The NFL calendar keeps moving with the Senior Bowl and Pro Bowl this weekend, the Super Bowl next weekend, and the Combine and free agency not far away.
Here are my thoughts on the Ravens as we head into February, all in 50 words or less:
- Roger Rosengarten looks destined to be a main piece in Baltimore's offensive line for years. If Ronnie Stanley re-signs, Rosengarten should be even better in Year 2 as the starting right tackle. If Stanley departs, the Ravens see Rosengarten as an option at left tackle to protect Lamar Jackson's blindside.
- Speaking of offensive tackles, Pro Football Focus rates that position as one of the strongest in this year's draft. That's good news for the Ravens, who I expect to use at least one draft pick on an offensive tackle.
- It's hard to have too many good edge rushers, and the Ravens should attack that position via free agency, the draft, or both. Texas A&M pass rusher Shemar Stewart has emerged as an early name being mocked to Baltimore, and he is reportedly having a solid week at the Senior Bowl.
- Hiring Chuck Pagano as senior secondary coach was a win for the Ravens. He brings a different perspective to the staff after watching the Ravens from afar. His successful experience as a coordinator and head coach will make him a valuable resource for Head Coach John Harbaugh.
- Pagano will love reuniting with Roquan Smith. They were together for two seasons with the Chicago Bears (2019-20), when Pagano was the defensive coordinator and Smith was a rising star. Now Smith and Pagano will pursue a Super Bowl in Baltimore.
- I have a feeling Isaiah Likely's role will continue to increase in Year 3 of Offensive Coordinator Todd Monken’s system. Likely still has a higher ceiling and has already shown a knack for making big plays.
- Keaton Mitchell faced a difficult challenge in 2024 as he returned from major knee surgery and played in just five games. I'm eager to see how he looks during the spring and summer after more time to rehab. If Mitchell regains his rookie form, the Ravens will have another explosive weapon.
- Pro Bowl fullback Patrick Ricard is a free agent, but General Manager Eric DeCosta said he hopes Ricard retires as a Raven. To me, that's a good indication that Ricard will re-sign. He loves blocking for Derrick Henry and there's a clear role for Ricard in Monken's offense.
- Friday on the "The Pat McAfee Show," Peyton Manning said he believes Jackson and Josh Allen will win a Super Bowl, and that he'd rather "have his heart ripped out" in the playoffs than finish 7-10. Manning had the resiliency to keep coming back. Jackson is built for this journey, too.
- Glad to see Kyle Hamilton and Marlon Humphrey cutting it up at the Pro Bowl. There's no denying they'd rather be preparing for the Super Bowl, but the Pro Bowl is a reward for a great season, and the trip was well-earned by both players.
