The Baltimore Ravens have built their franchise's reputation on defense, but in 2024, and while their defense this year eventually fit the bill, one glaring weak spot undermined its legacy: Brandon Stephens. While Stephens showed grit and resilience, his numbers told a different story—one that likely had opposing quarterbacks circling his name on game plans every week.
Ravens fans deserve better than watching their secondary crumble under deep-ball barrages.
Luckily, the perfect solution might be on the horizon. Jaire Alexander, a two-time All-Pro cornerback and Lamar Jackson’s former teammate at Louisville seems poised to leave Green Bay after a frustrating loss to the Philadelphia Eagles in the Wild Card round.
A reunion between Jackson and Alexander isn’t just a feel-good story—it’s a move that could elevate Baltimore’s secondary into the NFL’s elite.
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— Kevin Oestreicher (@koestreicher34) January 13, 2025
Baltimore’s defense thrives on accountability and making game-changing plays when it counts. Effort alone isn’t enough, and Stephens, despite his undeniable determination, wasn't able to rise to the challenge. With his free agency approaching, the Ravens have a prime opportunity to bring in Jaire Alexander and transform their secondary.
Brandon Stephens' struggles show it's time for an upgrade
Let’s not sugarcoat it—Stephens has been targeted all season, and for good reason. Opposing quarterbacks feasted on him like it was Thanksgiving, posting a brutal 13.7 yards per completion and 8.9 yards per target while throwing four touchdowns his way. High-profile burnings, like Ja’Marr Chase going nuclear for 264 yards and three scores or making George Pickens look like Randy Moss, were far too common.
Stephens’ struggles aren’t just a bad look—they’re a liability for a Ravens team with Super Bowl aspirations. Defensive coordinator Zach Orr sees the liability, noting: "We love that teams are trying to challenge him, and we know that he's up for the challenge. He's been prepared, [and] he's been locked in. It was funny, me and [head] coach [John] Harbaugh [were] just talking earlier during practice about how locked in and how good he's looked. We [are] confident, and we [are] excited, and I'm ready to go see him ball out Saturday."
While Orr's comments highlight Stephens' mental toughness, they don't necessarily dispute the broader concerns about his performance, which has been a recurring issue throughout the season. Baltimore needs more than a corner with a short memory; they need one who doesn’t give up big plays in the first place.
Enter Jaire Alexander.
Alexander is everything the Ravens could want in a cornerback: shutdown ability, elite instincts, and the swagger to back it all up. Pairing him with Marlon Humphrey would create a nightmare scenario for opposing offenses, while rookie standout Nate Wiggins could continue to develop without the weight of carrying the secondary. Add Kyle Hamilton and Ar’Darius Washington patrolling the deep third, and suddenly, the Ravens’ back end transforms into an impenetrable fortress.
Alexander’s potential departure from Green Bay feels inevitable. Injury issues, contract disputes, and a strained relationship with the Packers make him a prime target for a team like Baltimore. Just imagine him suiting up alongside his old Louisville teammate Lamar Jackson, rekindling the vibes that made them stars in college.
It’s the kind of move that could shift the Ravens' defense from borderline elite to outright terrifying.
Before dreaming too far ahead, though, the immediate focus remains on the Divisional Round. Josh Allen and the Bills will undoubtedly target Stephens relentlessly—it’s the obvious strategy given his struggles this season. For Stephens, this game represents a crossroads: a chance to redeem himself or risk cementing his reputation as the weak link. The stakes couldn’t be higher.
Eric DeCosta, the ball’s in your court. Make the call.