The Baltimore Ravens and head coach John Harbaugh are once again viewed as a top-tier contender in the AFC entering the 2025 NFL season.
After another disappointing finish in the playoffs in 2024, the Ravens have a roster built to win. Led by Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry, the offense is going to be dangerous. On the defensive side of the football, there are more questions.
During the offseason, Baltimore made a key addition in the defensive secondary. Jaire Alexander was signed following his release from the Green Bay Packers.
Alexander, who has dealt with major injury issues over the last couple of years, was brought in to provide playmaking and elite coverage skills. Those were areas the Ravens needed help. Unfortunately, he has been dealing with injury problems throughout training camp and preseason action.
With Week 1 right around the corner, Harbaugh spoke out with a cryptic update about Alexander's status. It's clear that there is no guarantee he'll be good to go for the season opener.
"That would be the key," Harbaugh said about Alexander needing to practice in order to play against the Buffalo Bills.
"So, we'll see where he's at Wednesday. He did some things today."
Those comments will not instill a lot of confidence into the Baltimore fan base. Alexander is still very questionable to play in Week 1, although he clearly has the goal of getting back on the field in time to play.
Over the last two seasons with the Packers, Alexander was only able to play in seven games in each campaign.
Despite only playing in seven games last season with Green Bay, the 28-year-old star cornerback was productive. He racked up 16 tackles, a fumble recovery, two interceptions, a defensive touchdown, and seven defended passes.
Alexander has been one of the best cornerbacks in the NFL when he has been healthy. He's still more than capable of being that player for the Ravens.
Hopefully, a good update follows Harbaugh's comments in the near future. Going up against Josh Allen and the Bills will be no easy task for Baltimore. Alexander being on the field would give them a much better chance to match up against Buffalo.
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