The NFL offseason is always a whirlwind of trades, signings, and predictions. Recently, a blockbuster trade involving Jalen Ramsey and Jonnu Smith to the Steelers has sparked debate among pundits and fans alike. One such pundit has controversially included the Baltimore Ravens among the losers of this trade. This article delves into the implications of this trade, examining the arguments for and against the Ravens’ inclusion as ‘losers,’ while also touching upon other significant Ravens news, including potential breakout stars and comeback stories.
We’ll dissect the pundit’s reasoning, explore the counterarguments, and provide a comprehensive overview of the Ravens’ current standing in the league. Additionally, we’ll highlight ESPN’s Field Yates’s high praise for Isaiah Likely, Bucky Brooks’s Comeback Player of the Year pick, and Ryan Clark’s power rankings, offering a well-rounded perspective on the Ravens as they head into the season.
Pundit Includes Ravens Among Losers of Steelers’ Blockbuster Trade
The Pittsburgh Steelers made headlines by acquiring cornerback Jalen Ramsey and tight end Jonnu Smith from the Miami Dolphins in exchange for safety Minkah Fitzpatrick. According to CBS Sports’ Tyler Sullivan, this move spells trouble for the Steelers’ rivals, including the Baltimore Ravens.
Sullivan argues that the Steelers are “getting better by the day,” making the AFC North a tougher division. The addition of a future Hall of Fame quarterback (Aaron Rodgers) and now a top corner and dynamic tight end significantly bolsters their roster. While Sullivan admits this may not entirely tip the scales away from teams like the Ravens, he suggests it makes Pittsburgh “no longer a sure-fire win,” potentially impacting Baltimore’s playoff hopes and chances of securing the No. 1 seed in the conference.
This viewpoint, however, is not universally shared. Some argue that the Ravens have made sufficient improvements to remain the team to beat in the AFC North. The acquisition of key players and the development of existing talent could offset the Steelers’ gains.
Debate Over the Best Cornerback Trio in the AFC North
Pro Football Focus’s Dalton Wasserman believes that Ramsey joining Darius Slay and Joey Porter Jr. gives the Steelers the best cornerback trio in the league. However, Ravens Wire’s Glenn Erby contends that the Ravens’ trio of Marlon Humphrey, Jaire Alexander, and Nate Wiggins still holds the top spot.
The Ravens’ investment in their secondary is substantial, and the performance of these cornerbacks will be crucial to their defensive success. Alexander’s experience, combined with Humphrey’s consistency and Wiggins’s potential, creates a formidable unit. The debate over which team possesses the superior cornerback trio adds an intriguing layer to the AFC North rivalry.
Are the Steelers Actually Super Bowl Contenders?
Despite the Steelers’ high-profile acquisitions, not everyone is convinced that they have significantly improved their Super Bowl chances. The Ringer’s Diante Lee points out that while the Steelers upgraded at cornerback, they lost a five-time Pro Bowler and defensive leader in Fitzpatrick.
Lee argues that the Steelers’ moves feel like “solutions to non-issues,” questioning whether swapping out players like George Pickens for DK Metcalf truly elevates the team. He also notes that the Steelers’ Super Bowl odds only marginally improved after the trade, and their over/under on wins remains at 8.5 games, suggesting that the team’s overall outlook hasn’t drastically changed.
ESPN’s Field Yates Predicts Breakout Season for Isaiah Likely
Turning to more positive Ravens news, ESPN’s Field Yates believes that tight end Isaiah Likely is poised for a breakout season and could become one of the best tight ends in the NFL. Yates notes Likely’s talent and potential, suggesting that he could soon be mentioned in the same breath as Derrick Henry and Lamar Jackson.
Yates acknowledges that Mark Andrews is still a significant presence in the Ravens’ offense, but he anticipates a future where Likely becomes a focal point. Head Coach John Harbaugh also has high expectations for Likely, stating that he wants to see him become an All-Pro.
Bucky Brooks’s Long-Shot Pick: Jaire Alexander for Comeback Player of the Year
NFL.com analyst Bucky Brooks has identified Jaire Alexander as his long-shot pick for Comeback Player of the Year. Alexander, who signed with the Ravens this offseason, has the talent and opportunity to revitalize his career in Baltimore. Brooks highlights Alexander’s versatility and lock-down skills, suggesting that he could be the CB1 the Ravens need to compete against the AFC’s high-powered offenses.
Alexander’s odds to win the award are +7500 on DraftKings Sportsbook, making him a compelling dark horse candidate. If he can stay healthy and rediscover his All-Pro form, Alexander could significantly impact the Ravens’ defense and contend for the Comeback Player of the Year award.
Ravens Ranked No. 2 in Ryan Clark’s Power Rankings
ESPN’s Ryan Clark has placed the Ravens at No. 2 in his power rankings, citing the addition of Jaire Alexander as a key reason. Clark believes that Alexander’s presence, along with other talented defensive backs like Marlon Humphrey and Nate Wiggins, gives the Ravens tremendous flexibility on defense.
Clark also acknowledges the Ravens’ offensive firepower, led by Derrick Henry and Lamar Jackson. The only team ranked above the Ravens in Clark’s power rankings is the defending Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles, highlighting the high expectations surrounding the Ravens this season.
Have the Ravens Improved in the Trenches?
One lingering question surrounding the Ravens is whether they have done enough to improve in the trenches. The Athletic’s Jeff Zrebiec points out that the Ravens’ season-ending loss to the Bills can be attributed, in part, to their performance at the line of scrimmage.
The Ravens lost several key players in the offseason, including Patrick Mekari, Josh Jones, Michael Pierce, and Brent Urban. While they drafted three offensive linemen and one interior defensive lineman, the only one taken before Day 3 is recovering from shoulder surgery. The Ravens’ success this season may hinge on their ability to solidify their offensive and defensive lines.
Final Thoughts: Ravens’ Outlook for the Upcoming Season
In conclusion, while some pundits may view the Ravens as ‘losers’ in the Steelers’ blockbuster trade, the overall outlook for the team remains optimistic. The Ravens have made significant additions to their roster, and key players are poised for breakout seasons. The debate over the best cornerback trio in the AFC North adds an exciting dimension to the rivalry between the Ravens and Steelers.
The potential of Isaiah Likely, the comeback story of Jaire Alexander, and the high ranking in Ryan Clark’s power rankings all contribute to the sense that the Ravens are well-positioned for success in the upcoming season. While questions remain about their performance in the trenches, the team’s overall talent and potential make them a top contender in the AFC.
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