Being a Ravens fan isn’t without its ups and downs. Although the team hasn’t won a Super Bowl since 2012, they have made the playoffs four times, also winning two AFC North Division titles. Although the Ravens reached the playoffs in 2020, last season was tough. Losing Lamar Jackson for five games, as well as missing out on full seasons from the likes of Marcus Peters, Ronnie Stanley, Gus Edwards, Marlon Humphrey and many more.
Aside from being almost a full team of players who missed out on the whole season due to injury, these were all regular first-team players. Without them, it was little surprise that the Ravens struggled so much, although they still finished 8-9. Should those missing players find full fitness again and be reintegrated into the team, it’s possible that fans can expect a great season.
Of course, things don’t always work that way. Sometimes being an NFL fan is a lot like playing casino games at free online casinos. There are a lot of ups and downs, and you never really know what to expect. The Ravens had more injuries than any other team in 2021, and they’ve already recruited some talented new players. If all goes well, it’s certainly possible that they can surprise a lot of fans in 2022. Here’s why.
The Return of Lamar Jackson
Last season, injuries really affected the Ravens but none more so than that of quarterback Lamar Jackson. As the only player in NFL history to have more than 2,500 passing yards and 1,000+ running yards in the same season, it’s easy to see why the Ravens would miss him. Additionally, he holds the record for having more than 7,500 passing yards and 3,500 rushing yards in a player’s first four seasons in the NFL. While his passer rating has decreased over the last few seasons, that has been partly down to circumstances rather than a loss of ability.
The importance of Lamar Jackson is highlighted by the team’s performance with and without him. He missed five games in total, including the final four. Without him, the Ravens were 1-4 while they were 7-5 with him. Keeping him fit and surrounding him with the players he needs to succeed will be incredibly important for the team if they want to improve in 2022 and reach the playoffs.
Potential Breakout Stars
When he tore his ACL in the Ravens’ final preseason game, J.K. Dobbins was denied the breakout season that many had predicted for him last year. Big things are expected of the third-year running back going into this season. A Dobbins who can stay fit throughout the season will be capable of leading the team in carries, and 2022 could finally be his breakout year.
Justin Madubuike is another player who many are predicting to have his breakout year for the Ravens. The third-year defensive tackle started eleven games last season, impressing against the Packers and showing some great skills. Most recently, he’s impressed a lot in pre-season OTAs, and this could be a big year for him.
New Recruits
The Ravens have been busy in the offseason with trades and picking up new recruits. Charlie Kolar, a tight end signed from Iowa State could be one of the most interesting to watch. After losing Marquise Brown in the draft, recruiting new pass catchers was a must. Kolar will likely fill this hole alongside Mark Andrews and is sure to get a lot of game time as a result.
Steven Means is another interesting acquisition for the Ravens. Signed from the Atlanta Falcons off the back of his best-ever season in terms of individual stats, Means will be a welcome addition to the Mike Macdonald’s unit. The linebacker brings in a lot of experience and leadership and will hit the ground running if he can stay free from injury.
