Jaire Alexander was supposed to solve problems, not create new debates. The two-time All-Pro cornerback’s move to Baltimore on a bargain deal had Ravens fans dreaming of championship glory. Then Nick Wright stepped in with a reality check that’s got everyone talking.
Why Doesn’t Nick Wright Think Jaire Alexander Makes Baltimore Elite?
Alexander has been among the best cornerbacks in the NFL when healthy. The two-time Pro Bowler corner has struggled to stay on the field, however, as he appeared in just four games in 2021 and seven games in each of the past two seasons.
While he was once a key part of the Green Bay Packers’ defense, his recent injury struggles and inability to stay on the field led the franchise to release him earlier this offseason after the two sides failed to agree to a new deal. Alexander wound up joining the Baltimore Ravens on a one-year, $4 million contract that includes incentives, which could bring the total value to $6 million.
The move has drawn plenty of praise, as it is a low-risk, high-reward deal that could provide a boost to an already strong roster. However, a sports media personality strongly disagrees with the claims that the Ravens now have the best roster in the league.
Alexander joins an already stacked Ravens roster that finished third in the league in scoring offense, first in total yards, ninth in scoring defense, and tenth in total yards allowed. Their offense ranked second in the NFL, according to PFSN’s Offense+ metric. Meanwhile, PFSN’s Defense+ metric ranked their defense eighth in the league. They also had the NFL’s top quarterback, as PFSN’s QB+ metric ranked Lamar Jackson first overall.
Despite the balanced nature of their roster, Nick Wright of “First Things First” does not believe they have the best unit in the league, stating:
“I think it’s ridiculous. I don’t think they had the best roster last year and the roster probably got, marginally, just a touch worse from last year. Their biggest addition is DeAndre Hopkins… I was looking at the offensive side. On the defensive side, definitely Jaire, but I don’t think he is, to me, a massive addition. I think Jaire Alexander, there is a reason Green Bay was — I don’t think it’s just attitude. I think the last couple of years he hasn’t been a great player. I think he’s still a good player, but I just don’t think he’s been a great player.”
.@getnickwright says it’s “ridiculous” to say the Ravens have the best roster in the league:
“I think its ridiculous. I don’t think they had the best roster last year, and the roster probably got marginally, just a touch worse… Their biggest addition is DeAndre Hopkins.” pic.twitter.com/QCPN6OOFz1
— First Things First (@FTFonFS1) July 21, 2025
Wright claimed that the Philadelphia Eagles, Kansas City Chiefs, and Buffalo Bills all have better rosters than the Ravens. He added that he ranks Baltimore in the same tier as the Detroit Lions — claiming both teams are well-rounded but have holes.
Can Alexander Still Play at an All-Pro Level?
Alexander has had issues staying on the field. However, he was productive in his limited time in 2024. He recorded 16 total tackles, 15 solo tackles, two interceptions, one of which he returned for a touchdown, one fumble recovery, and seven passes defended in seven games played.
The numbers show Alexander can still make plays when healthy. The question remains whether he can stay on the field long enough to make the difference Baltimore needs for a championship run.
