The Baltimore Ravens will be without Pro Bowl-level starters like Lamar Jackson, Roquan Smith, and Marlon Humphrey on Sunday against the Houston Texans. Several other players’ statuses are also in question, which will likely force many young players and injury-hit veterans into action.
With Humphrey and Chidobe Awuzie not being able to suit up in Week 5, it is believed that veteran cornerback Jaire Alexander will see his first bit of action since a dreadful Week 1 performance. His Ravens’ debut was one to forget, and while many believe the injuries have ruined his career, he will have a chance to change that narrative against Houston.
Baltimore elevated quarterback Tyler Huntley and defensive tackle C.J. Okoye from the practice squad on Saturday. The two are expected to play key depth roles as the Ravens continue to navigate their injury struggles. However, they did not make any moves to add depth to a depleted secondary. That appears to be good news for Alexander’s Week 5 status.
I imagine the Ravens will want to get a look at how Hamilton is moving around with his groin injury pregame, but not adding a DB suggests some level of confidence that he'll play tomorrow.
— Jeff Zrebiec (@jeffzrebiec) October 4, 2025
It also confirms that CB Jaire Alexander will return to the Ravens game day lineup. https://t.co/gWXfbTNzNk
Jaire Alexander may finally see crucial opportunity in Week 5
Alexander posted a 29.8 Pro Football Focus grade on 33 snaps in Week 1 against the Buffalo Bills. He was picked on late in the contest by second-year wide receiver Keon Coleman, and it was clear he was not fully healthy. Since that showing, he has taken the opportunity to recover from his nagging knee injury. If the coaching staff declares him good to go on Sunday, he will be a crucial piece on a struggling defense.
The secondary especially needs help. They will have several young contributors, including undrafted rookie Keyon Martin, second-year pro T.J. Tampa, and maybe even undrafted safety Reuben Lowery, depending on Kyle Hamilton’s health. Even if Alexander continues to find struggles, his presence alone would mean a ton to a largely inexperienced unit against the Texans.
The Alexander signing looks rough right now. It is one of the more disappointing moves of the offseason thus far, but there is still plenty of time to turn it around. Baltimore only signed him to a one-year deal worth up to $6 million in June, so even if it does not pan out, it is not a huge miss, but the veteran will be out to prove himself on Sunday. He may finally be healthy, and if he is, he will see plenty of playing time and be a key contributor.