Baltimore Ravens 2025 offseason primer: Looking for how to get Lamar Jackson to a Super Bowl

The Baltimore Ravens have built their identity around one of the most electrifying quarterbacks in the NFL, Lamar Jackson. With Jackson’s unique skill set, the Ravens have managed to remain competitive in the AFC, regularly contending for playoff spots. However, despite individual success, the team has not been able to reach the pinnacle of the NFL: the Super Bowl. The question now for the Ravens is how to elevate their roster in 2025 to make a legitimate run at a championship with Jackson leading the charge.

As the 2025 offseason approaches, Baltimore finds itself in a pivotal moment. General Manager Eric DeCosta and head coach John Harbaugh will need to make critical decisions regarding the team’s roster, coaching staff, and long-term strategy. With the ultimate goal of getting Lamar Jackson to a Super Bowl, the Ravens must carefully evaluate their current roster, identify key areas for improvement, and execute a successful offseason plan.

Offensive Improvements: Building Around Lamar Jackson

Lamar Jackson is one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the NFL, with the ability to change a game in an instant. He is known for his speed, agility, and playmaking ability both in the air and on the ground. However, Jackson has also been hindered by the lack of consistent offensive weapons and a supporting cast that can take full advantage of his skills.

In 2025, the Ravens will need to focus on building a more balanced offense that can complement Jackson’s unique skill set. This starts with improving the offensive line, acquiring more weapons in the passing game, and continuing to develop the running game.

1. Offensive Line: Protection and Consistency

A key factor in Lamar Jackson’s ability to succeed in Baltimore is the offensive line’s protection. Jackson’s mobility allows him to evade pressure and make plays on the move, but he still needs a solid foundation in the trenches. Over the past few seasons, the Ravens’ offensive line has been inconsistent, particularly in pass protection. While the running game has been effective, Jackson’s passing game has occasionally been compromised by poor offensive line play.

The 2025 offseason should see the Ravens invest in solidifying their offensive line to keep Jackson upright. There is potential for improvements in both the interior and at tackle. A strong pass protector on the left side will ensure Jackson has the time to make plays from the pocket when needed. The Ravens could target a top-tier offensive tackle in the draft or through free agency, especially one who can excel in both run blocking and pass protection. Upgrading the interior offensive line, particularly at guard, would also provide the necessary support for Jackson to operate more fluidly in both the run and pass game.

Additionally, bringing in depth to the offensive line through the draft or free agency would help mitigate the injury issues that have plagued the unit in recent years.

2. Wide Receiver: Adding Playmakers on the Outside

The Ravens’ passing game has been somewhat limited due to a lack of high-end receiving talent. While Mark Andrews is one of the best tight ends in the league, and Rashod Bateman shows promise, Jackson needs more reliable options at wide receiver. In particular, the team lacks a true No. 1 receiver that can consistently win one-on-one matchups and stretch the field.

To get Lamar Jackson to a Super Bowl, the Ravens need to find a reliable playmaker to help diversify their offense and give Jackson more weapons in the passing game. This could come in the form of acquiring a proven wide receiver in free agency or making a big splash in the draft. Adding a tall, physical receiver with the ability to stretch the field and create separation would provide Jackson with a much-needed weapon on the outside. This player would be crucial in opening up the middle of the field for Andrews while also providing a downfield threat to keep opposing defenses honest.

In addition to signing or drafting a wide receiver, the Ravens should also focus on strengthening the depth of the receiving corps. A versatile, reliable slot receiver and another deep threat would allow Jackson to distribute the ball efficiently to a variety of targets, making the offense more unpredictable and harder to defend.

3. Running Back Depth: Maintaining the Ground Attack

The Ravens’ success on offense has largely been due to their dominant running game. Lamar Jackson, coupled with a stable of talented running backs, has made the Ravens one of the most dangerous rushing attacks in the league. In 2025, the Ravens will need to continue emphasizing the running game, but they must also add depth to the backfield to prevent over-reliance on Jackson’s legs.

J.K. Dobbins has shown flashes of brilliance as the lead back, but he has struggled with injuries. The Ravens should look to add a reliable backup running back to complement Dobbins and provide another option in the backfield. A change-of-pace back with a different skill set could provide Jackson with more options in the ground game. The Ravens could target a running back in the mid-to-late rounds of the draft or look to acquire one in free agency who can contribute immediately.

Defensive Rebuild: Keeping the Pressure on Opponents

While the offense is an area of focus for the Ravens, their defense remains one of the top units in the NFL. However, to make a Super Bowl run in 2025, the defense will need to remain elite while also adding key pieces to ensure it continues to be one of the league’s best.

1. Edge Rusher: Adding a Pass-Rushing Threat

One of the most significant areas of need for the Ravens’ defense is at the edge rusher position. While they have solid talent in players like Odafe Oweh, the Ravens need a consistent pass-rushing presence to complement their other defensive playmakers. A dominant edge rusher would allow the Ravens to put more pressure on opposing quarterbacks, which would make life easier for their secondary.

The Ravens could look to the 2025 draft for a top-tier edge rusher, targeting someone who can immediately come in and make an impact. With an aggressive defense that relies on getting to the quarterback, adding another dynamic pass rusher would help make the Ravens’ defense one of the most feared in the league.

2. Secondary Depth: Addressing Cornerback and Safety Depth

The Ravens’ secondary is strong, but depth has been an issue in recent seasons. Marlon Humphrey is an elite cornerback, and safety Chuck Clark has been a key piece of the defense. However, they need more depth and competition at both cornerback and safety to keep the defense solid throughout the season.

In 2025, the Ravens could address this need by adding a cornerback in the draft, preferably someone with the ability to develop into a starting role in the future. They could also target a veteran safety or cornerback in free agency to provide depth and leadership to the secondary.

Special Teams: Enhancing the Third Phase of the Game

The Ravens’ special teams have been a consistent strength over the years, but in order to make a Super Bowl run, the team will need to make sure they stay elite in this phase of the game. The Ravens should evaluate their kicker, punter, and return units to ensure they are in top form entering the 2025 season. Special teams play a crucial role in playoff games, and the Ravens will want to make sure they don’t overlook this part of their roster.

Coaching and Leadership: Maintaining Consistency

John Harbaugh is one of the most respected head coaches in the NFL, and his leadership has been instrumental in keeping the Ravens competitive year after year. His ability to manage the team through adversity and maintain a championship-level culture is crucial in guiding the Ravens toward a Super Bowl.

Eric DeCosta, the general manager, has also done a great job of finding talent through the draft and free agency. His ability to navigate the salary cap and add impactful players will be key to getting Jackson the help he needs to reach the Super Bowl.