Analysts Determine the Ravens’ Top Priorities and How They Will Handle Them | Arriving Late for Work

The Baltimore Ravens, a franchise synonymous with strong defenses and dynamic playmakers, are once again looking toward the future. With the offseason underway, analysts have identified several top priorities for the team as they prepare for the next season. From upgrading the roster to addressing coaching adjustments, the Ravens have a lot on their plate. In this article, we will examine these priorities and how the organization is expected to handle them, ensuring they remain a competitive force in the NFL.

1. Quarterback Situation: Lamar Jackson’s Future

The most significant priority for the Ravens in recent years has revolved around Lamar Jackson. The 2019 MVP remains the face of the franchise, but there are ongoing questions about his contract situation and long-term future in Baltimore.

Contract Negotiations and Impact on the Salary Cap

The Ravens are currently navigating a tricky situation regarding Jackson’s contract. After failing to reach an agreement on a long-term deal before the 2023 season, Jackson is still playing under his rookie contract, and the team will need to address his future in 2025. Analysts suggest that the Ravens must offer Jackson a deal that reflects his value, both as a dual-threat quarterback and a leader on the field.

While the Ravens will likely offer a substantial contract, the specifics of the deal will be complicated by Jackson’s desire for guaranteed money. A fully guaranteed contract, like the one Deshaun Watson received from the Cleveland Browns, could set a new precedent for the league. This issue will be a key focus for the front office, as it could affect Baltimore’s ability to build a strong team around him.

Ensuring Lamar’s Health

Beyond the financial aspects, there’s the matter of Jackson’s health. Over the past few seasons, injuries have sidelined him at key moments, impacting the Ravens’ playoff chances. The team will need to invest in strengthening their offensive line to protect Jackson better and ensure he’s available for an entire season.

Possible Draft or Trade Options

While Jackson’s future is paramount, the Ravens have also been exploring backup options. They could draft a quarterback or look into the trade market to find a quality backup. This would allow the Ravens to hedge their bets, ensuring that they don’t find themselves in a similar situation to 2023, when their backup quarterbacks struggled mightily after Jackson’s injury.

2. Wide Receiver Corps: Finding Reliable Targets for Lamar

One of the most glaring needs for the Ravens in recent seasons has been the lack of consistent playmakers at the wide receiver position. While Jackson’s playmaking ability can elevate the play of his receivers, the team has been unable to provide him with a true number one option.

Addressing the Glaring Lack of Playmakers

The Ravens will likely target wide receivers in both the draft and free agency. They may look to sign a proven veteran to serve as a reliable target for Jackson. Analysts point to the potential signing of players like DeAndre Hopkins or trading for an established star as one way to fill this void.

The Role of Young Receivers

The development of young receivers such as Rashod Bateman and Zay Flowers will also be critical. Bateman, who has shown flashes of potential but struggled with injuries, will need to stay healthy to take the next step in his career. Flowers, a rookie in 2023, showed promise and could emerge as a dynamic playmaker in the offense.

Balancing the Offense

The Ravens are traditionally a run-first team, but if they want to succeed in today’s pass-heavy NFL, they will need to diversify their attack. Ensuring Jackson has the weapons to succeed in the passing game will be essential for the team’s success moving forward.

3. Defensive Adjustments: Staying Competitive

While the offense has garnered much of the attention, the Ravens’ defense remains one of the best in the league. That said, there are still areas of improvement and adjustment that need to be addressed.

Aging Defense: The Need for Youth

The Ravens’ defense is anchored by veterans like cornerback Marlon Humphrey and linebacker Roquan Smith. While these players remain elite, the team will need to inject youth into the defensive ranks to maintain its competitive edge. This means targeting emerging talent in the draft and possibly seeking additional depth through free agency.

Improving Pass Rush and Coverage

The team’s pass rush, while solid, has been inconsistent in recent seasons. Analysts suggest the team could benefit from adding a pass-rushing specialist or investing in a linebacker who can help generate pressure. Additionally, while the secondary is strong, bolstering the cornerback depth could be crucial to maintaining a top-tier defense.

Shoring Up the Run Defense

The Ravens’ defense was not as stout against the run in 2023 as it had been in previous years. As teams around the league shift to more balanced offensive schemes, improving run defense will be an important focus. This could include both tactical adjustments as well as personnel changes.

4. Offensive Line: Protecting the Quarterback

The offensive line is the unsung hero of any successful NFL offense, and for the Ravens, it will be a key point of focus. Despite some success, the Ravens’ line has struggled at times to provide consistent protection for Jackson, especially on passing downs.

Investments in the O-Line

The Ravens may look to bolster their offensive line in free agency and the draft, targeting players who can provide better protection. With the increasing demands of the modern NFL, where pass-rush pressure is more prevalent than ever, improving the offensive line is crucial.

Balancing the Run and Pass Blocking

The Ravens have one of the best rushing attacks in the league, largely thanks to their offensive line. However, they must also ensure that the line can effectively protect Jackson in passing situations, especially on third downs and in two-minute drills.

5. Special Teams: Shoring Up the Kicking Game

Special teams is often overlooked, but for the Ravens, it has been an area of strength in the past. However, with questions surrounding kicker Justin Tucker’s future and consistency, it’s crucial that the team addresses the kicking game to avoid any potential pitfalls during critical moments.

Evaluating Tucker’s Contract and Longevity

Justin Tucker is arguably the most reliable kicker in NFL history, but like all players, his career will eventually come to an end. The Ravens will need to plan for the future by evaluating their options for a backup or successor.

Coverage and Return Game

Additionally, the Ravens have been solid in coverage and the return game, but ensuring that the team maintains its advantage in this phase will be crucial. Special teams often play a pivotal role in tight games, and the Ravens’ ability to consistently win in this area could make the difference between success and failure in the postseason.

6. Coaching Adjustments: Maintaining Success

While John Harbaugh has been one of the most successful head coaches in Ravens history, it’s essential for the coaching staff to make adjustments as the NFL landscape evolves.

Offensive Scheme Adjustments

The Ravens will likely continue to build their offense around Lamar Jackson, but they will also need to balance his strengths with a more dynamic passing attack. Offensive coordinator Todd Monken, brought in after a successful run at Georgia, will be tasked with evolving the team’s offensive identity to match Jackson’s skill set while maintaining a dominant run game.

Defensive Philosophy Shifts

On the defensive side of the ball, the Ravens have traditionally been known for a smash-mouth, hard-hitting defense. As offenses become more complex, however, the Ravens will need to adjust by incorporating more flexibility and versatility into their defensive schemes. The coaching staff’s ability to adapt will be key to staying at the top of the league.

As the Baltimore Ravens move into the 2025 season, they face a series of priorities that could shape their future success. From securing Lamar Jackson’s long-term future to ensuring the team’s defense remains formidable, there’s a lot for the organization to handle. Through smart investments in key areas such as wide receiver, offensive line, and defense, the Ravens have the potential to remain a top contender in the AFC for years to come.

How the Ravens address these issues will likely determine whether they can return to Super Bowl contention. With the right moves in the draft, free agency, and coaching adjustments, Baltimore can continue to build upon its rich legacy and set itself up for future success.