Challenges Await New Ravens Offensive Coordinator

The Ravens have some uncertainty with the current roster and these issues are looming for the next offensive coordinator.

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — Whoever gets the job as the Ravens' new offensive coordinator will face some challenges and uncertainty with the roster.

Here's a look at what lies ahead.

The Future of Lamar Jackson

The biggest question is whether quarterback Lamar Jackson will be with the team. 

Jackson and the Ravens are at an impasse with their contract negotiations. Baltimore will likely place a franchise tag on him as they continue to trade offers. 

There is speculation the team could trade him for several first-round draft picks if they cannot reach a deal. If the Ravens decide to hold onto him, Jackson might choose not to participate in off-season workouts.

This would be the biggest challenge facing the offensive coordinator because it's difficult to formulate a strategy when the quarterback situation is unsettled.

Rev Up the Passing Attack

The Ravens passing offense was ranked 28th in the NFL, averaging 178.8 yards per game. Baltimore's wide receivers scored just seven touchdowns in 17 games. Demarcus Robinson led the wide receivers with 48 receptions for just 458 yards and two touchdowns.

The new offensive coordinator will be tasked with having more explosive plays downfield. GM Eric DeCosta plans to add more playmakers this offseason to help the cause. However, the Ravens also need a quarterback to get these playmakers the ball. 

Both Jackson and backup quarterback Tyler Huntley have struggled at times to convert passes downfield. However, the Ravens need to upgrade this part of the offense to keep up with the other AFC powers, such as the Chiefs, Bills, and Bengals.

Keep the Running Game Dominant

While the passing offense has struggled, the Ravens have one of the NFL's best running attacks. This past season, Baltimore produced the NFL's No. 2 rush offense (160.0 ypg) and the league's third-best yards-per-carry average (5.17). The Ravens racked up an NFL-high 12 games with at least 150 rushing yards.

Still, running back J.K. Dobbins expressed some frustration about his workload following the playoff loss to the Bengals. So, he will want to be more involved in the offense next season. There is some talk that fellow running back Gus Edwards could be a salary-cap casualty and the Ravens will have to replace his production.

The new offensive coordinator will have to maintain that balance between running and throwing the football ... and keeping everyone happy with their touches. 

That's never an easy task.

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