In a strategic maneuver to enhance their pass rush, the Baltimore Ravens have welcomed back veteran edge rusher Yannick Ngakoue for their 2024 squad. This marks a significant reunion four years after Ngakoue's initial tenure with the team, which began following a midseason trade from the Minnesota Vikings in 2020.
Ngakoue's NFL journey is nothing short of notable, spanning nine years across six teams. Originally a third-round pick by the Jacksonville Jaguars, he quickly established himself as a formidable presence on the field. From 2016 to 2019, Ngakoue played for the Jaguars, amassing significant stats and proving his worth as a reliable defensive asset.
In 2020, Ngakoue's career took him to the Vikings and subsequently to the Ravens through a midseason trade. During his short stint with Baltimore, he played nine games, recording three sacks and 26 quarterback pressures. His performance, while brief, left a lasting impression on the Ravens’ coaching staff and front office.
A Well-Traveled Career
Following his tenure with the Ravens, Ngakoue's career saw him don the jerseys of several other teams. In 2021, he played for the Las Vegas Raiders, followed by a season with the Indianapolis Colts in 2022, and the Chicago Bears in 2023.
Ngakoue has consistently demonstrated his edge-rushing prowess, accumulating 69 career sacks, tying him for the ninth most in the NFL since he entered the league. Notably, he managed to secure at least eight sacks in each of his first seven NFL seasons, a testament to his consistency and skill on the field.
Challenges in 2023
The 2023 season, however, presented significant challenges for Ngakoue. While playing for the Bears, he suffered a broken ankle that sidelined him for the final four games of the season. This injury contributed to a career-low four sacks for the year, an uncharacteristic dip in performance for the seasoned veteran.
Despite these setbacks, Ngakoue's return to the Ravens is seen as a strategic boon for the team. The Ravens have struggled in the early part of the 2024 season, starting with a 1-2 record. Their pass rush, a crucial component of defensive success, has been less than stellar. The team has logged 10 sacks, ranking ninth in the league, but their overall quarterback pressure rate of 27.1% situates them as the fourth worst in the NFL as they enter Week 3.
Boosting the Ravens' Defense
Ngakoue's familiarity with the Ravens’ defensive schemes and organizational culture should facilitate a smooth transition and quick assimilation back into the team. His return is anticipated to not only bolster the Ravens' pass-rushing capabilities but also provide a veteran presence that can mentor younger players and enhance the overall defensive unit’s cohesion.
As the Ravens look to rebound from their slow start, the addition of Ngakoue injects both experience and talent into their defensive lineup. His ability to pressure the quarterback and disrupt offensive plays will be crucial as the team aims to climb the standings and secure a playoff berth.
The former Jaguar, Viking, Raider, Colt, and Bear now finds himself back in Baltimore, ready to make an impact and help guide the Ravens to greater defensive performance in the 2024 season. With pivotal games on the horizon, all eyes will be on Ngakoue and his ability to reignite the Ravens' pass rush.