The Baltimore Ravens face a season of transformation with Trenton Simpson and challenges following Patrick Queen’s departure from the Pittsburgh Steelers. The move has stirred up significant discourse, especially considering Queen’s impressive record with the Ravens, which includes 250 tackles, 8.5 sacks, and numerous game-changing plays over two seasons. This exit not only signifies a strategic loss but also sets the stage for a thrilling rivalry within the AFC North.
However, amidst the uncertainty, Roquan Smith, Baltimore’s All-Pro linebacker, remains optimistic about the team’s prospects. He has thrown his support behind Trenton Simpson, a promising young talent, to fill the void left by Queen. According to Smith, Simpson possesses “all the potential in the world,” a sentiment that positions him as a key player to watch in the upcoming NFL season.
Trenton Simpson: Poised for Breakout Success
Trenton Simpson, who was picked in the third round just last year, stands on the precipice of a major career opportunity. Despite the presence of other notable second-year linebackers like Jack Campbell, Drew Sanders, and Daiyan Henley, Simpson is uniquely positioned to excel thanks to his integration into a Ravens defense that was the most stingy in the league last year, allowing a mere 16.5 points per game.
Smith’s confidence in Simpson is not unfounded. In the 2023 regular-season finale, Simpson showcased his capabilities vividly. With the starters resting, he seized the opportunity, racking up seven tackles, two of which were for a loss, and a sack. This performance, albeit in a single game, highlighted his readiness and adaptability, crucial traits for his anticipated regular role alongside Smith.
“Putting that on the field week in and week out and just trusting his ability” are the keys, Smith noted. He believes that with consistent play, Simpson could very well become “the best second-year linebacker in the league.”
Such high praise from a seasoned teammate not only boosts Simpson’s profile but also sets high expectations for his development and impact.
Ravens’ Roquan Smith Excited About Patrick Queen’s Possible Replacement: ‘All The Potential In The World’ https://t.co/V4IsrbWEbh pic.twitter.com/r6Jk4eIdZc
— Kyle Beagle (@kylebeagle) April 18, 2024
The Road Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities
As the Ravens continue their preparations for the new season, the focus is on more than just physical readiness; it involves adjusting to the emotional dynamics of losing a teammate like Queen. Smith’s approach is pragmatic and heartfelt, expressing both a sentimental farewell to the Queen and a fierce readiness for the upcoming duels.
“Life happens, and he’s somewhere else right now. I got to tear his picture down in the linebacker room,” Smith shared, reflecting on the nature of professional sports where alliances shift but respect remains. This transition period for the Ravens is not just about filling a positional gap but also about evolving team chemistry and leadership.
As Smith and Simpson prepare to anchor the defense, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely, anticipating how these changes will shape the team’s identity and performance.
The upcoming NFL season promises to be an exciting one for Ravens fans, with fresh faces and tested strategies converging on the gridiron. As Trenton Simpson steps into a more prominent role, his journey will be one of the defining narratives for Baltimore, possibly marking the emergence of a new star in the NFL’s defensive landscape.
Source: Yardbarker
