last season. Alexander, released by the Green Bay Packers after seven seasons due to contract disagreements and injury concerns, reunites with former Louisville teammate and Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson, a factor that reportedly played a key role in his decision to join Baltimore.

Alexander’s arrival addresses a glaring weakness for the Ravens, who allowed 4,468 passing yards in 2024 second-worst in the NFL and struggled to contain opposing aerial attacks despite boasting one of the league’s most potent offenses. His reputation as a lockdown corner, highlighted by Pro Bowl selections in 2020 and 2022 and multiple All-Pro nods, brings much-needed experience and versatility to Baltimore’s defensive backfield. Alongside established stars like four-time Pro Bowler Marlon Humphrey and rising safety Kyle Hamilton, Alexander’s presence creates a formidable trio that could transform the Ravens’ pass defense.

Despite his elite pedigree, Alexander’s recent seasons were hampered by injuries, limiting him to just 14 games over the past two years due to knee, shoulder, back, and groin issues. However, the Ravens’ medical staff and coaching staff are optimistic about his health and ability to return to form. Alexander himself has expressed enthusiasm about joining a contender and reuniting with Jackson, emphasizing the importance of playing for a team with Super Bowl aspirations over potentially more lucrative offers elsewhere.

Baltimore’s defensive coordinator now faces the enviable challenge of integrating multiple high-caliber cornerbacks into the lineup. Marlon Humphrey acknowledged this “great problem” of having an abundance of coverage talent, noting, “We got too many corners that can cover... The options are endless. It’s going to be a fun secondary”. This depth allows the Ravens to deploy varied defensive schemes, including press coverage and complex zone looks, which could confuse opposing quarterbacks and elevate the entire defense.

Alexander will wear jersey No. 23, the same number he donned throughout his Packers tenure, symbolizing continuity and confidence as he embarks on this new chapter. His contract includes a $4 million base salary with up to $2 million in performance incentives tied to playing-time thresholds, reflecting a structure that rewards availability and impact.

From a strategic standpoint, Alexander’s skill set complements the Ravens’ aggressive defensive philosophy. Known for his quick feet, physicality, and ball-hawking instincts, he can shadow top receivers and contribute to turnovers—an area where Baltimore struggled last season. His ability to neutralize elite wideouts will be critical in the AFC North, which features dynamic passing attacks from teams like the Cincinnati Bengals and Pittsburgh Steelers.

In summary, Jaire Alexander’s signing represents a pivotal upgrade for the Ravens’ secondary, addressing one of their most pressing needs. His elite coverage skills, combined with a motivated mindset and a familiar connection with Lamar Jackson, position him to make an immediate impact. As Baltimore aims to return to Super Bowl contention, Alexander’s presence could be the difference-maker in shoring up a defense that must rise to match the team’s offensive firepower.