The Baltimore Ravens are betting that 2025 will be their breakthrough season. Despite multiple strong campaigns during the Lamar Jackson era, each ended in frustration with early playoff exits. After a flurry of offseason moves, Baltimore now appears strategically positioned to launch a deep AFC postseason run.
One major focus this offseason was bolstering the cornerback group. With starter Brandon Stephens departing for the New York Jets, the Ravens moved quickly to strengthen that unit—adding two-time Pro Bowler Jaire Alexander, released by the Packers, on a one-year contract worth up to $6 million ($4M base plus $2M in incentives). Alexander reunites with his former Louisville teammate Lamar Jackson, who was instrumental in bringing him in.
Yet fans and analysts recognize that the truly pivotal figure in the cornerback room may be second-year standout Nate Wiggins. The Ravens used their 2024 first-round pick on Wiggins, whose elite speed and length already have him pegged as a cornerstone of Baltimore’s long-term secondary strategy.