The Baltimore Ravens have long been known for their tough, physical style of defense. But heading into the 2025 NFL season, the Ravens are sharpening their focus with one clear objective: turnovers. Defensive coordinator Zach Orr and his unit are placing a premium on takeaways, aiming to make them the defining feature of Baltimore’s defensive identity.
Last season, the Ravens finished in the middle of the pack in total takeaways, a stat that didn’t sit well with the defensive staff. While the team’s pass rush and red zone defense were among the league’s best, the lack of consistent turnovers limited their ability to swing momentum and seal close games.
“We want the ball — plain and simple,” said Orr during minicamp. “This defense is built on speed, physicality, and smarts. Now we want to turn those traits into takeaways and change games.”
To help achieve that goal, Baltimore has brought in veteran cornerback Jaire Alexander on a one-year deal, adding elite coverage skills and ball-hawking instincts to a secondary that also features Marlon Humphrey and Kyle Hamilton. At linebacker, Roquan Smith leads a unit focused on stripping the football and baiting quarterbacks into mistakes.
The coaching staff has emphasized ball drills in practice, from tip drills to forced-fumble scenarios. Every rep ends with someone going after the ball, reinforcing the “turnover or bust” mentality.
With a high-powered AFC loaded with offensive firepower, the Ravens know game-changing plays will be crucial to staying competitive. If they can turn takeaways into a weekly habit, Baltimore could transform from a top-tier defense into a game-breaking force.
Expect the Ravens to be aggressive, opportunistic — and hungry for the football in 2025.
