Roquan Smith & Ravens DC Zach Orr will need an effective QB spy scheme in 2024

Baltimore Ravens defensive coordinator Zach Orr isn’t staffed with the same personnel his predecessor, Mike MacDonald, had last season. Yet, Orr still has all-pro inside linebacker Roquan Smith, and the mastermind needed to recalibrate his team after a historic defensive showing in 2024.

Orr’s understanding of the linebacker position makes him privy to the mindset of the opposing quarterback. However, with an NFL schedule full of mobile quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes, Jalen Hurts, Russell Wilson, Josh Allen, and C.J. Stroud, Orr may need to deploy a quarterback spy or use the blitz more heavily to neutralize these dual-threat quarterbacks.

Sitting in Cover 3 and Cover 2 zone won’t be nearly as effective as it used to be, given that NFL quarterbacks can now extend plays with their legs. That is if the defense can’t get home with the front four.

Defensive tackle Justin Madubuike is likely to see more double teams in 2024, so Orr will need to locate and commit to a go-to blitz guy from the second level of the defense. This is where rookie defensive end Issac Adisa or even signee safety Eddie Jackson may deploy.

Orr will want to end opponents’ offensive drives as quickly and efficiently as possible to keep his defense rested and tenacious. His success will also give quarterback Lamar Jackson and the Ravens offense more time of possession to work on extending leads and/or dictating the pace of the game.