For the past five seasons, the AFC has been the Kansas City Chiefs’ playground. No matter who rises up – Buffalo, Cincinnati, Baltimore – it always ends the same: Patrick Mahomes hoisting another trophy, the rest of the conference left wondering what more they could’ve done.
Confidence Roars Through Former Three-Time Champ
But this time, something feels different in Baltimore.
Earlier this week, the Ravens sent a message to the rest of the NFL: they’re not here to chase, they’re here to take and get over that hump. That message came in the form of signing two-time Pro Bowl cornerback Jaire Alexander, a move that turned heads across the league, including one from a three-time Super Bowl champion.
“I think the Ravens win the AFC,” said former NFL offensive lineman and current analyst Mark Schlereth. “I love Lamar Jackson, love this offense, love the way they run the football, and I love the way they addressed the defense signing Jaire Alexander… This to me is a HUGE for the Baltimore Ravens. This to me cements them.”
.@markschlereth has the Ravens winning the AFC afte acquiring Jaire Alexander 👀
“All the whiners in Baltimore say, ‘You got to get us more wide receivers… This to me is a HUGE for the Baltimore Ravens. This to me cements them.” pic.twitter.com/IiJTKsPUYk
— Breakfast Ball (@BrkfstBallOnFS1) June 20, 2025
This could be the final component a franchise has been lacking after coming so close yet failing. With a rush defense that allowed less than 90 yards a game the previous season, Baltimore already had one of the best defenses in the league. They were hardy. They had the plan. They got the closer.
Alexander contributes not only his lockdown skills but also his attitude and conviction. And chemistry, above all else. From their time as college athletes at Louisville, the standout cornerback was a teammate and is still close to quarterback Lamar Jackson. It’s a feeling that can connect a locker room and more importantly, give the defense that “X” factor.
Lamar Jackson Endorses Jaire Alexander Signing
Earlier this week, Jackson made a public push for the move. “Go get him, Eric,” he said, speaking directly to GM Eric DeCosta after a minicamp session. That kind of endorsement isn’t common, and clearly, it mattered. Days later, the deal was done.
Currently, the Ravens have one of the NFL’s most talented and deepest rosters. With Jackson’s MVP-caliber ability and a redesigned defense to slow down Mahomes and company, enthusiasm for Baltimore is rising. Furthermore, this confidence comes from a former champion.
However, the road to the Super Bowl still runs through the defending AFC champions. But for the first time in a long time, the Ravens look to be ready to change that script. Baltimore is going beyond earning respect with Jackson at center and Alexander in the secondary; they’re looking to play in the big game.