Ravens Land Pro Bowl CB Jaire Alexander
The Baltimore Ravens have officially bolstered their secondary, announcing the signing of two-time Pro Bowl cornerback Jaire Alexander. The move comes swiftly after Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson publicly expressed his desire for the team to pursue his former college teammate from Louisville.
Alexander joins the Ravens on a reported one-year deal, adding significant talent and depth to an already formidable defensive backfield that includes players like Kyle Hamilton and Marlon Humphrey.
Harbaugh Highlights Mutual Interest and Team Improvement
Ravens Head Coach John Harbaugh addressed reporters following the signing, confirming that bringing Alexander to Baltimore had been a process underway “behind the scenes” since Alexander was released by the Green Bay Packers.
Harbaugh emphasized that the interest was mutual. “I know he wanted to be here. We wanted him here,” Harbaugh stated. He noted the positive reaction across the team. “For it to work out the way it did, it made Lamar happy. I think it made everybody happy.”
For the Ravens, the signing represents a clear opportunity to elevate their play. “An opportunity to be a better team in that sense today, so we’re really excited about it,” Harbaugh added, pointing to the immediate boost Alexander provides to the defense.
Player Reactions: Embracing the Depth
Alexander’s arrival has been met with enthusiasm by his new teammates. Safety Kyle Hamilton praised Alexander as “one of the best in this league since he got in it,” highlighting his “super valuable” presence and anticipating his positive impact on the locker room through his energy, charisma, leadership, and football knowledge.
Veteran cornerback Marlon Humphrey also welcomed the addition, drawing parallels between their playing styles based on a shared college coach. Humphrey underscored the strategic advantage of adding top-tier talent to the cornerback room, echoing a common sentiment in the NFL: “We got too many corners that can cover – that’s never been said and probably will never be said in NFL history.” Both players agreed that having exceptional depth in the secondary is a valuable asset, especially given the physical demands of the position and the potential for injuries throughout a long season.
Addressing the Injury Factor
While Alexander brings impressive career statistics (including 12 interceptions and 70 pass breakups during his time in Green Bay), his recent health has been a concern. He was limited to just seven games in each of the past two seasons due to injuries.
The Ravens are aware of this and are proactively addressing it. Harbaugh confirmed that the team has a plan in place with their medical and strength and conditioning staff to help Alexander, along with other recent defensive back acquisitions like Chidobe Awuzie who have also dealt with injuries, stay healthy and on the field.
For the Ravens to fully capitalize on Alexander’s talent and experience, keeping him healthy will be paramount.
What Comes Next
The process of integrating Alexander into the Ravens’ defensive system will begin in earnest at training camp this summer. Ravens veterans are scheduled to report on July 22nd, shortly after rookies arrive. This will provide Alexander his first structured opportunities to practice with his new teammates and coaches.
Adding Alexander fulfills a key request from Lamar Jackson and strategically strengthens a core part of the Ravens’ defense, aiming to enhance their competitiveness as they eye an AFC North title and a deep playoff run in the upcoming season.
