Ravens sign Alexander: $6M gamble to fix NFL’s 31st-ranked pass defense

The Baltimore Ravens have signed cornerback Jaire Alexander to a one-year deal worth up to $6 million, including $2 million in incentives, in a bid to bolster their struggling pass defense, which ranked 31st in the NFL last season, allowing an average of 244.1 yards per game.

Alexander, 28, was released by the Green Bay Packers on June 9 after two injury-plagued seasons. Despite being an All-Pro in 2020 and 2022, he has played in only 34 of 68 possible games since 2021 due to multiple injuries affecting his groin, back, shoulder, and knee.

Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson publicly urged general manager Eric DeCosta to sign Alexander, emphasizing the need for improvement in the secondary. Jackson said, 'Go get him, Eric.' This endorsement came after a minicamp practice, highlighting the urgency to fix the pass defense.

Alexander's addition strengthens a cornerback group that already includes an All-Pro, a 2024 first-round pick, and a veteran signed this offseason. While his talent is unquestioned, his availability has been a concern in recent years.

The Ravens are gambling on Alexander's health and ability to return to form to address their defensive woes and improve their pass coverage in the upcoming season.

"Talent has never been the question with Alexander. It's availability that's been his bugaboo in recent seasons," sources noted, underscoring the risk involved in the signing.

This move reflects Baltimore's commitment to shoring up a critical weakness and responding to internal calls for reinforcements in the secondary.

The Baltimore Ravens signed cornerback Jaire Alexander to a one-year, $6 million deal, including $2 million in incentives, aiming to improve their NFL’s 31st-ranked pass defense. The move follows quarterback Lamar Jackson’s strong endorsement and Alexander’s recent injury struggles with the Packers.