In an effort to enhance their pass rush, the Baltimore Ravens are welcoming back a familiar face, veteran edge rusher Yannick Ngakoue, for their 2024 squad. This strategic move reunites Ngakoue with the team four years after his brief but impactful first stint, following a midseason trade from the Minnesota Vikings during the 2020 season.
Ngakoue's NFL journey has been a whirlwind, spanning nine years and six teams. Originally drafted in the third round by the Jacksonville Jaguars, he quickly established himself as a formidable force on the defensive line. From 2016 to 2019, Ngakoue was a key player for the Jaguars, amassing impressive stats that elevated his reputation league-wide.
The year 2020 was a busy one for Ngakoue, who found himself donning jerseys for both the Vikings and the Ravens. He then continued his journey with the Las Vegas Raiders in 2021, the Indianapolis Colts in 2022, and the Chicago Bears in 2023. Despite the constant change, Ngakoue consistently delivered solid performances, exemplified by his achievement of totaling at least eight sacks in each of his first seven NFL seasons.
During his initial stint with the Ravens in 2020, Ngakoue played nine games, wherein he recorded three sacks and 26 quarterback pressures. These numbers underscored his ability to make an immediate impact, something the Ravens are undoubtedly hoping to replicate this season. With a career total of 69 sacks, Ngakoue is tied with Joey Bosa for the ninth most in the NFL since he entered the league, a testament to his enduring prowess on the field.
However, 2023 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. Consequently, he finished the year with a career-low four sacks. This injury setback has likely fueled Ngakoue’s determination to return to peak performance, offering the Ravens a potent weapon as they seek to improve their defensive stats.
The Ravens enter Week 3 of the 2024 season with a 1-2 record, a somewhat shaky start that highlights the urgency for defensive reinforcements. Currently, the team has logged 10 sacks, ranking ninth in the league. However, their overall quarterback pressure rate of 27.1% is the fourth worst in the NFL, demonstrating a critical area needing improvement. Ngakoue's return is expected to bolster these statistics, leveraging his experience and familiarity with the Ravens’ defensive schemes and organizational culture for a smoother transition and quicker impact.
The Ravens' decision to bring back Ngakoue underscores a strategic approach to address their defensive deficiencies. His proven track record, combined with a deep understanding of the team’s dynamics, positions Ngakoue as a vital asset in their quest to climb the league ranks. As the Ravens look to turn their season around, the return of a seasoned edge rusher like Ngakoue offers a beacon of hope for fortified defensive strength and improved game outcomes.