In a bold and strategic move, the Baltimore Ravens are shaking up their defense by re-signing veteran edge rusher Yannick Ngakoue for their 2024 squad. This decision reunites the Ravens with a familiar face, as Ngakoue previously donned the purple and black jersey in 2020 following a midseason trade from the Minnesota Vikings.
Ngakoue's NFL journey has been a winding one, spanning nine years and six different teams. Originally drafted in the third round by the Jacksonville Jaguars, he quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with on the field. His time with the Jaguars from 2016 to 2019 was marked by significant contributions, including consistent sack numbers.
In 2020, Ngakoue's career saw him making brief stops with both the Vikings and the Ravens. During his nine games with Baltimore that season, he recorded three sacks and 26 quarterback pressures, demonstrating his ability to disrupt opposing offenses. His subsequent years took him to the Las Vegas Raiders in 2021, the Indianapolis Colts in 2022, and most recently, the Chicago Bears in 2023.
Despite facing substantial challenges in 2023, including a broken ankle that sidelined him for the final four games of the season, Ngakoue finished the year with a career-low four sacks. This was a stark contrast to his early career, where he amassed at least eight sacks in each of his first seven NFL seasons. Nevertheless, his overall career tally of 69 sacks places him in an elite tie for the ninth most in the league since he entered the NFL, sharing the spot with Joey Bosa.
The decision to bring Ngakoue back comes at a crucial time for the Ravens. Starting the 2024 season with a 1-2 record, the team's pass rush has shown signs of inconsistency. While the Ravens have logged 10 sacks as a team, ranking them ninth in the league, their overall quarterback pressure rate of 27.1% is the fourth worst in the NFL as they enter Week 3. By reintegrating Ngakoue, the Ravens are hoping to invigorate their pass rush and elevate their defensive performance.
Ngakoue's familiarity with the Ravens' defensive schemes and organizational culture will undoubtedly play a key role in his transition back into the team. His previous tenure with the Ravens provided him with valuable insight, likely facilitating a smoother and quicker assimilation back into the fold. His presence on the field could also serve as a source of inspiration and leadership for the younger players on the roster.
As the Ravens navigate the challenges of the 2024 season, Ngakoue's return is poised to be a significant storyline. His ability to generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks and contribute to the team's defensive efforts will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike. Baltimore's coaching staff will undoubtedly be looking to harness Ngakoue's experience and skills to help turn the team's fortunes around and build momentum as the season progresses.
The re-signing of Yannick Ngakoue underscores the Ravens' commitment to reinforcing their pass rush and achieving defensive excellence. With his track record and determination to overcome recent setbacks, Ngakoue's homecoming to Baltimore could very well be the catalyst the Ravens need to regain their footing and make a strong push in the 2024 NFL season.