Gerald

Alexander

Alexander spent five years in the NFL as a safety before quickly transitioning to coaching. The 41-year-old spent seven seasons in the college ranks before joining the Dolphins as a defensive backs coach in 2021. Brian Flores, the Vikings defensive coordinator, was Miami’s head coach at the time, so the Vikings know who they’re getting in Alexander. He also coached defensive backs with the Steelers and Raiders.

Alexander joined the Raiders’ staff in late January but could already be on the move. Alexander joined the NFL coaching ranks in 2020 as the Dolphins’ defensive backs coach, and served as the Steelers assistant defensive backs coach from 2022 to 2023. The 49ers don’t appear to be in a rush to fill their defensive coordinator role, as interviews have felt few and far between since the team fired Steve Wilks after the Super Bowl loss to the Chiefs.

Alexander was on the street until October of last year when the Dolphins picked him up for two games. Then the Jets added him for mere depth. Alexander is only 27, but there are major talent concerns here.

Alexander played two games with the Dolphins this season before being waived in early November. He’ll add depth behind Brodney Pool in three-safety sets with Jim Leonhard (knee) out for the season.

Alexander was signed two weeks to add depth with Reshad Jones (knee) and Chris Clemons (hamstring) banged up. Both players are healthy now, leaving Alexander as more of a luxury than necessity.

Alexander was released at final cuts after a four-day stint in Dolphins camp. He’s made 30 career starts, but has proven a fringe NFL talent. Ex-Lions GM Matt Millen selected Alexander in the second round of the 2007 draft.

Kennedy isn’t a particularly good fit for the Cover 2 scheme and isn’t the hitter he once was. Daniel Bullocks is naturally a strong safety, so getting him time there would likely be the best for Detroit if it’s clearly out of the playoff hunt.

The second-round pick is a physical presence, but lacks elite speed. He could grow into a fine player, but Alexander may be a liability as a rookie.

Alexander, a Boise State product, could evolve into either a cornerback or a safety down the line but will play the latter position initially. Ideally, he’d be the Lions’ free safety of the future with Daniel Bullocks on the strong side.