Another NFL assistant coach is facing team discipline over allegations of drinking and driving. Gerald Alexander, the Minnesota Vikings’ defensive backs coach, has been suspended for three weeks following his guilty plea for DUI earlier this month.
The Vikings confirmed on Tuesday that Alexander’s suspension stems from an incident where a breathalyzer test revealed a blood alcohol level of 0.169, which is more than double the legal limit in Minnesota. Alexander joined the team in February as the passing game coordinator and defensive backs coach.
He was arrested in April and subsequently pleaded guilty to third-degree DUI—a misdemeanor—on July 16, which resulted in fines totaling $603. In addition to serving two years of probation, he is required to complete 48 hours of community service.
Although Alexander’s suspension commenced on July 24, the announcement came later. The Vikings stated, “Following Gerard’s arrest earlier this spring, we continued to communicate with the NFL while awaiting the outcome of the legal proceedings. We take these situations seriously and believe this disciplinary action is appropriate.”
The NFL informed that this suspension resolves the issue, meaning Alexander won’t face any further punishment under the personal conduct policy.
In a statement, Alexander expressed regret, saying, “I take full responsibility for the situation I found myself in and apologize for not living up to my standards. I know this is unacceptable, and I understand the suspension. I am committed to learning from this and becoming a better version of myself.”
A second assistant coach in the NFL is under scrutiny for similar reasons: Ben Steele, the tight ends coach for the Washington Commanders, was dismissed just before training camp after being arrested for DWI in June. He is also facing additional charges, including refusing a blood and breath test.
These incidents highlight an ongoing concern that perhaps more robust training and guidelines around alcohol use are needed for coaches, especially when they are off-duty.
