Key Takeaways:
– After a fearsome defensive performance in 2023, Baltimore Ravens is ranked sixth for the coming season by Bleacher Report.
– Loss of key players in roster and coaching staff shake-ups identified as deterrents to maintaining top 5 ranking.
– Linebacker Roquan Smith remains as a key defensive pillar, supported by Justin Madubuike.
– Despite significant losses, Ravens have new talent to offset, including first-round draft pick Nate Wiggins.
Reevaluation of Ravens’ Defensive Unit
Widely feared in the 2023 season, the Baltimore Ravens’ defensive unit made its mark in the NFL. However, the Bleacher Report has forecasted a potential slip in the Ravens’ defense ranking for the upcoming season. According to the BR NFL Scouting Department, the Ravens find themselves as the no. 6 defense following the recent draft.
The evaluation by BR took into account the last season’s performance, coaching changes, plus incoming and outgoing talent. However, despite the Ravens reaching AFC Championship Game owing to their formidable defense, BR predicts a potential downgrade due to “losing a considerable amount of coaching and playing talent.”
Surviving Key Players
The loss of significant talent from the Ravens does not mean the team is without its stars. LB Roquan Smith, an influential figure in the Ravens’ defense, remains onboard. Described by BR as “one of the few needle-moving off-ball linebackers in the league,” Smith plans to replicate the 2023 success.
Supporting Smith, Justin Madubuike, who had a breakout season with 13 impressive sacks, furthers their reputation. BR highlights that Madubuike’s “versatility and ability to pressure the quarterback will make life easier for everyone up front.”
Post-Season Free Agency Impact
Although the Ravens had the best defense concerning points allowed and the sixth-best in terms of yards allowed last season, key defenders’ departures will impact significantly. Jadeveon Clowney, the player second to Madubuike in sacks last season, will be gone. His absence will be strongly felt since his key contributions led the Ravens to top the NFL with 60.0 sacks.
Similarly, the culmination of Patrick Queen’s partnership with Smith implies another blow. Another major hit was in the secondary, where the Ravens lost key players, including Ronald Darby and Geno Stone. However, there is hope with the drafting of CB Nate Wiggins in the first round to fill the gaps left by such departures.
Coaching Changes Add to the Concerns
The coaching staff exodus only adds to the challenges facing Ravens’ defense. Defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald, defensive line coach Anthony Weaver, and defensive backs coach Dennard Wilson have all taken up defensive coordinator roles elsewhere.
As a counter-measure, the Ravens have promoted Zach Orr as the next defensive coordinator. At 31, Orr will need to make an immediate impression on a team that is used to being championship contenders.
In conclusion, despite some significant setbacks in terms of player and coaching departures, the Ravens still possess a considerable amount of defensive talent. Whether they maintain their defensive prowess will likely depend on the performance of remaining key defenders and how well the new coaching staff integrates with the existing system.