Ravens take bold Jaire Alexander gamble that could flip AFC playoff script

The Baltimore Ravens made the AFC a lot more interesting on Wednesday with the signing of cornerback Jaire Alexander, a roll of the dice on a player with a rich injury history. However, it's the sort of risk that good teams regularly take.

It makes sense why most of those situated outside of Baltimore would shrug at the move. Alexander has only played in 7 games over each of the last two seasons, and has suited up for a total of 31 in the last four seasons. The proof is in the pudding that the Ravens aren't likely going to see Alexander on the field all that often.

However, that's not the point here. Alexander is a high-ceiling talent who made the Pro Bowl in 2022 after playing only 4 games the previous season. He's proven the ability to come back from injury to play at an elite level, and the sensible finances involved (a one-year, $4 million flyer) make it a chance worth taking.

The Ravens inked Alexander on a one-year deal for only $4 million, a chance worth taking for an AFC contender.

Given the depth the Ravens boast at the position, including Chidobe Awuzie, Nate Wiggins, and Marlon Humphrey, the team doesn't need to force anything when it comes to Alexander's availability. If he's healthy, then that's a bonus, but the Ravens can also slow play any concerns until the season's home stretch (or even later).

Even if Alexander is nothing but a postseason play, that's money well spent for the Ravens. Given that Baltimore will have to contend with some (likely) mix of Patrick Mahomes, C.J. Stroud, Josh Allen, and others, the presence of Alexander in the secondary is only going to allow Baltimore's already vaunted defense to be that much more dangerous.

It's possible that Alexander is unable to hold onto the fluidity and athleticism that has allowed him to make a name for himself with the Green Bay Packers. That's fine. If it's a loss, it comes with no long-term ramifications for the Ravens at all. It's a half million more than the Chiefs will pay Joshua Williams in 2025.