In a league where every detail counts and championships are often decided by the smallest of margins, the Baltimore Ravens have quietly positioned themselves as one of the NFL’s most complete teams heading into the 2025 season. Despite early-season setbacks and some uncharacteristic growing pains, the Ravens have been recognized as the league’s second-most complete team — a testament to their roster construction, coaching, and organizational depth.

The ranking, released recently by a prominent analytics site, comes as a surprise to some but is well-deserved given Baltimore’s balance across offense, defense, and special teams. However, the phrase “Late for Work” aptly captures the team’s tendency to start slow before hitting their stride — a narrative that has followed the Ravens in recent years.

This article delves into why the Ravens earned this recognition, how they overcame early-season challenges, and what this means for their championship aspirations.

Before breaking down the Ravens’ strengths and weaknesses, it’s important to understand the criteria that led to their designation as the second-most complete team.

The analytics report assessed NFL teams across multiple dimensions including:

• Offensive efficiency (yardage, scoring, third-down conversions)
• Defensive performance (yards allowed, turnovers forced, red zone defense)
• Special teams impact (kickoff returns, field goal accuracy, coverage units)
• Depth and roster flexibility
• Coaching and in-game adjustments

Baltimore scored highly in nearly every category, second only to the Kansas City Chiefs, who were ranked first. The Ravens’ overall team grade was a composite of offensive and defensive stats balanced against special teams contributions and the intangible factors like leadership and adaptability.

The phrase “Late for Work” isn’t just a catchy headline — it accurately reflects Baltimore’s challenges in starting seasons strongly. The Ravens have struggled out of the gate for several years, often trailing behind the curve in their division before rallying late.

In the 2024 season, the Ravens stumbled through their first five games, going 2-3 amid injuries, inconsistent quarterback play, and defensive lapses. Fans and analysts questioned whether the team had what it takes to compete with division rivals like the Cincinnati Bengals and Pittsburgh Steelers.

However, once Baltimore overcame these early hurdles, they shifted gears, posting a 7-2 record in the remaining nine games and ultimately securing a playoff spot.

Under head coach John Harbaugh and offensive coordinator Todd Monken, the Ravens have built a balanced offensive attack. Quarterback Lamar Jackson, despite occasional inconsistency, remains a dual-threat weapon capable of changing games with his arm and legs.

The Ravens feature a versatile running game, led by Javonte Williams and rookie sensation Malik Davis, complemented by a diverse receiving corps including Rashod Bateman and Mark Andrews. Their ability to sustain drives, convert on third downs, and dominate time of possession creates stability.

Baltimore ranked top five in rushing yards per game and top ten in total offense in the previous season, underscoring their offensive completeness.

Baltimore’s defense is often the backbone of the team’s success. Coordinated by Mike Macdonald, the defense ranks among the league’s best in several key categories:

• Run Defense: The Ravens consistently hold opponents to under 100 rushing yards per game.
• Pass Rush: Led by Calais Campbell and Odafe Oweh, the pass rush applies relentless pressure.
• Turnovers: The Ravens force an average of 2.1 turnovers per game, ranking third in the NFL.

The defense’s ability to perform in high-leverage moments — especially in the red zone and late-game situations — is a key reason the team is so highly regarded.

Often overlooked, Baltimore’s special teams units provide a hidden advantage. Kicker Justin Tucker, arguably the best in NFL history, boasts unmatched accuracy and range, giving the Ravens confidence in field goal situations.

Return specialist Devin Duvernay and punter Sam Koch add field position advantages. Coverage units have been aggressive, limiting opponents’ return yards and generating momentum swings.

This consistent special teams excellence complements the offensive and defensive balance.

One of Baltimore’s greatest strengths is roster depth. Injuries are inevitable in the NFL, but the Ravens’ ability to plug in capable backups without a severe drop-off is crucial.

Players like second-year linebacker Malik Harrison and safety Kyle Hamilton provide young, talented backups who can step into starting roles if necessary. This depth extends to offensive linemen, wide receivers, and defensive linemen, allowing the coaching staff to adapt personnel packages without sacrificing performance.

John Harbaugh remains one of the NFL’s most respected coaches, known for his adaptability and player management. His leadership, combined with savvy coordinators like Monken and Macdonald, ensures the team remains competitive even when facing adversity.

The Ravens excel in in-game adjustments, clock management, and situational football — often making the right calls at critical moments. This strategic acumen is a major factor in their “completeness.”

While being the second-most complete team is a positive indicator, the Ravens must address their early-season sluggishness to truly contend for the Super Bowl.

Starting slow has led to difficult playoff seeding and more challenging paths to the championship. Overcoming early mistakes and health issues will be critical in 2025.

Lamar Jackson’s health and consistency remain pivotal. The Ravens need him operating at MVP levels from Week 1 to avoid another slow start.

Additionally, young players like Malik Davis on offense and rookie draft picks on defense will be expected to step up sooner rather than later.

• Lamar Jackson (QB): Dual-threat quarterback capable of explosive plays on the ground and through the air.
• Calais Campbell (DE): Veteran leader anchoring the defensive front with relentless pressure.
• Mark Andrews (TE): Reliable receiving target and blocker, a key cog in the passing game.
• Kyle Hamilton (S): Defensive playmaker, combining coverage skills with physical tackling.
• Justin Tucker (K): The NFL’s most reliable kicker, consistently delivering in clutch moments.

Each of these players exemplifies the balance and depth that earns Baltimore the “most complete” recognition.

Despite the high ranking, the Ravens cannot rest on their laurels. The NFL is a league of parity, and other teams are constantly evolving.

Baltimore’s division rivals are improving, and the playoffs demand peak performance. Avoiding injury, maintaining focus, and executing consistently will be vital.

Improving early-season preparation, game planning, and minimizing costly turnovers early on are key goals.

Ravens fans should expect a team that, while occasionally slow to start, will be battle-tested and well-rounded come playoff time. The second-most complete ranking suggests Baltimore has all the ingredients for success:

• A dynamic offense led by Lamar Jackson’s improvisational brilliance.
• A punishing defense that can stifle both the run and pass.
• Special teams that flip field position and secure points.
• Depth that mitigates the impact of injuries.
• Coaches who can adapt and strategize on the fly.

If the Ravens can put it all together from the start, their Super Bowl window remains very much open.

In a league where elite teams are defined not just by star power but by balance and completeness, the Baltimore Ravens have earned their place near the top. Ranked as the second-most complete team in the NFL, Baltimore possesses the personnel, coaching, and depth to compete at the highest level.

Though the “Late for Work” label highlights their habit of slow starts, it also underscores their resilience and ability to improve over time. If they can harness their full potential early, the Ravens are poised to make a deep playoff run.

With a mix of veteran leadership and young talent, the Ravens represent a model franchise — one that exemplifies how completeness across all facets of the game can be the foundation of sustained success.

As the 2025 season unfolds, the NFL world will be watching Baltimore closely, anticipating when the Ravens will shake off their late arrivals and dominate from the opening whistle.