Lamar Jackson faces increased scrutiny as the Ravens make significant offseason moves, including signing Trey Hendrickson and drafting Olaivavega Ioane. However, the departure of key players raises questions about the team's offensive depth.
Is Lamar Jackson finally out of Ravens excuses in 2026? originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Baltimore Ravens remain a fascinating watch as we head toward the offseason program after free agency and the NFL Draft saw the franchise make some good moves.
The signing of Trey Hendrickson was a big one, while the drafting of offensive linemanĀ Olaivavega Ioane was seen as a home run.
But is that enough? Some would argue no after Isaiah Likely and Charlie Kolar both left in free agency, leaving just Mark Andrews as a top tight end target.
For CBS Sports' Bryan DeArdo, one reason fans should be optimistic about the Ravens in 2026 is the help Lamar got during the offseason.
āAfter acquiring the free-agent pass rusher (Trey Hendrickson), the Ravens largely used the draft to enhance the situation surrounding Jackson, who hasn't always been flanked by the best supporting cast," DeArdo wrote.
āBaltimore hit a home run when they drafted Olaivavega Ioane, who was the first guard selected in the draft. The Ravens then used three of their next four picks on pass-catchers who should be able to make an immediate impact in 2026. Elijah Sarratt, the second wideout that Baltimore selected in the draft, led the entire FBS with 15 touchdown receptions in 2025.ā
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Well, it depends on how you look at it.
On one side, Lamar is in his prime, and he should be the one who can help shield some of the offensive deficiencies.
On the other hand, he lost Tyler Linderbaum, a three-time Pro Bowl center, and he didn't get replaced. He also lost Likely and Kolar, with Lamar's top weapons now just Zay Flowers and an aging Mark Andrews.
Yes, Derrick Henry will play a huge role once again, but as far as passing options, it does look a little thin. Again, the Ravens' rookies could be key contributors in 2026.
Still, all eyes will be on No. 8 to see if he can be the one to deliver the success that the franchise has been starved of for years.
The Ravens signed Trey Hendrickson and drafted offensive lineman Olaivavega Ioane.
Their departures leave Mark Andrews as the only top tight end target, raising concerns about the team's offensive options.
Yes, with significant roster changes, Jackson is expected to perform without the previous excuses for underperformance.
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