Two-time Pro Bowl cornerback Jaire Alexander, a former Louisville teammate of Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson, has become available in 2025 NFL free agency—and Baltimore has a compelling reason to explore signing him.
Alexander, though highly talented, has struggled with injuries, making his potential addition both risky and intriguing for the Ravens. Baltimore currently lacks a reliable veteran presence behind star cornerback Marlon Humphrey and new addition Chidobe Awuzie, who himself has battled injuries and played in just eight games in two of the last three seasons. Alexander, similarly, has appeared in only seven games over the past two seasons and has missed 34 games since 2021.
Despite his injury history, Jeff Zrebiec of The Athletic believes Alexander could be worth a look, if the price and health checks align. The main challenge with signing the 28-year-old is how it might impact the development of promising young corners, especially second-year standout Nate Wiggins.
Ravens Have Philosophical Justification
Baltimore’s front office operates under a long-standing philosophy: you can never have too many quality cornerbacks. Former GM Ozzie Newsome once famously said, “When you think you have enough, add one more.” That mindset could justify the risk in signing Alexander, even with the current depth chart.
Wiggins and Humphrey are expected to be starters, with Awuzie handling outside duties when Humphrey slides into the slot. However, one injury could leave defensive coordinator Zach Orr and secondary coach Chuck Pagano relying on a group of untested players.
Adding Alexander could stabilize the group assuming he returns to his former high level of play. ESPN’s Benjamin Solak noted Alexander may no longer be suited for top cornerback duties, but his zone coverage and ball skills could still make him a strong CB2 if he plays with discipline.
There’s urgency to act. According to NFL Insider Josina Anderson, six teams reached out about Alexander after his release from the Packers. One of them is reportedly the Buffalo Bills, who defeated the Ravens in last year’s playoffs. Beating out another AFC contender would be a savvy move by GM Eric DeCosta.
Ravens Still Need Depth at Corner
While Baltimore is betting on Wiggins to take a leap, the rest of the cornerback room remains unproven. Beyond Humphrey and Awuzie, the depth includes recent fourth-rounders T.J. Tampa and Jalyn Armour-Davis, and sixth-round rookies Bilhal Kone and Robert Longerbeam.
This group offers long-term potential, but there’s no guarantee they’ll be ready in the short term. Signing Alexander could hinder some development, yet the larger gamble might be heading into the season lacking veteran quality at such a crucial position.
