The story of the Baltimore Ravens’ 2025 season was defensive disappointment. From start to finish, the entire unit faltered, and that included major letdowns from long-term standouts. Roquan Smith was not immune from those struggles.
Entering his ninth NFL season, Smith has become known as one of the best linebackers in football. He’s a three-time first-team All-Pro, two-time second-team All-Pro, and four-time Pro Bowler. One of those Pro Bowls did come last year, but after the troubles he endured, it’s clear that was more due to name value.
Smith remains a talented player, though. Baltimore’s defensive issues were largely due to Zach Orr’s foolish scheming. And if you don’t believe that, take the words of NFL personnel members for it. In a survey conducted by ESPN, Smith ranked second among the league’s top linebackers.
With that support, Smith can reward their faith with a star-level rebound.
Baltimore Ravens LB Roquan Smith still has a lot left in the tank
At 29 years old coming off a disappointing campaign, many are wondering just how much Roquan Smith has left in the tank. He looked a step slow in 2025, which let opposing ballcarriers dial up extra yards to keep the chains moving. He also allowed far too much production through, as he allowed a 102.3 passer rating, per Pro Football Focus.
Again, though, former defensive coordinator Zach Orr did anything but set up his defense for success. Notably, his relaxed pass coverages allowed quarterbacks to pick Baltimore apart. As for the run defense, a troublesome defensive front made linebackers like Smith massive targets for oncoming offensive linemen ready to hit the second level with vengeance.
Thankfully, the tide is turning in Charm City. On the coaching front, Jesse Minter and Anthony Weaver will have their defense firing on all cylinders. Minter is undoubtedly one of the best defensive minds in the game, and Weaver knows how to fire up and prepare his players for the brutality of a football game. That combination should bring the best back out in Smith.
The players lining up in front of Smith will also help him return to the game-wrecking player that fans know he can be. The interior defensive front got better with the addition of Calais Campbell, and Nnamdi Madubuike could be back on the field, as well.
Then, off the edge, Trey Hendrickson and Zion Young could bring the firepower that the Ravens missed in 2025. Hendrickson’s pass rushing prowess should protect those dropping back in coverage, and Young’s ability to set a firm edge will let Smith and company fire in and win at the line of scrimmage.
Overall, 2026 will be very telling for Smith. He and many other defenders can make the case that last year’s struggles occurred due to a questionable year from the coaching staff. However, if they can’t bounce back under Minter’s tutelage, bigger questions could start to reach the horizon.
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