The Ravens are shaking things up in a big way, and it’s clear they’re not just tinkering around the edges. With a new head coach and fresh faces in both the offensive and defensive coordinator spots, Baltimore is gearing up for a new era.
They've seen some key players head out, including a Pro Bowl center and a standout tight end, but there's no talk of a complete rebuild. Instead, General Manager Eric DeCosta is focused on injecting some youthful energy and playmaking ability on both sides of the ball.
While upgrading the offensive guard positions remains a priority, the Ravens still boast a roster with Super Bowl potential.
As the NFL draft looms, let’s dive into what might be the Ravens' best offseason move and how it could redefine their roster and identity heading into the 2026 season.
Enter the New 'Closer'
After stepping back from a potential trade for Maxx Crosby, the Ravens made a bold move by signing former Bengals pass rusher Trey Hendrickson to a four-year, $112 million deal. Hendrickson, known for his knack for fourth-quarter sacks, is set to be Baltimore’s go-to guy in tight situations.
Staying in the AFC North means he’ll face off against Joe Burrow and the Bengals twice a season, but more importantly, Hendrickson is the kind of player you want when you’re protecting a slim lead late in the game. The previous head coach, John Harbaugh, was let go partly because the team had a habit of losing late-game leads.
Last season, the Ravens struggled in close games, going 0-4 in matchups decided by five points or fewer. Under Harbaugh, they were 45-61 in such games since 2008.
Their defense finished last season ranked 24th overall, 30th in passing defense, and 18th in scoring defense. They also struggled with sacks, ranking 30th, and had issues with turnovers, sitting at 18th in total turnovers and 22nd in turnover differential.
The defense allowed over 300 yards to quarterbacks like Drake Maye, Malik Willis, and Aaron Rodgers-twice. Even with DK Metcalf out, Rodgers managed to torch them in a crucial season finale.
Looking Ahead
With Hendrickson on board, the Ravens are set to change their defensive narrative. He’s racked up 61 sacks in 72 games since 2021, boasting a pressure rate of 17.1% compared to Crosby’s 14.1%. The Ravens might still look to pair him with another pass rusher before the draft or go with Mike Green.
Teaming up with new defensive coordinator Jesse Minter, Hendrickson is expected to thrive. Minter, who joined from the Chargers after winning a national title in 2023, has built a reputation for crafting formidable defenses.
Last year, his Chargers were tied for second in interceptions and eighth in takeaways. They also had a quartet of players with at least five sacks each, contributing to a defense that was fifth in the league overall and tied for third in interceptions.
Baltimore is clearly aiming to bolster its pass rush, and with Minter’s track record, the Ravens’ defense is poised to put more pressure on quarterbacks. If they can replicate the Chargers' success, holding opponents to 20 points or fewer on a consistent basis, the Ravens will be a force to reckon with in 2026.