In a significant move designed to strengthen their defensive front, the Baltimore Ravens have opted to bring back veteran edge rusher Yannick Ngakoue for the 2024 season. This decision aims to bolster their pass rush and improve their chances in a season that has seen its early struggles.
Ngakoue's return to the Ravens marks a reunion four years in the making, following his brief but impactful stint with the team during the 2020 season. That year saw him arrive in Baltimore after a midseason trade from the Minnesota Vikings. With a career that has spanned nine years and six teams, Ngakoue brings a wealth of experience back to the Ravens' defensive lineup.
Originally drafted in the third round by the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2016, Ngakoue quickly established himself as a force on the edge. He played for the Jaguars until 2019, earning a reputation for his ability to disrupt opposing quarterbacks. In 2020, Ngakoue's journey took him through brief stops with the Vikings and Ravens before moving on to the Las Vegas Raiders in 2021, Indianapolis Colts in 2022, and Chicago Bears in 2023.
During his initial tenure with the Ravens, he played nine games, recording three sacks and 26 quarterback pressures. Over his career, Ngakoue has accumulated 69 career sacks, tying him for the ninth most in the NFL alongside Joey Bosa since he entered the league. Notably, he managed to post at least eight sacks in each of his first seven NFL seasons, underscoring his consistency and effectiveness as a pass rusher.
A Season of Challenges
However, Ngakoue faced significant challenges in 2023 while with the Chicago Bears. A broken ankle sidelined him for the final four games of the season, leading to a career-low four sacks. This adversity certainly tested Ngakoue's resilience, but his career track record suggests he is capable of bouncing back strongly.
Immediate Impact Needed
The Ravens have stumbled out of the gate in 2024, starting with a 1-2 record. Despite their struggles, the team has logged 10 sacks as a unit, which ranks them ninth in the league. Yet, with an overall quarterback pressure rate of 27.1%, the Ravens find themselves fourth worst in the NFL as they head into Week 3. This statistic highlights a critical area that the Ravens need to address urgently.
Ngakoue's familiarity with the Ravens' defensive schemes and organizational culture should aid in a smoother transition back into the team. His experience and veteran presence could provide the spark needed to elevate the Ravens' pass rush and overall defensive performance.
Given his track record and the Ravens' need for an effective pass rusher, this acquisition might just be the catalyst the team requires to turn their season around. Ravens supporters will be eagerly anticipating Ngakoue's impact as the season progresses, hoping his return can translate into immediate on-field success.