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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 had been suspended for three weeks after pleading guilty to drunk driving earlier this month. Alexander’s blood alcohol level was 0.169, more than twice the legal limit in Minnesota, when first tested, according to the charging statement.
Alexander, hired in February as the team’s passing game coordinator as well as defensive backs coach, was arrested in April and his guilty plea was made July 16.
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Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell reacts during the second half at Soldier Field on September 8, 2025. (Matt Marton/Imagn Images)
Alexander pleaded guilty to third-degree DWI, a misdemeanor, and paid $603 in fines and fees. He was given 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 at that time. It will continue until August 13.
“Following Gerald’s arrest earlier this spring, we have remained in communication with the NFL pending the outcome of the legal process,” the Vikings said in a statement. “We take these situations seriously and believe these disciplinary actions are appropriate.”
The NFL told PK Press Club Digital that the club’s suspension would bring closure to the matter and that Alexander would not be subject to further disciplinary action under the Personal Conduct Policy.
Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores watches the fourth quarter of a game against the Green Bay Packers at US Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota on January 4, 2026. (Matt Blewett/Imagn Images)
Alexander, who previously worked under Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores in Miami when Flores was the head coach, also released a statement through the team.
“I take full responsibility for the situation I put myself in and I apologize for not achieving the goal,” Alexander said. “I know this is unacceptable. I understand the suspension and I am committed to learning from this 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 offseason DWI issues.
The Washington Commanders announced Monday the firing of assistant coach Ben Steele just days before the start of training camp.
Arizona Cardinals tight ends coach Ben Steele supervises 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 was 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/breathalyzer test and obstructing or resisting a police officer without force, according to the report.
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Steele had already been suspended by commanders.
These two issues revealed in the same week suggest some coaches may need further training or induction to clarify the pitfalls of drinking, even outside of the club.
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