The Baltimore Ravens do not have many question marks facing them heading into the 2025 season. Eric DeCosta did another outstanding job this offseason, and there are very few holes on this year’s roster. Even at the starting positions where there may be question marks, the players looking to take over those roles have the potential to be serviceable starters. However, there is one area that could cause major concern, and it surrounds an entire group.
Baltimore has a history of dominance on special teams. Head Coach John Harbaugh’s knowledge of the unit has helped them have some of the most consistent play in the league over his 17-year tenure. The past couple of seasons have looked different, though, and 2025 could raise red flags. Can they find success on special teams this year?
Shaky special-teams play could doom the Ravens in 2025
The most obvious question on special teams is who will replace Justin Tucker. Rookies Tyler Loop and John Hoyland are duking it out, and the team’s upcoming training camp should start to show some separation between the two. However, for now, there is a ton of uncertainty. They both had strong outings in Baltimore’s offseason activities, and while each also had their struggles, it can be tough to judge as they are each working on their mechanics.
If the eventual starting kicker proves he cannot handle the pressure, it could spell a concerning issue for Baltimore. While the high-powered offense found the end zone at a historic rate in 2024, they will need a clutch kicker to turn to in the big moments. Loop or Hoyland must provide that this season, but this rising issue goes beyond kicking.
Punter Jordan Stout has had his fair share of inconsistencies throughout his three-year career. He has one of the strongest legs of any punter in the league, but also tends to shank some punts, giving opponents exceptional field position. 2025 is an important year for Stout, as he will become an unrestricted free agent in 2026. If he cannot nail down his mechanics this season, the Ravens' punting problem could become even more pronounced.
Finally, the return game is missing some firepower. Since two-time Pro Bowler Devin Duvernay departed, there has been a lack of juice on kick and punt returns. Wide receiver Tylan Wallace can be serviceable, although he is not a feared threat. But, the answers to this question could already be on Baltimore’s roster.
Rookie wide receiver LaJohntay Wester and speedy running back Keaton Mitchell have the juice Baltimore needs. Wester fielded punts during college and is showcasing that ability to coaches this offseason. Mitchell, while he has little return experience, has expressed the desire to return kicks. A player with his home run ability needs the ball in his hands, and kick returns might be the best way to do it.
While the Ravens are one of the best-built teams in the league, if the entire special teams unit crumbles, it could be their downfall in 2025.