Pro Football Focus' Jim Wyman recently released his Highest-Graded Safeties from the 2024 Season. To our surprise, two members of the Baltimore Ravens made the list: Kyle Hamilton and Ar'Darius Washington.
It is no surprise that Hamilton made the list. He does everything for the Ravens' defense—rushes the quarterback, plays multiple positions, and can cover almost anyone. He came in second with a grade of 90, barely behind the Detroit Lions' Kerby Joseph, who led the league with nine interceptions. Most people will not forget how the Ravens' defense struggled early in the season and how that all changed when Washington took over the safety position from Marcus Williams and provided a much-needed boost.
Coming off the bench, he allowed Hamilton to play more in his natural position of deep safety. Washington had two interceptions, but his biggest play came when he forced a fumble close to the goal line against the Pittsburgh Steelers, a jolt that catapulted the Ravens toward the Week 17 victory. His play earned him a grade of 80.9, eighth in the league.
It is also important to note that the defense significantly improved when the Ravens brought in longtime coach Dean Pees to help first-year defensive coordinator Zach Orr. Pees will stay on next year, joined by Chuck Pagano (who will join the Ravens for his third stint as a coach), Tyler Santucci, and Donald D'Alseio.
This offseason, the Ravens have lost Marcus Williams, Brandon Stephens, and Arthur Maulet in the secondary. Despite the losses, the Ravens have failed to add anyone at the position. Our top choice was Darius Slay, but he signed with the Steelers. The Ravens restructured the contract of Marlon Humphrey, creating $13 million in cap space. Some top corners left include Stephon Gilmore, Asante Samuel Jr., and Rasul Douglas.
Hypothetical secondary:
Left Corner | Nickel Corner | Safety | Safety | Right Corner |
|---|---|---|---|---|
FA/Draft Aquisition | Marlon Humphrey | Ar'Darius Washington | Kyle Hamilton | Nate Wiggins |
The Ravens' secondary has already shown flashes of dominance, and with the right additions, it could be downright terrifying in 2025. Hamilton is a certified superstar, Washington proved he's more than just a fill-in, and Wiggins has the makings of a high-end starter. Add in the coaching wisdom of a guy like Pagano, and this unit has all the tools to thrive.
Of course, Baltimore still needs to add another cornerback to round out the group. Whether that comes via free agency or the draft, it’s only a matter of time before they make a move. If they find the right piece and let Humphrey settle into the nickel, this defense could be as suffocating as it was in 2023—maybe even better.
One thing’s for sure: the foundation is set, and the Ravens are in position to unleash a secondary that opposing quarterbacks will hate facing in 2025.