The Baltimore Ravens are charging into the 2025-26 season with high expectations and zero interest in moral victories. They’ve got the talent, the leadership, and a serious score to settle after falling short in the playoffs again last year.
While the AFC is stacked, Baltimore checks nearly every box you’d want in a contender. From a superstar QB to a battle-tested coaching staff, here are 15 reasons the Ravens are built to be the best team in the AFC this season.
15. Lamar Jackson Is Still That Guy
Lamar Jackson remains one of the most dangerous quarterbacks in football, capable of torching defenses with both his legs and arm. He’s been here, done that, and is still very much in his prime.
14. The Offense Is Absolutely Stacked
Between DeAndre Hopkins, Zay Flowers, Mark Andrews, and Derrick Henry, there’s no shortage of weapons in Baltimore. This group can beat you short, deep, and everywhere in between.
13. The Defense Is Loaded With Playmakers
Baltimore’s defense is never dull, and this year’s version is fast, physical, and versatile. Whether it’s Kyle Hamilton flying around or Roquan Smith making noise in the middle, they’ve got dudes everywhere.
12. They Added Talent Without Losing Their Core
Many teams get gutted in the offseason, but not the Ravens. They kept their key pieces and made smart, targeted upgrades.
11. John Harbaugh Is One of the Best in the Business
With Harbaugh on the sideline, a steady hand guides the ship. He’s been through every kind of season imaginable and always finds a way to keep this team relevant.
10. They Can Win Ugly or Pretty
Some games are shootouts, others are slogs, and Baltimore is comfortable in both. That kind of flexibility makes them dangerous in any setting.
9. They’ve Proven They Can Beat Elite Teams
The Ravens aren’t just bullies against bad teams—they’ve gone toe-to-toe with the NFL’s best. And with another demanding schedule ahead, they’ll have even more chances to flex.
8. The AFC North Is There for the Taking
Cincinnati, Cleveland, and Pittsburgh each have question marks, especially at quarterback. Baltimore is the most stable, complete team in the division.
7. The Front Office Doesn’t Miss
Eric DeCosta and company rarely make splashy moves to make them, but when they do, they usually work out. This is one of the smartest front offices in the game.
6. The Roster Is Built for the Long Haul
Injuries happen, but Baltimore is better equipped than most to handle them. Their depth is no joke, and they have capable backups almost everywhere.
5. Their Physicality Wears Teams Down
Few teams play a more bruising brand of football than Baltimore. By the fourth quarter, opponents usually gasp for air and look for the bus.
4. They Dominate Time of Possession
This team controls the clock and limits the other team’s chances. That’s a winning formula in tight playoff games.
3. Vegas and the Nerds Agree
![Patriots receiver DeVante Parker is denied a 2nd quarter completion by a double team defense from Baltimore's Marcus Williams and Brandon Stephens. No interference call on the play. [The Providence Journal / Kris Craig]](https://thequickreport.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Untitled-design-2025-06-05T191739.722-1024x658.png)
Whether it’s betting odds or advanced analytics, the Ravens are getting a lot of love. The models aren’t always right, but it’s usually a good sign when they agree with your eyes.
Read More: Ravens Lock In Derrick Henry With Historic Two-Year Extension
2. They’ve Got a Chip on Their Shoulder
Last season didn’t end the way they wanted, and they know it. That kind of hunger can fuel a remarkable run.
1. It’s Just Their Time
Sometimes the stars align, and everything clicks. Baltimore has been building toward this moment, and it feels like 2025-26 could finally be the year they break through.
Read More: 10 Reasons Why the Kansas City Chiefs Are Now America’s Team
