As a true freshman at Oklahoma in 2013, Alexander played in all 13 games and started eight.[3] He was named the Big 12 Defensive Freshman of the Year after recording 80 tackles and a sack.[4][5] As a sophomore, he started all 13 games and had a team-leading 108 tackles and 2.5 sacks.[6] He again started all 13 games his junior year and again led the team in tackles with 103 while also recording a sack and an interception. After the season, he entered the 2016 NFL draft.[7]
Professional career
Coming out of college, Alexander was projected as a fifth or sixth round selection and ranked as the eight best inside linebacker by NFLDraftScout.com.[8] He was invited to the NFL Scouting Combine and completed the broad jump, vertical, and bench press but did not participate in any running drills due to an injury. On March 9, 2016, he attended Oklahoma's Pro Day and was able to complete the running drills required but stood on his combine numbers in the drills he completed there. While many scouts gave him positive reviews for his running ability, tackling, talent in man coverage, and his speed many discounted him for his size, strength, issues getting off blocks, and his lack of instinctual ability.[9]
On May 5, 2016, the Cleveland Browns signed Alexander to a three-year, $1.61 million contract.[11]
Alexander entered training camp battling for a position as a backup inside linebacker with veterans Justin Tuggle, Tank Carder, and rookie Scooby Wright. Alexander entered the regular season as the backup left inside linebacker behind Demario Davis.[12] He played in 14 games primarily on special teams, recording seven tackles.
On October 3, 2017, Alexander was placed on injured reserve.[13]
On May 3, 2018, Alexander was waived by the Browns.[14]
Personal life
Alexander was raised by his parents, Derrick Alexander Sr. and Nicole Holman-Alexander. His father player college football at Oklahoma State and his brother, Derrick Alexander Jr. currently plays defensive lineman at Tulsa.[9] He also has a son.[15]
