The Ravens’ defensive roster underwent significant changes during the early part of the NFL off-season and the first wave of free agency.
Baltimore signed Justin Madubuike, one of the league’s best defensive linemen, to an extension.
However, the Ravens suffered significant free-agent losses. Patrick Queen (Steelers) and Geno Stone (Bengals) were among eight free agents to sign elsewhere. Baltimore also released Tyus Bowser in a cost-cutting move.
Baltimore also signed former Texans cornerback Ka’Dar Hollman and linebacker Chris Board, adding even more depth.
With the draft now completed and six OTA sessions approaching, we’re doing a stock report for the Ravens’ retooled defense.
INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA – NOVEMBER 26: Michael Pierce #58 of the Baltimore Ravens celebrates a defensive stop against the Los Angeles Chargers during the second quarter in the game at SoFi Stadium on November 26, 2023 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Katelyn Mulcahy/Getty Images)
In 2023, the Ravens’ starting defensive line consisted of DT Justin Madubuike, NT Michael Pierce, DT Travis Jones, and DE Broderick Washington, who stepped into Calais Campbell’s vacated spot.
In 2024, that group returns, along with Brent Urban making his return.
Stock up
BALTIMORE, MARYLAND – JANUARY 06: Broderick Washington #96 of the Baltimore Ravens celebrates after recovering a fumble in the second quarter of a game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at M&T Bank Stadium on January 06, 2024 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)
In 2023, Broderick Washington and Brent Urban held down the true defensive end spots.
It’ll be the same in 2023.
Stock down: Jadeveon Clowney was listed as an edge rusher or outside linebacker, but he’s a true defensive end, and his presence will be missed.
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) is pulled down by Baltimore Ravens linebacker Odafe Oweh (99) as he throws in he first quarter of the NFL Week 11 game between the Baltimore Ravens and the Cincinnati Bengals at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore on Thursday, Nov. 16, 2023.
In 2023, Odafe Oweh was listed as the starting RUSH linebacker with David Ojabo behind him and rookie fourth-round Tavius Robinson No. 3. The SAM linebacker spot was supposed to be Tyus Bowser, and backed up by Jeremiah Moon and undrafted rookie Malik Hamm.
In 2024, Bowser and Moon have departed, while Oweh, Ojabo, Robinson, Kyle Van Noy, Malik Harrison, and Hamm return, along with newcomer Adisa Isaac and undrafted rookie Joe Evans.
Stock up
BALTIMORE, MARYLAND – JANUARY 28: Roquan Smith #0 of the Baltimore Ravens reacts during the first quarter against the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC Championship Game at M&T Bank Stadium on January 28, 2024 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
In 2023, Roquan Smith, Patrick Queen, Del’Shawn Phillips, Malik Harrison, rookie Trenton Simpson, and Josh Ross filled out the initial depth chart.
In 2024, Smith returns as an All-Pro, but Queen departed for the Steelers in free agency. Phillips departed, Harrison returns, while Simpson switched jersey numbers (23), and he’ll take on more significant roles. Former Ravens linebacker Chris Board is back, along with rookie Yvandy Rigby.
Stock up: Even without Queen, Simpson showed in the season finale that he can be productive in space and stout against the pass. Board offers special teams prowess, while Rigby could make the 53-man roster as an undrafted rookie.
CLEMSON, SC – NOVEMBER 18: Clemson Tigers corner back Nate Wiggins (2) during a college football game between the North Carolina Tar Heels and the Clemson Tigers on November 18, 2023 at Clemson Memorial Stadium in Clemson, S.C. (Photo by John Byrum/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
In 2023, Rock Ya-Sin was initially the starting cornerback opposite Marlon Humphrey after foot surgery cost the Pro Bowler the first quarter of the season. Ronald Darby was inserted, and he played well in stretches opposite Brandon Stephens. Jalyn Armour-Davis saw limited action, while Pepe Williams missed a sizable amount of the season.
In 2024, Hunphrey is healthy, Arthur Maulet returns, and Stephens performed like a Pro Bowler last season. They’ll be anchored by the additions of rookie cornerbacks Nate Wiggins and T.J. Tampa.
Stock up
Dec 25, 2023; Santa Clara, California, USA; Baltimore Ravens safety Kyle Hamilton (14) intercepts a pass against the San Francisco 49ers in the second quarter at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports
Last season (2023), Baltimore was stacked with Kyle Hamilton, Marcus Williams, and Geno Stone. After Williams was injured, Stone had a breakout year and spent the first half of the season leading the NFL in interceptions.
In 2024, Stone departed for the Bengals, but Hamilton and Williams returned along with Ar’Darius Washington, rookie safety Sanoussi Kane, and under-the-radar safety Beau Brade.
