10 bold predictions for Baltimore Ravens in 2023

9. Baltimore Ravens have the leagues best defense

The biggest reason that this is a bold call is the surface thoughts of the roster. They lost Calais Campbell, Chuck Clark, and Marcus Peters, and all of them are known as the backbones of the defenses in recent years.

In the case of Peters, and Campbell, they did not do too much to replace them. The same can be said with Clark, although they have a clear in-house player waiting in Kyle Hamilton. Still, the losses are notable, but they are all of an age where it may not be as much of a big deal.

Beyond that, the Ravens' defense may hit a point where they peak. Upfront, Broderick Washington and Justin Madubuike enter contract years so that we may see their best. Even Michael Pierce is healthy, and Travis Jones is now entering year two, which could mean a step.

On the edges, Odafe Oweh could break out, especially next to David Ojabo, who is a key addition this year. Speaking of key additions, the Baltimore Ravens defense was already playing like a top-tier unit when Roquan Smith was traded for.

Smith made the whole unit better but also made Patrick Queen significantly better. Now, the duo has a full offseason to gel with each other. Rock Ya-Sin is replacing Peters, but there are many other depth options. Kyle Hamilton should only get better in year two, and Marcus Williams missed some time last year but is healthy.

When you factor in that Mike MacDonald was a first-year play caller who found his footing towards the end of the season, many things are in place for this unit to improve in the coming season.