The third-year linebacker is entering a make-or-break season with the Ravens
The Baltimore Ravens’ defense finished the 2024 season strong following multiple personnel changes. The unit should look much of the same in 2025, with a majority of the same starters returning. Still, several roles are waiting to be filled by new players this year.
Today’s Question of the Day is:
Which Ravens player could have a bigger role on offense in 2025?
My answer: Trenton Simpson
Simpson did not have the season that many were hoping for in 2024. The 2023 third-round linebacker was expected to fill the void at weakside linebacker left by Patrick Queen, but ultimately, Simpson was not ready for the job and was benched during the season. Malik Harrison and Chris Board split time as the primary replacements at linebacker next to middle linebacker Roquan Smith, but neither player re-signed with the Ravens this offseason, leaving the role up for grabs again.
Simpson’s speed offers a nice complement to Smith in the middle of the defense, but physical speed is only part of the game. Mental processing is crucial for NFL inside linebackers, and Simpson appeared to struggle at times in this regard last season. This is common for young linebackers transitioning to the pro level, as even Queen took several years to become the Pro Bowl linebacker he was when he left Baltimore.
Simpson’s main competition for the opening appears to be rookie fourth-round pick Teddye Buchanan unless the Ravens opt to bring in a veteran to add to the mix. A reunion with former Baltimore linebacker C.J. Mosley was reportedly a possibility earlier this offseason, but Mosley opted to retire instead due to a neck injury. Simpson’s leash will be short this season if he is unable to take his game to the next level, but he has the physical ability to be a playmaker for the Ravens this year if he can process and play faster with more experience under his belt now.
Which Ravens player do you think could have a bigger role on defense in 2025? Scroll down to the comment section and let us know!