5 reasons to get super excited for Ravens training camp
• Here are five things fans should be excited about in training camp.
2. A full year with Roquan Smith
Speaking of defense, the Ravens' defense was phenomenal following the acquisition of Roquan Smith. Smith’s presence made a solid defense elite, as he elevated everyone’s play, while also producing at an elite level. The goal is now for that to carry over.
When the Ravens extended Roquan Smith, making him the highest-paid linebacker in sports, FanSided’s Kristen Wong explained why Smith is worth every penny.
"Prior to the trade, the Ravens’ defense had allowed 22.9 points per game, 364.3 total yards per game, 4.4 yards per carry, and a 61.3 percent red zone touchdown rate."
"After acquiring Smith, the Ravens’ defense allowed 14.7 points per game (second-best in the NFL), 288.8 total yards per game (third-best in the NFL), 3.5 yards per carry, and a 28.0 percent red zone touchdown rate."
- Kristen Wong
Smith had that kind of effect on the defense by joining the team midseason. He’s now been with the team all offseason and will be leading the defense from day one of training camp. Under his lead, Baltimore has a chance to be a scary unit for all 17 games next season.