Minnesota Vikings suspend defensive backs coach Gerald Alexander after DWI guilty plea
Another NFL assistant coach is being disciplined by his team after facing driving under the influence allegations, this time with Minnesota Vikings defensive backs coach Gerald Alexander being 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, on an initial breathalyzer test, 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 came on July 16.
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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 through Aug. 13.
"Following Gerald’s arrest earlier this spring, we remained in communication with the NFL while awaiting 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 Fox News Digital the club suspension will close the matter and Alexander will not be subject to additional league discipline under the personal conduct policy.
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 apologize for not meeting the mark," Alexander said. "I know it’s unacceptable. I understand the suspension and 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 offseason troubles with DWI.
The Washington Commanders on Monday announced the firing of assistant coach Ben Steele just days before the start of training camp.
Steele, who was serving 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 is facing an additional charge for refusing a blood/breath test and obstructing or resisting an officer without force, per the report.
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Steele had previously been under suspension by the Commanders.
These two issues coming to light in the same week suggest some coaches may need more extensive training or onboarding to make clear the pitfalls of drinking — even away from the club.