Don “Wink” Martindale promoted as Ravens’ defensive coordinator

The Baltimore Ravens have stayed in-house and promoted linebackers coach Don Martindale to defensive coordinator

The Baltimore Ravens began their search for a defensive coordinator right after their crushing 31-27 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 17. Long-time defensive coordinator Dean Pees announced his retirement after six seasons shortly after the loss.

Just over a week later, the Ravens have found their replacement and they’re staying in-house. The team announced today that they’ve promoted linebackers coach Don “Wink” Martindale to the position.

Even with rumors of a Chuck Pagano reunion, the Ravens decided to go with Martindale. Some fans may be frustrated but this move shouldn’t be surprising. Martindale is the sixth straight defensive coordinator the Ravens have promoted in-house. It’s Ozzie Newsome‘s mantra and he’s stuck with that.

Martindale joined the Ravens coaching staff in 2011 and has served as the team’s linebackers coach. He’s helped develop the All-Pro talent of C.J. Mosley and many of the other young linebackers. He received high praise and should be a popular hire among the players. His only other defensive coordinator job in the NFL came with the Denver Broncos in 2010. Under Martindale’s reign, the Broncos defense ranked 25th against the pass and 31st against the run. That could cause room for concern but this is different times with a different team and Martindale inherits a plethora of talent on the defensive side of the football.

After a solid defensive year, it was that unit that let up the Andy Dalton to Tyler Boyd touchdown to knock the Ravens out of the playoffs. Dean Pees received heavy criticism for his relaxed coverage in crucial defensive situations. Martindale will look to change that with his aggressive style of defense.

Along with Martindale’s promotion, the Ravens also made two more changes on the defensive coaching staff according to ESPN’s Jamison Hensley. Secondary coach Mike Macdonald is promoted to linebackers and Sterling Lucas is hired as a defensive quality control coach.

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Even with the glaring needs on offense, the Ravens still believe they can win a championship by dominating on the defensive side of the ball. Martindale is promoted with confidence that he can make that happen.