Baltimore Ravens Roster 2020 Baltimore Ravens Roster

Top 3 Ravens Roster Questions of 2019-2020

How Much Has Lamar Jackson Improved as a Passer?

One of the more interesting storylines last season was how the Ravens offense dramatically shifted once Lamar Jackson took over. It was clear there’d be some changes once Jackson replaced Flacco, but it really felt like the Ravens were inventing a new offensive style on the fly once Jackson became the man. Part of the reason their offense was so much more effective down the stretch was because of Lamar Jackson’s proficiency as a runner. He forced opposing defense to play completely differently than they were probably expecting to against the Ravens. However, defenders will likely be more prepared to stop him with a full offseason of preparation, so it’s critical Jackson evolves as well. One thing he absolutely must improve on is his passing game. That’s not to say he was horrible as a passer his rookie year but it’s clearly not a strength of his. If the Ravens truly want to become contenders, Jackson must take major strides forward as a passer.

How Good will Their Defense be Compared to Last Year?

Although the Ravens quarterback controversy was what everyone was talking about last year, it was the Ravens defense that quietly kept the team afloat last season. While the offense was pretty inconsistent, ranging from dynamic and explosive to stale and uninteresting, the defense always stepped up when they were needed. This offseason brought about some changes to the Ravens defense, and it’s hard to say whether they’re better or worse for it. The team saw a lot of major contributors depart in free agency, from defensive lineman Za’Darius Smith, to linebackers Terrell Suggs and C.J. Mosley, and safety Eric Weddle. Conversely, the Ravens defense is extremely deep and full of talented youngsters who never got a chance to play before. They may not be as experienced, but that doesn’t mean they won’t be impactful. They also managed to make one high profile signing defensively by bringing in pro bowl safety Earl Thomas. The defense will look a lot different this season, but they still have a chance to be just as formidable.

Can the Ravens Receivers Step Up?

One notable weak point for the Ravens is their lack of receiving depth. Although they drafted receiver Marquise Brown in the first round, they’re still pretty thin at the position. Two of their three leading receivers in terms of yardage from last season have departed, so a group that was already subpar last year may be even worse this year. Lamar Jackson’s development is a priority as a passer is a priority for the Ravens, so surrounding him with this group is less than desirable. It’s not completely hopeless however, as there’s hope Brown steps up right out of the gate or that they’re tight ends can pick up some of the slack. The Ravens are in a good situation with a starting caliber quarterback on a rookie deal, so there’s no better time to go for a championship then now, before he gets too expensive. But if they really want to make a run, they better have a plan to upgrade their receiving core or hope that one of them breaks out into a star.