In a significant move designed to strengthen their pass rush, the Baltimore Ravens are welcoming back veteran edge rusher Yannick Ngakoue for the 2024 season. This strategic reunion brings Ngakoue back to the Ravens four years after his initial stint with the team, which began following a midseason trade from the Minnesota Vikings during the 2020 season.
Ngakoue's NFL Journey
Yannick Ngakoue has journeyed across the NFL over the past nine years, playing for six different teams. Originally a third-round pick by the Jacksonville Jaguars, Ngakoue quickly made an impression on the league. During his tenure with the Jaguars from 2016 to 2019, he accumulated notable statistics that cemented his reputation as a formidable edge rusher. In 2020, after brief periods with both the Vikings and the Ravens, Ngakoue moved on to the Las Vegas Raiders in 2021, the Indianapolis Colts in 2022, and the Chicago Bears in 2023.
First Stint with the Ravens
During his first stint with the Ravens in 2020, Ngakoue played nine games, tallying three sacks and 26 quarterback pressures. Despite the limited time, his performance left a lasting impression on the Ravens' coaching staff and front office. His ability to adapt quickly to their defensive schemes and contribute immediately is likely a key factor in their decision to bring him back.
Career Highlights and Challenges
Ngakoue’s career numbers are impressive. He has amassed a total of 69 career sacks, tying him for the ninth most in the NFL alongside Joey Bosa since he entered the league. Consistency has been a hallmark of Ngakoue's career, as he recorded at least eight sacks in each of his first seven NFL seasons. However, 2023 presented significant challenges, as he suffered a broken ankle while playing for the Bears, which sidelined him for the final four games of the season. This injury contributed to his career-low four sacks in that year.
Ravens' Current Season Struggles
The Ravens have kicked off the 2024 season with a 1-2 record and are currently experiencing some defensive struggles. As a team, they have logged 10 sacks, placing them ninth in the league. However, their overall quarterback pressure rate of 27.1% ranks as the fourth worst in the NFL entering Week 3 of the season. Bolstering their pass rush is imperative if the Ravens are to turn their season around and make a playoff push.
Impact of Ngakoue’s Return
Ngakoue’s return to the Ravens is seen as both a strategic and practical move. His familiarity with the Ravens' defensive schemes and organizational culture should facilitate a smoother transition and quicker assimilation back into the team. The hope is that Ngakoue can quickly regain his prior form and boost the Ravens' pass rush, providing much-needed pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
As the Ravens navigate through the challenges of the early season, the addition of a proven pass rusher like Yannick Ngakoue could prove to be a pivotal moment. His experience and track record suggest that he has the potential to make an immediate impact, helping to balance the defense and instill greater confidence in the unit.
With Ngakoue back in the fold, the Ravens' faithful will be watching closely, hopeful that this familiar face can once again bring the spark that the defense needs. As the rest of the 2024 season unfolds, both the team and its fans will be eager to see if this reunion leads to a resurgence in Baltimore’s defensive prowess.