Ravens’ LB Unit Still Among NFL’s Best
The Baltimore Ravens improved their group of pass-catchers by signing experienced wide receiver Keith Kirkwood. After performing well during a tryout at the time of the team’s mandatory minicamp earlier in June, the Ravens decided to add him to their 90-man roster.
Kirkwood, now in his seventh NFL season, hasn’t made a significant impact in the league yet. So far, he has only 24 catches for 294 yards and three touchdowns in his career. He now joins a talented wide receiving corps that includes Zay Flowers, Rashod Bateman, and Nelson Agholor.
On the defensive side, the Ravens remain confident despite losing one of their starters. They boast some of the best off-ball linebackers in the NFL, including Roquan Smith, who is fresh off his second All-Pro season. With Patrick Queen no longer in the lineup, second-year linebacker Trenton Simpson is expected to step up and fill the gap.
A third-round pick from Clemson, Simpson flashed potential as a rookie and now faces the challenge of taking on a more prominent role.
Keith Kirkwood’s NFL Journey
Keith Kirkwood’s NFL career has been a journey of resilience and determination. The New Jersey native began his career with the New Orleans Saints as an undrafted free agent in 2018. He later signed with the Carolina Panthers in 2020 before returning to the Saints’ practice squad in 2022. This signing by the Baltimore Ravens marks his first time playing for a team outside the NFC South.
While Kirkwood has found it challenging to secure a lasting spot in the league, his impressive size at 6-3 and 215 pounds offers a promising addition to the Ravens’ roster. He suited up for a career-high 13 games last season, showcasing his potential value as a reliable depth player.
His signing comes just two days after the Ravens released undrafted free-agent receiver Tayvion Robinson, returning the team to the 91-man roster limit. Edge rusher David Ojabo added an international exception.
As the team gears up for the upcoming season, Kirkwood’s presence could prove beneficial, especially for those eyeing potential player performance on FanDuel sports bets.
Ravens Linebacker Unit Ranked Among NFL’s Elite
Despite some changes, the Ravens’ linebacker group remains one of the top units in the NFL. According to a ranking by Gordon McGuiness of Pro Football Focus, the Ravens’ linebackers are placed at No. 6. This ranking puts them behind the New York Jets, Chicago Bears, San Francisco 49ers, New York Giants, and New England Patriots.
Roquan Smith is a key player for the Ravens. Coming off his second All-Pro season, Smith’s ability and leadership are crucial. He alone has the talent to push the Ravens’ linebacker unit higher in the rankings.
Trenton Simpson is also in the spotlight. As a second-year linebacker, he is expected to take on a more significant role. If he performs well this season, the Ravens could improve their linebacker ranking even further. While Smith is a proven star, the development of Simpson could be a game-changer for the Ravens’ defense.
The Takeaway
The Baltimore Ravens have added veteran wide receiver Keith Kirkwood to strengthen their offense, while their linebacker unit remains one of the best in the NFL. Roquan Smith’s leadership and Trenton Simpson’s potential growth are critical for success this season.
The team’s strategic moves signal their readiness to tackle challenges and aim for a strong performance in the upcoming NFL season.
