The Baltimore Ravens have officially made a significant splash in the NFL free agency pool, signing two-time All-Pro cornerback Jaire Alexander. This move, finalized on June 18, 2025, marks a highly anticipated reunion, as Alexander will once again share the field with his former college teammate, Ravens star quarterback and two-time NFL MVP, Lamar Jackson.
The connection between Alexander and Jackson runs deep, dating back to their shared time at the University of Louisville. During their collegiate careers from 2015-2017, Jackson was the electric, Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback who captivated the nation with his unprecedented offensive prowess. Alexander, meanwhile, was a lockdown cornerback, a crucial component of the Cardinals’ defense known for his sticky coverage and confident demeanor. Their bond was evident even during the 2018 NFL Draft, where a viral video captured Alexander’s unbridled excitement as Jackson was selected by the Ravens, moments after Alexander himself had been picked by the Green Bay Packers. That genuine display of friendship resonated with fans, and now, seven years later, that camaraderie will translate to the professional gridiron.
Alexander’s journey to Baltimore follows a successful, albeit recently injury-plagued, seven-year tenure with the Green Bay Packers. Drafted 18th overall in 2018, Alexander quickly established himself as one of the league’s premier cornerbacks, earning Pro Bowl selections in 2020 and 2022, and Second-Team All-Pro honors in both of those seasons. He became renowned for his ability to shadow opposing team’s top receivers, playing with an aggressive, physical style that often stifled their production. His career statistics with Green Bay include 12 interceptions and 70 passes defensed in 78 games, highlighting his playmaking ability.
However, Alexander’s last two seasons with the Packers (2023 and 2024) saw him grapple with injuries that limited his availability, playing in only 14 games combined over that span. These recurring setbacks, including quadriceps, groin, and knee issues, raised questions about his long-term durability and contributed to his eventual release by the Packers on June 9, 2025. This move cleared significant cap space for Green Bay, but immediately put one of the league’s most talented, if recently oft-injured, defensive backs on the open market.
The moment Alexander became available, Lamar Jackson made his intentions clear. In a rare public appeal, Jackson reportedly urged Ravens General Manager Eric DeCosta to “go get” Alexander, even playfully getting on his knees in front of reporters to emphasize his desire. This direct endorsement from the franchise quarterback undoubtedly played a significant role in expediting the signing. It showcases the strong communication and trust within the Ravens organization, where key players’ input is clearly valued.
The Ravens responded swiftly, signing Alexander to a one-year deal worth $4 million base salary, with an additional $2 million available in incentives, totaling up to $6 million. This contract structure is a shrewd move by DeCosta, minimizing the financial risk for a player who has missed time recently, while offering significant upside if Alexander can stay healthy and revert to his All-Pro form. Reports indicate Alexander even turned down more lucrative offers from other teams, a testament to his desire to reunite with Jackson and join a Super Bowl contender. Lamar Jackson was reportedly the first person to greet Alexander upon his arrival at the Ravens’ facility to sign his contract, a fitting and heartwarming welcome.
From a football perspective, Alexander’s acquisition is a major coup for the Ravens’ defense, which was already one of the league’s best in 2024. Under Defensive Coordinator Zach Orr and Head Coach John Harbaugh, Baltimore’s defense is known for its aggressive style, versatility, and ability to generate pressure and turnovers. The addition of a healthy Jaire Alexander immediately elevates their secondary to potentially the best in the NFL.
The Ravens now boast an embarrassment of riches at the cornerback position:
- Marlon Humphrey: A multiple-time Pro Bowl selection, known for his physicality, versatility to play inside or outside, and his elite tackling.
- Jaire Alexander: When healthy, a shutdown man-coverage specialist who can erase an opponent’s top receiver.
- Nate Wiggins: A promising young talent from the 2024 NFL Draft who showed flashes of his high potential in his rookie season and is poised for a significant leap.
- Chidobe Awuzie: Signed earlier in March, Awuzie brings veteran experience and reliable coverage skills, providing excellent depth.
This depth is crucial in today’s pass-heavy NFL, where offenses frequently deploy three, four, or even five wide receivers. Having multiple high-caliber cornerbacks allows defensive coordinators immense flexibility in their schemes. They can confidently play more man-to-man coverage, which frees up safeties to be more aggressive in run support or to blitz the quarterback. It also provides insurance against the inevitable injuries that plague the physically demanding cornerback position over a long NFL season. As Humphrey himself noted, “We got too many corners that can cover” is a statement never uttered in NFL history, and it’s a testament to the Ravens’ luxurious depth at the position.
Beyond the talent, Alexander also brings an infectious energy and leadership to the locker room. His competitive spirit is well-documented, and his familiarity with Lamar Jackson can foster even greater chemistry on the field. This kind of veteran presence, combined with the youth and talent already present, creates a dynamic and cohesive unit.
The signing of Jaire Alexander underscores the Baltimore Ravens’ “all-in” approach to winning a Super Bowl with Lamar Jackson. After falling short in the AFC Championship game in the previous season, the Ravens have made calculated, high-impact moves to fortify their roster. The addition of Alexander to an already stout defense, coupled with offensive reinforcements like veteran wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins and re-signed star running back Derrick Henry, positions the Ravens as a legitimate Super Bowl favorite for the upcoming 2025 season. The reunion of Jackson and Alexander is not just a heartwarming narrative; it’s a strategic chess move that could very well lead the Ravens to their ultimate goal.
