Baltimore Ravens defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald talks to the media during an NFL football media availability, Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024, in Owings Mills, Md. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)
With just 16.5 points allowed per game, the most number of sacks in the league (60), and constant terrorization of opposing offenses, the Baltimore Ravens defense was the best in the NFL this season. This year’s success for Baltimore under Mike Macdonald was largely due to defensive tackle Justin Madubuike’s excellent play.
Madubuike became one of the NFL’s most dominant defensive tackles in a contract year, taking the league by storm. With 33 quarterback hits, 13 sacks, and 12 tackles for loss—all career highs—he led the Ravens in all categories.
But now that Madubuike is about to become a free agent, it’s time for him to capitalize on his outstanding season-long performance. Maintaining the standout defensive tackle is Baltimore’s top priority this offseason, according to CBS Sports, regardless of whether the team decides to franchise tag him or attempt to reach a long-term agreement. “Set to cash in this spring in free agency, the Ravens have to make sure Madubuike doesn’t get to that point,” writes CBS Sports. “With a pressure rate of 13.4%, Madubuike has been a game-changing player in the interior of the defensive line, recording 65 pressures, 13 sacks, and 33 quarterback hits. Madubuike’s greatest years are yet ahead of him at just 26 years old. He is the best.
There has already been a change defensively for the Ravens as coordinator Mike Macdonald is now with the Seattle Seahawks, defensive line coach Anthony Weaver is now the defensive coordinator for the Miami Dolphins, and defensive backs coach Dennard Wilson is headed to the Tennessee Titans. Zach Orr is the new defensive coordinator for the Ravens, getting a promotion from linebackers coach, so there are a lot of moving parts.
But one that can’t be moved is Madubuike. Baltimore must do everything in its power to retain him. By doing so it could mean the end for Patrick Queen as a Raven given he is set to hit free agency as well. Madubuike was a star for the Ravens this year and after his efforts, Baltimore must open the checkbook and get a deal done. Whether that’s via the franchise tag or a long-term deal, don’t let him walk out that door.
