From Super Bowl Dreams to Playoff Longshots: What Happened to the Ravens?
Remember when the Baltimore Ravens were everyone's pick to win it all? Fast forward to now, and they're clinging to a playoff hope thinner than a deflated football. With just two games left, their chances sit at a dismal under 10% (https://x.com/jamisonhensley/status/2003140278958641522?s=20). Talk about a season gone sideways.
This is a team that, under John Harbaugh, has only had one losing season in the past 18 years. Now, they're staring down the barrel of their second in three seasons. ESPN's Dan Orlovsky didn't mince words, calling them "the most disappointing team in the NFL this season." He went on to say, "This team, unequivocally, was the most talented roster in the AFC, and, rightfully so, the AFC Super Bowl pick" (https://x.com/GetUpESPN/status/2003115523089826047?s=20). But here's where it gets controversial: The defending AFC champion Kansas City Chiefs are already out, yet the Ravens, despite their struggles, are still mathematically alive. Does that make Orlovsky's assessment a bit harsh?
Their path to the playoffs is a narrow one. They need to win in Green Bay, hope the Steelers lose in Cleveland, and then beat those same Steelers in the season finale. Even if they pull off this improbable feat, The Baltimore Banner’s Childs Walker (https://www.thebanner.com/sports/ravens-nfl/ravens-things-we-learned-patriots-loss-C4GGW4YWIZGMBCBIJ5XZREMJFY/) isn't convinced they have the firepower for a deep run. He points out their lack of offensive and defensive efficiency, their tendency to beat weaker teams, and the overall mediocrity that contrasts sharply with last season's powerhouse performance.
NFL.com’s Jeffri Chadiha (https://www.nfl.com/news/2025-nfl-playoff-hunt-buying-and-selling-18-potential-super-bowl-contenders), who also picked the Ravens to win it all preseason, echoes this sentiment. He highlights their 1-5 start and the constant health issues plaguing Lamar Jackson as major factors in their downfall. "It's time to admit this just wasn't the Ravens' year," he wrote.
Coach Harbaugh, ever the optimist, insists they'll keep fighting. "We've been in tough circumstances all year," he said after the Patriots loss. "It's been a grind, for sure. And we've come out and fought every single game."
And this is the part most people miss: While Jackson's injuries have undoubtedly played a role, Sports Illustrated’s Matt Verderame (https://www.si.com/nfl/lamar-jackson-era-baltimore-ravens-glorious-unfulfilling) raises a more concerning point. He argues that Jackson, turning 29 next month, is entering a new phase of his career. His reliance on his electrifying running ability may need to shift towards a more pocket-passing focused game. This season, his rushing yards are at a career low, and his recent back injury adds to a growing list of lower-body ailments.
But let's not write Jackson off just yet. He's still an elite quarterback with a strong arm. He had a phenomenal 2024 season, ranking second in career passer rating behind Aaron Rodgers. Before his injuries this season, he was playing at a high level.
One bright spot for the Ravens has been their 2025 draft class. Several rookies have made significant contributions, making it tough to pick a standout. ESPN’s Jamison Hensley (https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/47389978/nfl-week-17-power-rankings-poll-32-teams-2025-best-rookies) ultimately chose first-round safety Malaki Starks, praising his maturity and awareness. However, edge rusher Mike Green, inside linebacker Teddye Buchanan, kicker Tyler Loop, and return specialist LaJohntay Wester have all been impactful.
So, what do you think? Is Orlovsky right about the Ravens being the biggest disappointment? Can Jackson adapt his game and lead them back to contention? Let us know in the comments!
