Offseason primer for the Baltimore Ravens in 2025: Trying to figure out how to get Lamar Jackson to a Super Bowl

The 2024 season for the Baltimore Ravens ended with another postseason appearance, but yet another premature exit—leaving the question: What will it take for Lamar Jackson and the Ravens to finally break through to a Super Bowl?

Jackson’s electrifying playmaking ability has always kept the Ravens competitive, but despite being one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the NFL, he’s been unable to carry the Ravens to the league’s ultimate prize. After two MVP-caliber seasons (2019 and 2023), questions have begun to swirl about the best approach to construct a team that maximizes Jackson’s immense talent and gives him the best chance at postseason success. The Ravens are an organization built on defense and a run-heavy offense, but it’s time for a change—a shift in offensive philosophy and a commitment to surrounding Jackson with the pieces necessary to finally capture that elusive championship.

As the 2025 offseason approaches, the Ravens’ front office, led by General Manager Eric DeCosta and Head Coach John Harbaugh, faces a crucial set of decisions. This offseason must not only address the team’s immediate needs but also be tailored to Lamar Jackson’s strengths, helping the Ravens’ offense evolve while bolstering the defense to make a Super Bowl run.

Let’s take a closer look at what needs to happen during this offseason to give Lamar Jackson the tools and support he needs to make a run at the Super Bowl.

The Lamar Jackson Factor: What Makes Him Special?

Lamar Jackson is unique. He is not just a dual-threat quarterback—he is arguably the most dangerous dual-threat quarterback the league has ever seen. His rare combination of arm strength, accuracy, and elite mobility allows him to be a nightmare for defenses. When he’s at his best, Jackson can take over games with his legs or arm, making any lead seem tenuous. His 2019 MVP campaign remains one of the greatest seasons ever for a quarterback in NFL history, and his performance in 2023 reaffirmed his status as a top-five quarterback in the league.

However, while Jackson’s ability to win games with his legs has given the Ravens a distinct advantage, it has also limited the offense’s evolution. Baltimore’s offensive system, built heavily on the run and the read-option, has been extremely effective in the regular season but has faced challenges in the postseason, where passing attacks become more important, and defenses tighten up. The Ravens’ offense is often too predictable, lacking the explosive passing game needed to make deep playoff runs.

As Jackson enters his prime, it’s time for Baltimore to craft a system that gets the most out of his arm and legs, and they need to make a concerted effort to build a more modern, diversified offense. This offseason must be focused on that evolution.

Offensive Evolution: Building Around Lamar Jackson

1. The Passing Game: A New Offensive Identity

The Ravens have always been a run-first offense, and there’s no reason to abandon the ground game entirely. The Ravens’ offensive line is still one of the most physical units in the NFL, and J.K. Dobbins provides a solid foundation in the backfield. However, to go from good to great, Baltimore needs to modernize its offensive attack to support Jackson’s growth as a passer.

In 2023, Lamar Jackson showed marked improvement as a passer, especially on deep throws. His increased accuracy, paired with an improved understanding of defensive coverages, allowed him to make more high-leverage throws in critical moments. But the Ravens still lack the type of aerial attack that most championship contenders boast.

The key to unlocking Jackson’s full potential is surrounding him with elite receiving talent and ensuring that the play calling evolves to match the passing game. Over the years, the Ravens have relied heavily on Mark Andrews, their star tight end, but have struggled to develop reliable wide receivers who can consistently stretch the field and win one-on-one matchups. That needs to change.

Wide Receiver Upgrade: An Elite Target for Lamar Jackson

One of the most pressing needs for the Ravens is to upgrade their receiving corps. Outside of Andrews, the Ravens have struggled to find a true No. 1 wide receiver who can consistently win in critical situations. Rashod Bateman, a former first-round pick, has flashed potential but has been plagued by injuries. Other receivers like Odell Beckham Jr. and Zay Flowers have had moments, but neither has proven to be a dominant force on the perimeter.

In the 2025 offseason, the Ravens need to go all-in on adding a high-caliber wide receiver—preferably a true No. 1 option who can stretch the field vertically and create separation. A player like Tee Higgins from the Cincinnati Bengals or Chris Godwin from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers would be ideal targets. Both are tall, physical receivers who can win contested catches and create mismatches against opposing cornerbacks. Adding a weapon like this will give Jackson the reliable, explosive receiving threat he’s been missing and could change the entire complexion of the Ravens’ offense.

