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Another NFL assistant coach is being disciplined by his team after facing allegations of driving under the influence, this time with Minnesota Vikings defensive backs coach Gerald Alexander suspended by the team.
The Vikings announced Tuesday that Alexander has been suspended for three weeks after he pleaded guilty to driving while intoxicated earlier this month. Alexander’s blood alcohol level was 0.169, or more than twice Minnesota’s legal limit, in an initial breathalyzer test, according to the charging statement.
Alexander, hired in February as the team’s passing game coordinator and defensive backs coach, was arrested in April and pleaded guilty on July 16.
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Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell reacts during the second half at Soldier Field on Sept. 8, 2025. (Matt Marton/Image Images)
Alexander pleaded guilty to third-degree DWI, a misdemeanor, and paid $603 in fines and fees. He was assigned 48 hours of community service and will be on probation for two years.
Alexander’s club suspension began on July 24, although it was not announced then. It will run until August 13.
“Following Gerald’s arrest earlier this spring, we remain in communication with the NFL as we await the outcome of the legal process,” the Vikings said in a statement. “We take these situations seriously and believe this disciplinary action is appropriate.”
The NFL tells Pak Gazette Digital that the club’s suspension will close the matter and Alexander will not be subject to additional discipline from the league under the personal conduct policy.
Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores watches during the fourth quarter of a game against the Green Bay Packers at US Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on January 4, 2026. (Matt Blewett/Image Images)
Alexander, who previously worked with Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores in Miami when Flores was the head coach, also issued a statement through the team.
“I take full responsibility for the situation I got myself into and I apologize for falling short,” Alexander said. “I know it is unacceptable. I understand the suspension and I am committed to learning from the matter and ensuring I come back a better version of myself.”
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Alexander is the second NFL assistant coach to face team discipline for DWI issues this offseason.
The Washington Commanders announced the firing of assistant coach Ben Steele on Monday just days before the start of training camp.
Arizona Cardinals tight ends coach Ben Steele oversees practice during the NFL game between the Arizona Cardinals and the Houston Texans on November 19, 2023 at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas. (Sportswire icon)
Steele, who served as the team’s tight ends coach, was hired by the Commanders this offseason.
“We are parting ways with tight ends coach Ben Steele. The team will have no further comment at this time,” the Commanders said in a statement.
The Athletic reported that Steele was arrested on suspicion of DWI in June. He faces an additional charge of refusing a blood/breath test and obstructing or resisting an officer without force, according to the report.
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Steele had previously been suspended by commanders.
These two issues that came to light in the same week suggest that some coaches may need more extensive training or onboarding to clarify the dangers of alcohol consumption, even outside the club.
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