The Ravens missed a field goal and were one field goal from hosting a postseason game this past weekend. But the truth is, they did not look like the Super Bowl favorite team that pundits had tipped before the season.
The Athletic’s Jeff Zrebiec examined what the Ravens must do to get on track to 2026 and beyond.
Zrebiec wrote, “They need to make some changes but it’s not a total rebuild.” They still have a very talented team, which is led by the two-time MVP quarterback. If they can find the right coach and get Jackson healthy, they should be ready to play a game by this time next season, if they are not enjoying a first round bye.
Zrebiec believes the Ravens need to return to the philosophy of Ozzie Newsome who was the former General Manager and Executive Vice President. “Ozzie Newsome always believed in building a team from the bottom up, concluding being strong in the trenches is the best way to build a winner.”
Zrebiec wrote: “Adding two bookend guards to Tyler Linderbaum’s offensive line, who is a three-time Pro Bowler and re-signing him as a center would help solidify it.” On the other side, adding at least two interior linemen on the defensive side would be a good idea. Earmarking several draft picks for the trenches feels like the best way for the Ravens to get back to being the physical, tough-to-play-against team they’ve been in their best years.”
Zrebiec said that it is time for Eric DeCosta, the General Manager of the team to “take an aggressive approach on a veteran purchase.”
Zrebiec wrote: “The Ravens spent a lot of money on their secondary in the form of draft picks, salary cap space and other resources. The results have been mixed.” No secondary will be able to hold up consistently if the front 7 are not harassing quarterbacks. Since Terrell Suggs’ prime, the Ravens haven’t had a pass rusher that can wreck a game.
You want to see your defense get off the field and stop this cycle of heart-wrenching defeats and blown lead? Do you want to see your defense become feared once again? You may have to trade some young players for Maxx Crosby, the Las Vegas Raiders’ pass rusher. He would completely transform the Ravens’ defense, which was having a bad 2025.”