In a strategic maneuver aimed at revitalizing their defensive front, the Baltimore Ravens have decided to bring back a familiar face: veteran edge rusher Yannick Ngakoue, who will join the squad for the 2024 season. This reunion marks the end of a four-year hiatus since his initial stint with the Ravens, which began after a midseason trade from the Minnesota Vikings in 2020.
Ngakoue's return to Baltimore adds a seasoned presence to a team that is seeking to improve their pass rush capabilities. Over his career, Ngakoue has been known for his ability to pressure quarterbacks consistently. In fact, since being drafted in the third round by the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2016, he has accumulated 69 career sacks. This figure places him in a tie for the ninth most in the NFL alongside Joey Bosa during that span.
Career Journey and Stats
Ngakoue's NFL journey has been a testament to his resiliency and skill. He spent the first four years of his career with the Jaguars, where he made a notable impact by consistently amassing sack totals and becoming a key defensive player. His journey continued with brief tenures at the Vikings and Ravens in 2020, followed by stints with the Las Vegas Raiders in 2021, the Indianapolis Colts in 2022, and the Chicago Bears in 2023.
His previous time with the Ravens was marked by a commendable performance, particularly in pressuring opposing quarterbacks. During the 2020 season, Ngakoue played nine games for the Ravens, recording three sacks and an impressive 26 quarterback pressures. This effectiveness on the field made him a valuable addition to their defensive lineup.
Challenges and Resilience
Ngakoue’s 2023 season with the Chicago Bears was one plagued by setbacks, including a broken ankle that sidelined him for the final four games of the season. This injury resulted in a career-low four sacks for the year. Despite these challenges, his overall performance history speaks volumes about his capability and potential impact on the field.
Current Season Outlook
The Baltimore Ravens have started the 2024 season with a 1-2 record and are looking to bolster their defense. The team has recorded ten sacks so far, which places them ninth in the league. However, their overall quarterback pressure rate of 27.1% is the fourth worst in the NFL as they move into Week 3 of the season. This statistic underscores the need for a seasoned pass rusher like Ngakoue, who is familiar with the Ravens' defensive schemes and organizational culture.
Ngakoue’s return is expected to facilitate a smoother transition back into the team, given his previous experience with the Ravens. His ability to adapt quickly and contribute effectively could be the key to improving the team's defensive stats and overall performance for the remainder of the season.
The decision to bring back Ngakoue reflects the Ravens' commitment to strengthening their pass rush and addressing one of their strategic weaknesses. As the season progresses, Ngakoue’s performance will be closely watched to see if he can replicate his previous success and provide the defensive boost the Ravens have been seeking.