Ravens Free Agency: Can DC Mike Macdonald Keep Baltimore's Defense a Top Unit?

The Baltimore Ravens were among the best defensively in the NFL last season. Should we expect more of the same from Macdonald's unit next year with a host of players entering free agency?

The Baltimore Ravens' defense under Mike Macdonald last season was one of the league's best. They ranked third in points allowed (18.5) and had Lamar Jackson played the entire season, there was a real chance that the Ravens could have been AFC North champions.

Jackson had an 8-4 record, and the defense was playing to a high level. Of course, we know what happened once Lamar was injured, but for the most part, Macdonald's defense played lights out.

Enduring a superb first season as defensive coordinator after taking over from Don Martindale - who moved to the New York Giants - attention now turns to Macdonald and what his unit can do this upcoming year.

But first...

The Ravens have to sort out several free-agency issues. Justin Houston led the team in sacks (9.5) and quarterback hits (17) and is a free agent. Other free agents include Kyle Fuller, Jason Pierre-Paul, Marcus Peters, and Steven Means.

Given that Houston was one of the best defensive players on the roster last year, despite his age, Baltimore might consider bringing him back for another season. Peters is a decent enough cornerback and Pierre-Paul can still cause havoc along the defensive line. Hmm, decisions.

So, what can we expect from Macdonald's defense if those free agency moves get sorted (not to mention Lamar's current situation)? 

In short, to be stifling yet again.

Linebacker Roquan Smith adapted to MacDonald's defensive scheme well and became a star alongside Houston as the Ravens' knack of being an outstanding defensive football team was true yet again.

Baltimore had four players registered over five sacks last season. Houston (9.5), Justin Madubuike, Calais Campbell, and Patrick Queen all had 5.5 sacks on the year.

Just six times last year the Ravens' defense gave up 24 points or more as, for the most part, scoring on Macdonald's unit took a lot of work to do. 

On top of that, Baltimore ranked sixth in sacks (48), 12th in interceptions (14), tenth in forced fumbles (14), and was the fourth-best team in the league at stopping third-down conversions. They allowed a conversion only 36.04% of the time. 

That'll work.

The expectations for Macdonald's unit should be much of the same next season. A stifling, bruising defense that sacks the quarterback and forces the opponents off the field.

Jackson's contract situation will largely determine how much impact the defense will need to have on any game. If Lamar is under center, this Ravens team, on the back of a stellar defense, can push themselves firmly into Super Bowl contention.

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