Monitoring all offseason transactions by the AFC North rivals of the Baltimore Ravens

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Monitoring all offseason transactions by the AFC North rivals of the Baltimore Ravens

The AFC North has long been known as one of the most competitive and hard-hitting divisions in the NFL. With teams like the Baltimore Ravens, Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns, and Pittsburgh Steelers, each season feels like a battle for divisional supremacy. Heading into the 2024 season, each of these teams has made key transactions to bolster their rosters, making the race for the AFC North crown more exciting than ever. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at each team’s offseason moves, the rationale behind them, and how these transactions will impact their prospects for the upcoming season.

Baltimore Ravens: A New Era Built Around Lamar Jackson

The Baltimore Ravens entered the 2024 offseason with one key priority: securing the future of their franchise quarterback, Lamar Jackson. After months of speculation and uncertainty regarding his contract, Jackson signed a long-term extension, locking him in as the centerpiece of the franchise for years to come. With Jackson’s future secured, the Ravens turned their attention to improving the offensive side of the ball, which had been a point of contention in recent years.

Key Additions

  • Lamar Jackson Contract Extension: The Ravens made it official by giving Jackson a new contract that ensures he remains in Baltimore for the long haul. His ability to both pass and run the ball makes him one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the NFL, and keeping him in the fold is crucial for the team’s continued success.
  • Todd Monken – Offensive Coordinator: In a major shift, the Ravens hired Todd Monken as their new offensive coordinator. Monken, known for his pass-heavy schemes, is expected to modernize the Ravens’ offense. This move is seen as a way to maximize Jackson’s passing potential, as the team has often relied heavily on the run game in past seasons.
  • Odell Beckham Jr. (WR): One of the biggest offseason moves came when the Ravens signed veteran wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. Beckham, who has dealt with injuries in recent years, offers a high-upside addition to an offense that has struggled to consistently provide Lamar Jackson with weapons on the outside. If healthy, Beckham can provide a dynamic deep threat and red-zone target, helping Jackson stretch defenses in new ways.
  • Zay Flowers (WR, Draft): The Ravens also used their first-round pick to draft Zay Flowers, a speedy wide receiver out of Boston College. Flowers is expected to add an explosive element to the receiving corps, complementing the size and playmaking ability of Beckham. His deep-speed and route-running could be the missing piece to an offense that has lacked consistent vertical threats.
  • Javon Hargrave (DT): On the defensive side of the ball, the Ravens bolstered their interior line by signing Javon Hargrave from the San Francisco 49ers. Hargrave is a proven pass-rusher and run defender, which gives the Ravens another weapon to pressure opposing quarterbacks and solidify an already elite defense.

Key Departures

  • Marcus Peters (CB): The Ravens parted ways with cornerback Marcus Peters after a series of injury-riddled seasons. Peters was known for his ball-hawking ability, but his departure leaves a hole in the secondary that will need to be addressed, especially in a division filled with talented quarterbacks.
  • Calais Campbell (DE): Veteran defensive lineman Calais Campbell, a key figure in Baltimore’s defense for several seasons, was also released. Campbell’s leadership and ability to disrupt the quarterback will be missed, but the Ravens are confident in their depth and the rise of younger players to fill his void.

Outlook

The Ravens are poised for a deep playoff run in 2024, with their offense now being built around Lamar Jackson’s dual-threat ability and a renewed focus on the passing game. If Odell Beckham Jr. can stay healthy and Zay Flowers can adjust to the NFL quickly, the Ravens could have one of the most explosive offenses in the league. Additionally, with the addition of Javon Hargrave to the defensive line, the Ravens are in a strong position to remain one of the top defensive teams in the NFL.

Cincinnati Bengals: Maintaining Continuity in Search of a Title

After making it to the Super Bowl just two seasons ago, the Cincinnati Bengals are still very much in the mix for a championship. With Joe Burrow at quarterback, Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins on the outside, and a defense that has been steadily improving, the Bengals don’t need to overhaul their roster—they just need to maintain continuity and build around their core.

Key Additions

  • Jonah Williams (OT, Extension): The Bengals made it clear they were committed to protecting Joe Burrow by re-signing offensive tackle Jonah Williams. The offensive line has been a sore spot for Cincinnati in the past, but Williams’ presence helps solidify one of the most important positions on the team. Burrow is known for his quick release, but he still needs solid protection to execute at the highest level.
  • Trey Hendrickson (DE, Re-signing): Defensive end Trey Hendrickson has been a key part of the Bengals’ pass rush, and the team wisely chose to re-sign him to a long-term deal. Hendrickson’s ability to create pressure on quarterbacks is essential to Cincinnati’s defensive scheme, and his continued presence ensures the Bengals’ defense will remain one of the more formidable in the league.
  • Cam Taylor-Britt (CB, Draft): The Bengals added cornerback Cam Taylor-Britt in the draft, addressing a need in the secondary. With the loss of safeties Jessie Bates and Vonn Bell in free agency, Taylor-Britt’s ability to cover wide receivers and contribute to the defense’s versatility will be vital as the Bengals continue their quest to contend for a Super Bowl.
  • Samaje Perine (RB): The Bengals also bolstered their running back room by bringing in Samaje Perine. While Joe Mixon remains the primary back, Perine adds valuable depth and could be utilized in a committee approach to keep the backfield fresh throughout the season.

