Baltimore Ravens Offense: A Promising Outlook for the 2023 Season
The Baltimore Ravens have made significant changes to their offense this offseason, and the team is optimistic about the upcoming season. With a new coordinator in Todd Monken and additions to key positions, the Ravens are looking to improve their offensive performance and become a more dangerous team.
Quarterback: Lamar Jackson’s Health is Key
The success of the Ravens’ offense largely depends on the health of their star quarterback, Lamar Jackson. Jackson has missed a total of 11 games over the past two seasons due to various injuries. If he can stay healthy, the Ravens’ offense has the potential to be better than ever.
The team also made efforts to strengthen their backup quarterback position by signing Josh Johnson from the San Francisco 49ers. Johnson will compete with Tyler Huntley for the No. 2 spot behind Jackson. This competition will be one to watch during training camp.
Running Backs: A More Explosive Group
The Ravens’ running back group is expected to be better and more explosive this season. J.K. Dobbins and Gus Edwards, who both suffered devastating knee injuries in recent years, are now two years removed from their injuries. This extra time to recover and train should make them even more effective on the field.
It is worth noting that the Ravens have not added a veteran running back for insurance in case of injuries to Dobbins or Edwards. However, the team seems confident in their abilities and is willing to rely on their young talent.
Wide Receivers: A Significant Upgrade
Perhaps the most significant upgrade for the Ravens’ offense comes at the wide receiver position. The team made substantial investments by signing Odell Beckham Jr. to a one-year, $15 million deal and drafting Zay Flowers in the first round. These additions, along with Rashod Bateman and Nelson Agholor, make for a much-improved wide receiver group.
Compared to last season, when the Ravens had Demarcus Robinson and Sammy Watkins as their top receivers, the current group is far superior. The combination of Beckham, Flowers, Bateman, and Agholor provides a wealth of talent and options for the Ravens’ passing game.
Tight End: Mark Andrews Remains a Key Target
While the focus has been on the wide receiver upgrades, it’s important not to overlook the return of Mark Andrews at tight end. Andrews has been a reliable target for Jackson in recent years and will continue to play a crucial role in the offense.
The team will miss the leadership of Nick Boyle and the blocking skills of Josh Oliver, but the growth of second-year players Isaiah Likely and Charlie Kolar should help fill the void. The tight end position remains solid, providing another weapon for Jackson to utilize.
Offensive Line: A Few Concerns
The Ravens’ offensive line has the potential to be one of the best in the league. Ronnie Stanley is returning as a Pro Bowl left tackle, and Tyler Linderbaum is entering his second full season as the team’s center. However, there are some concerns on the line.
The departure of Ben Powers and Trystan Colon leaves a hole at left guard. The team will need to rely on Malaesala Aumavae-Laulu, John Simpson, or Patrick Mekari to step up and fill that position. Additionally, the increasing age of Kevin Zeitler (33 years old) and Morgan Moses (32) raises questions about their long-term effectiveness.
Overall Outlook: A Dangerous Offense
With the changes made this offseason, the Baltimore Ravens’ offense has the potential to be a dangerous force in the upcoming season. The addition of playmakers like Odell Beckham Jr. and Zay Flowers, along with the return of key players from injury, gives the team a more explosive and versatile offense.
The success of the offense will ultimately depend on the health and performance of Lamar Jackson. If he can stay on the field and continue to develop as a passer, the Ravens’ offense will be a force to be reckoned with in the 2023 season.