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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 end Gerald Alexander suspended by the team.
The Vikings announced Tuesday that Alexander has been suspended for three weeks after pleading guilty to driving under the influence 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 affidavit.
Alexander, who was hired in February as the team’s passing game coordinator and defensive backs coach, was arrested in April and entered his guilty plea 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/Imagn 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 at the time. It runs until 13 August.
“Following Gerald’s arrest earlier this spring, we 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 this disciplinary action is appropriate.”
The NFL tells Pakinomist Digital that the club’s suspension will close the case and Alexander will not be subject to further league discipline under the personal conduct policy.
Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores looks on 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/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 apologize for not meeting the mark,” Alexander said. “I know it’s unacceptable. I understand the suspension and am committed to learning from it and making sure 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 oversees practice during the NFL game between the Arizona Cardinals and the Houston Texans on November 19, 2023 at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas. (Ikon Sportswire)
Steele, who served as the team’s tight ends coach, was hired by the Commanders in the 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 power, according to 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 that some coaches may need more extensive training or onboarding to make clear the pitfalls of drinking – even away from the club.
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