Key Departures

  • Jessie Bates (S): Safety Jessie Bates’ departure to the Atlanta Falcons left a significant void in the Bengals’ defense. Bates was one of the league’s top safeties, known for his ball skills and leadership. However, the Bengals are confident in their young players’ ability to step up in his absence.
  • Vonn Bell (S): Along with Bates, safety Vonn Bell was also a key leader in the Bengals’ secondary. His departure places added pressure on the younger players in the defensive backfield, especially with the Bengals’ continued reliance on the passing game in the AFC.

Outlook

The Bengals’ roster is as strong as it’s been in years, and with Joe Burrow leading the charge, they remain a Super Bowl contender. The biggest question for Cincinnati heading into 2024 will be how they adjust to the losses in the secondary. If their young defensive backs step up and the offense remains as explosive as it has been, the Bengals will once again be a tough out in the playoffs.

Cleveland Browns: Deshaun Watson’s Redemption Year

The Cleveland Browns are in the midst of a critical rebuilding phase, with much of their future riding on the performance of quarterback Deshaun Watson. After a rocky 2023 season following his suspension, the Browns are hoping for a significant bounce-back year from their franchise QB.

Key Additions

  • Deshaun Watson (QB): The most important move for the Browns in 2024 is simply the full year of work they expect from Deshaun Watson. Watson showed flashes of his old self but struggled with consistency in 2023. A full offseason with the team should help him get back to being a top-tier quarterback.
  • Za’Darius Smith (OLB, Trade): The Browns made a bold move by trading for edge rusher Za’Darius Smith from the Minnesota Vikings. Smith will pair with Myles Garrett to create one of the most formidable pass-rushing duos in the league, adding pressure to opposing quarterbacks and complementing the Browns’ strong run defense.
  • Jordan Akins (TE): Akins was signed to add depth to the tight end position. Watson has traditionally utilized tight ends in his passing game, and Akins’ ability to create mismatches in the passing game could prove valuable.

Key Departures

  • Greedy Williams (CB): Cornerback Greedy Williams left the Browns after an up-and-down tenure in Cleveland. The team will need to find a new starting corner to pair with Denzel Ward in the secondary.
  • Jadaveon Clowney (OLB): Clowney’s departure leaves a hole in the Browns’ pass rush. However, with Smith now in the fold, the Browns should be able to compensate for Clowney’s loss.

Outlook

The 2024 season is pivotal for the Browns. Deshaun Watson’s performance will determine the team’s success, as they have the roster to contend in the AFC North. With the addition of Za’Darius Smith, the defense should be one of the best in the league, and Nick Chubb remains one of the most dominant running backs. If Watson regains his elite form, the Browns could push for a division title and a deep playoff run.

Pittsburgh Steelers: Building a Competitive Team Through Youth

The Pittsburgh Steelers are known for their consistency and their ability to stay competitive in the tough AFC North. While they’ve made moves to improve their team, the Steelers are building for the future, with a focus on developing young players like quarterback Kenny Pickett and improving their offensive line.

Key Additions

  • Broderick Jones (OT, Draft): The Steelers’ top pick in the 2024 draft was offensive tackle Broderick Jones. This pick was made to bolster the offensive line and give Kenny Pickett more protection. Jones has the potential to be a long-term starter and is expected to immediately improve the line’s pass-blocking.
  • Allen Robinson (WR, Trade): The Steelers acquired veteran receiver Allen Robinson in a trade with the Los Angeles Rams. Robinson’s size and experience provide a much-needed complement to George Pickens, and he should be a reliable target for Pickett in the red zone and on third down.
  • Patrick Peterson (CB): The Steelers signed veteran cornerback Patrick Peterson to add leadership and experience to their secondary. Peterson’s knowledge of the game will be invaluable for a young defense that already includes stars like T.J. Watt.

Key Departures

  • Minkah Fitzpatrick (S, Trade Rumors): While Minkah Fitzpatrick has not officially left the Steelers, rumors of a trade have surrounded the safety. Fitzpatrick is one of the top safeties in the league, and any potential departure would be a significant blow to the defense.

Outlook

The Steelers are focusing on developing Kenny Pickett while keeping their defense among the league’s best. With the addition of Broderick Jones and the acquisition of Allen Robinson, the Steelers are building a team that could be very competitive in 2024. If Pickett can take the next step, Pittsburgh has a chance to be a strong contender in the AFC North.

 A Divisional Battle in 2024

The AFC North is shaping up to be one of the most exciting divisions in the NFL heading into the 2024 season. With the Ravens focusing on Lamar Jackson and a revamped offense, the Bengals maintaining continuity with their Super Bowl window, the Browns putting all their eggs in Deshaun Watson’s basket, and the Steelers focusing on youth development and defense, it’s clear that all four teams have made key moves to improve their chances. The road to the AFC North title will be fiercely contested, and it promises to be another thrilling season of NFL action.

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