Ravens Hire Zach Orr as Coordinator; 'Patience' With All-Pro as Coach?

Newly appointed defensive coordinator Zach Orr has his work cut out for him in 2024 with the Baltimore Ravens, but should not be judged on the previous season's results.

In 2023, the Baltimore Ravens' defense put up historically-important numbers. They were the first unit in NFL history to lead the league in points allowed, sacks, and takeaways. 

But now come changes to this championship-level organization, first on the coaching staff.

Things will look a lot different for the unit both on and off the field in 2024. ... and a little patience might be needed. 

© Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

Defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald has left to be the head coach of the Seattle Seahawks, and Dennard Wilson has left his cozy defensive back coach role for the defensive coordinator position at Tennessee. 

That leaves Baltimore turning to former All-Pro linebacker and linebacker coach Zach Orr to run their defense in 2024. 

As coaches go, Orr is unusually young for a role that comes with such prestige. At 31 years old, he is the second youngest coordinator in the NFL - but we can argue that he comes qualified for the role. 

His work with Roquan Smith and Patrick Queen had both playing at an All-Pro level in 2023. A large reason for Baltimore securing the best record in the league this year had to do with their stud linebackers in the middle. 

Queen is a pending free agent though, along with several other starters on Baltimore's top unit. The group that Orr is taking control of may not be the same as they enter a new season. 

That shows that while the numbers may not be the same next year, Orr should be given the patience and time needed to develop his system for a unit that will be thinking of reaching the Conference Championship game once again. 

Ravens DC Mike Macdonald Reportedly Expected to be Named Seahawks Head Coach

In the modern NFL, patience is not the virtue that maybe it should be. With contending teams and tight championship windows and billions of dollars at stake, fans and ownership often feel the need to see immediate results, or major changes will be made. But that isn't exactly fair to someone like Orr. 

The former undrafted free agent turned All-Pro needs to be given multiple years to have his input on a talented unit. We assume that the Ravens - who love the continuity of what head coach John Harbaugh brings - see it that same way.