Brown: I expect the Ravens to explore numerous options as they attempt to solve their defensive woes. Here’s where they rank defensively in the NFL through Week 3 – last in total defense, 31st against the pass, 31st in points allowed, and 30th against the run.
There could be lineup changes, there could be strategic changes, but I view this differently than last season. In 2024, surrendering big plays in the passing game was Baltimore’s major defensive flaw early in the season. Once Ar’Darius Washington became a starter and Kyle Hamilton played primarily deep safety, the big plays against them disappeared, and the Ravens became a top defensive team.
So far in 2025, the Ravens aren’t defending the run as well, and their lack of a consistent pass rush has put more stress on their pass defense. Baltimore has just three sacks, and only two NFL teams have fewer. In 2024, the Ravens had 54 sacks and were second in the league in that category.
I think Hamilton’s versatility as someone who can play a variety of positions is a unique strength. Perhaps putting him near the line of scrimmage, where he can help defend the run and blitz more often, is something we’ll see moving forward.
It’s fair to say that the Ravens expected to start fast defensively this season, and it hasn’t happened. Last season, they found answers, and they’re working to do the same this season. However, with Washington (Achilles) expected to be out until at least November, some of the immediate solutions will have to be different.