Are Ravens Setting Zach Orr Up For Failure?

The Baltimore Ravens will have a new defensive coordinator in 2024, and there's one simple way the franchise can help the young play-caller succeed in Year One at the helm.

Baltimore Ravens' newly-hired defensive coordinator Zach Orr will be one of the youngest play-callers in the NFL next season. 

At just 31 years old, Orr takes over a Ravens defense that set NFL records by being the first team ever to lead the league in points allowed, takeaways, and sacks.  

USA TODAY

While the pressure will certainly be on Orr to continue the success that former coordinator Mike Macdonald had, the Ravens need to do right by their new play-caller and set him up for success. 

Setting a coach up for success is not something you usually hear in NFL circles. Usually, it's the coach's job to set players up for success with the use of schemes, adjustments, and in-game calls. By that account, Orr will be under the microscope. 

Organizations should not just try and get players to be set up for success, though. 

Baltimore is set to lose several key starters from their top defense in 2024. Linebacker Patrick Queen, defensive tackle Justin Madubuike, and pass rushers Jadeveon Clowney and Kyle Van Noy will all hit free agency this offseason. There are also lingering questions surrounding cornerback Marlon Humphrey that could cloud the Pro-Bowler's future in Charm City. 

In short, Baltimore's top defense last season could look a lot different in 2024. It will be up to general manager Eric DeCosta to not only bring back some key players but also add to the unit to give a young play-caller like Orr the talent needed to be successful. 

Ravens Free Agency Rumors: Marlon Humphrey Potential Cap Casualty?

Whether it's adding a pass rusher in the 2024 NFL Draft, signing a linebacker, or bringing back most of their unit, the Ravens need to do right by Orr by setting himself up for success. 

If most of the top players walk, there's a good chance that the numbers won't look too pretty for Baltimore's former linebacker, and anger a fanbase that is already supremely frustrated. 

If Baltimore is serious about competing for another championship run, making sure their current coaching staff is set up for success should be their primary goal this offseason.