The Baltimore Ravens’ defense was horrendous for most of the 2024 season. However, the latter half of the year saw the defense transform into one of the best units in the league. As defensive coordinator Zach Orr gained experience, he helped bring Baltimore back to its usual spot as a feared defense. But the experience of others was just as critical.
It took some time for cornerback Nate Wiggins to figure out the league last season. However, once he earned a role as a mainstay in the Ravens defense, he didn’t look back. He put together an impressive rookie campaign, but the second-year pro wants to leap into superstardom in 2025, and his goals would make Ravens Hall of Famer Ed Reed proud.
On The Lounge Podcast with Ravens’ insiders Ryan Mink and Garrett Downing, Wiggins revealed his aspirations for 2025, and it’ll get fans excited.
“Just really to get 10 plus turnovers,” Wiggins said. “It don’t matter if it’s interceptions or forced fumbles. I need 10.”
Nate Wiggins is trying to join elite company
The only player in Baltimore Ravens history to force 10 or more turnovers in a single season is Reed, who did it twice in 2004 and 2008. That’s some Hall of Fame company that Wiggins is trying to enter. However, he has the confidence and skill set to do so.
At Clemson, Wiggins was known for his tremendous ball skills. Like Reed, he showed a knack for taking the ball the other way for a touchdown. He possesses the rare athletic talent to break on the football and snatch it away in the blink of an eye. All of this translated onto the NFL field last season.
Although he dropped several picks as a rookie, Wiggins constantly forced his way into passing lanes. His quick recovery speed makes him dangerous anytime he’s around the opposing receiver. The struggles of hauling in that first interception finally ended in Week 18 against the Cleveland Browns, culminating in typical Wiggins fashion with six points the other way.
Along with his ambitious goal, Wiggins also looks to improve in every facet of the game next year.
“I really just want to keep on [doing] what I did last year coverage-wise,” Wiggins told Mink and Downing. “And be an all-around cornerback–showing up in the run, covering. So this year is going to be good.”
With better technique and a stronger understanding of the game at the NFL level, Wiggins can reach these goals. He shows the confidence that every defensive back needs on and off the field, which should translate into an outstanding sophomore campaign. It seems far-fetched to set a goal for 10 forced turnovers, but if Wiggins can reach those heights, he’ll cement himself into Defensive Player of the Year conversations and would already be one of the best cornerbacks in the league at just 21 years old.
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