The NFL world was stunned when the Green Bay Packers released star cornerback Jaire Alexander, a 28-year-old defensive back known for his electrifying play but plagued by injuries in recent years. For Minnesota Vikings fans, Alexander’s departure from their NFC North rival was bittersweet. His fierce rivalry with Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson has been a highlight of their matchups, and now, that battle is set to continue in a new context during the 2025 NFL season
On Wednesday, NFL Insider Adam Schefter announced via X that Alexander has signed a one-year, $6 million deal with the Baltimore Ravens, reuniting him with his college teammate, Lamar Jackson. Despite receiving larger offers from other teams, Alexander opted for Baltimore, a steal for the Ravens given his sky-high potential. If he can stay healthy, Alexander’s addition could solidify Baltimore’s defense as one of the league’s most formidable units.
Compensation update: Former Packers CB Jaire Alexander signed a one-year, $6 million deal with the Ravens. He turned down more to be in Baltimore with his former college teammate, Lamar Jackson. pic.twitter.com/AWaYoeXh6k
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) June 18, 2025
Interestingly, reports surfaced that the Minnesota Vikings were among the teams inquiring about Alexander’s services for 2025, according to KSTP and SKOR North’s Darren Wolfson on X. While the Vikings ultimately missed out, they’ll still face their former nemesis in Week 10 when the Ravens visit U.S. Bank Stadium for a noon kickoff on November 9, 2025. Alexander will don purple, but it’ll be the Ravens’ shade, not Minnesota’s.
This matchup marks Alexander’s tenth career game against the Vikings since entering the NFL as a first-round pick by the Packers in 2018. Known for his ability to disrupt passing games, Alexander is expected to play a pivotal role in containing Justin Jefferson while also facing Minnesota’s young quarterback, J.J. McCarthy. The stakes are high for both sides in this rare interconference clash.
The Vikings, despite missing out on Alexander, are well-equipped at cornerback with Byron Murphy Jr., Isaiah Rodgers, Mekhi Blackmon, Dwight McGlothern, Jeff Okudah, and others ready to step up. Still, Alexander’s experience and flair could have bolstered their secondary, making his decision to join Baltimore all the more intriguing.
They did inquire late last week, and in March.
— Darren Wolfson (@DWolfsonKSTP) June 18, 2025
Adding to the narrative, the Vikings and Ravens rarely cross paths. Baltimore has played Minnesota just seven times in NFL history, the second-fewest of any team against the Vikings, trailing only the Houston Texans (six games, all won by Minnesota). With a 4-3 record in their favor against Baltimore, the Vikings face a unique challenge in 2025, amplified by Alexander’s presence on the Ravens’ roster.
As Week 10 approaches, all eyes will be on the renewed showdown between Jaire Alexander and Justin Jefferson. After years of evading Minnesota’s grasp, Alexander now finds himself cornered, with nowhere left to hide on the field at U.S. Bank Stadium. This game promises to be a thrilling chapter in their storied rivalry.