In addition to a No. 1 receiver, the Ravens must continue to develop Zay Flowers into a legitimate threat. Flowers, a dynamic and speedy receiver, can thrive in a role that leverages his quickness in the open field and his ability to break big plays. The Ravens should also consider adding depth at wide receiver through the draft or free agency.

Modernizing the Offense: The Return of the West Coast Scheme

Another way to optimize Jackson’s ability to lead the offense is by incorporating elements of the West Coast offense. This scheme relies on quick, precise passing that utilizes timing and precision, making it easier for quarterbacks to find open receivers, especially when throwing short-to-intermediate routes. For Jackson, this would mean fewer long dropbacks and more quick, decisive throws to complement his deep-ball accuracy. Utilizing short crossing routes, slants, and quick outs would also give Jackson the opportunity to spread the ball around and keep defenses off balance.

Additionally, this offense would allow Jackson to be more in rhythm with his passing game early in drives. Quick passes can open up the defense and create more opportunities for the Ravens to exploit defenses on later downs. The Ravens could also benefit from using motion and misdirection, two key elements of a modern offense that can create confusion for defenses, especially in the red zone.

2. Offensive Line: Protecting Lamar Jackson

For Lamar Jackson to truly excel as a passer, the offensive line must protect him consistently. While the Ravens have invested in their offensive line over the past few seasons, they still face challenges in pass protection, especially in high-pressure situations. Jackson’s mobility has often masked the line’s deficiencies, but he can only do so much on his own.

The Ravens need to prioritize offensive line upgrades in free agency or the draft. Adding another anchor on the interior of the line, or even bringing in a veteran tackle, would go a long way toward improving pass protection. If Jackson is given a clean pocket, his ability to read the field and deliver accurate throws will improve, and his dynamic running ability will have even more room to thrive.

3. Run Game: Sticking to What Works

Though Jackson’s arm and passing game need to improve, the Ravens’ run game is still one of the league’s most potent weapons. Behind a solid offensive line and a workhorse back like J.K. Dobbins, the Ravens should remain committed to a balanced attack. Utilizing Jackson’s legs in the read-option and RPO (run-pass option) game should continue to be a staple, as it forces defenses to play on their heels.

The Ravens should also look for depth at running back in the draft or free agency. While Dobbins is the primary ball carrier, having a reliable backup to step in when needed could help reduce the wear-and-tear on the starting back, keeping him fresh throughout the season and into the playoffs.

Defense: Championship-Level Defense to Complement Jackson

While the Ravens’ offensive philosophy will undergo transformation, their defense is already championship-caliber. Baltimore’s defense has consistently ranked among the league’s best over the years, and 2024 was no different. The Ravens excel at stopping the run, rushing the passer, and covering in the secondary. However, to push themselves over the top, they must add more playmakers to ensure they can hold up in the highest-pressure moments.

1. Secondary Depth

The secondary has been a strength for Baltimore, with Marlon Humphrey and Marcus Williams being stalwarts. But the Ravens should look to improve their cornerback depth and safety position. Jalyn Armour-Davis showed flashes of potential in 2024, but the Ravens need more consistency and depth to avoid a drop-off in coverage when injuries occur. A player like J.C. Jackson (if available) could help solidify the secondary and give Baltimore another shutdown corner.

2. Pass Rush: Bolstering the Edge

While Roquan Smith has been the standout linebacker, Baltimore could use more pressure off the edge. The Ravens could look for an edge rusher in the draft or through free agency, as a dominant pass rusher could take pressure off the secondary and give the defense more opportunities to get off the field.

 The Road to the Super Bowl

For the Baltimore Ravens to finally win a Super Bowl with Lamar Jackson, they need to **evolve

**—offensively and defensively. That evolution starts with modernizing the passing attack, adding elite weapons around Jackson, and keeping the offensive line intact. Additionally, the defense needs to continue performing at a high level while adding depth in critical positions.

The 2025 offseason will be pivotal in determining whether Jackson can finally reach the Super Bowl. The pieces are there, but the front office must act decisively to ensure the Ravens are equipped to meet the challenge of competing against the NFL’s elite teams. The time for change is now—Lamar Jackson’s championship window is open, and Baltimore has the chance to build a team around him that could lead them to the promised land.