The Minnesota Vikings have suspended defensive backs coach Gerald Alexander for three weeks after his guilty plea to a driving while intoxicated charge earlier this month. The team announced the suspension on Tuesday.
Alexander's blood alcohol content was recorded at 0.169, more than double Minnesota's legal limit, during an initial breathalyzer test, according to charging documents. He pleaded guilty to third-degree DWI, a misdemeanor, on July 16. As part of his sentence, Alexander was fined $603, ordered to complete 48 hours of community service, and will be on probation for two years.
The club suspension began on July 24 and will conclude on August 13. The Vikings stated that they remained in communication with the NFL during the legal process and believe the disciplinary action is appropriate.
The NFL has indicated that the Vikings' club suspension will resolve the matter, and Alexander will not face additional league discipline under its personal conduct policy. Alexander, who joined the Vikings in February as a passing game coordinator and defensive backs coach, previously worked under Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores in Miami.
Alexander issued a statement expressing remorse. "I take full responsibility for the situation I put myself in and apologize for not meeting the mark," he 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."
Alexander's suspension follows another recent incident involving an NFL assistant coach facing DWI allegations. The Washington Commanders recently fired assistant coach Ben Steele after he was arrested in June on suspicion of DWI. Steele also faces charges for refusing a blood/breath test and resisting an officer.