OWINGS MILLS, Md. — Jaire Alexander, the Baltimore Ravens’ newest cornerback, turned heads during the opening day of training camp with a standout performance that showcased his elite skills and swagger. The two-time Pro Bowler, signed to a one-year, $6 million deal in June, broke up two passes and displayed the confidence that has defined his career, earning praise from teammates and coaches alike. Jaire Alexander’s debut was one for the books.
Alexander, 28, wasted no time making an impact. He disrupted a pass intended for veteran receiver Keith Kirkwood in the middle of the field and later stayed step-for-step with Dayton Wade down the sideline, knocking away another throw. After his first pass breakup, Alexander celebrated with animated gestures toward the fans, signaling his return to form after injury-plagued seasons with the Green Bay Packers.
Quarterback Lamar Jackson, Alexander’s former teammate at Louisville from 2015 to 2017, tested his old friend early in practice. Jackson targeted star receiver DeAndre Hopkins on a fade route, but Alexander’s tight coverage forced the pass out of bounds. Jackson, a two-time NFL MVP, grinned post-practice, noting Alexander’s tenacity. He described their college days, where the duo forged a bond on and off the field, with Alexander’s competitive fire complementing Jackson’s dynamic playmaking.
Jackson personally urged Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta to sign Alexander, a move that materialized within 24 hours of his public plea.
Linebacker Roquan Smith, the defensive anchor for Baltimore, lauded Alexander’s addition as a game-changer. Smith, who has led the Ravens in tackles since his 2022 trade to the team, highlighted the depth and versatility Alexander brings to an already talented secondary. He emphasized the potential of a defensive backfield featuring Alexander alongside Marlon Humphrey, Nate Wiggins, Kyle Hamilton, and rookie Malaki Starks. Smith noted that Alexander’s ability to lock down receivers, regardless of their size or speed, elevates the entire unit. He expressed excitement about the opportunity to play alongside such a dynamic group, calling it the most talented defense he has been part of.
Alexander’s performance comes at a critical time for the Ravens, who struggled with pass defense last season, ranking 31st in the NFL with 244.1 passing yards allowed per game. His addition bolsters a secondary that now boasts five first-round picks, including Humphrey and Wiggins at cornerback and Hamilton and Starks at safety. Coach John Harbaugh praised Alexander’s leaping play on the sideline, emphasizing its importance in winning games in tight coverage situations. Alexander’s swagger, evident when he glared confidently after jumping a route in press coverage, fits seamlessly with the Ravens’ defensive identity.
Jaire Alexander’s primed for a big season?
The Ravens, who open their season Sept. 7 against the Buffalo Bills, view Alexander as a low-risk, high-reward signing. Despite missing 34 games over the past four seasons due to injuries, his 89.5 coverage grade over the last three years ranks among the NFL’s best. If Alexander maintains his health, Baltimore’s secondary could transform into one of the league’s elite units, setting the stage for a deep playoff run.
Everything you need to know for NFL Training Camp.
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