The Baltimore Ravens looked to be the best team in the NFL in December and early January, but they fell in the AFC Championship Game to the Kansas City Chiefs, the eventual Super Bowl champions.
As they always have for many years, they won with defense during the 2023 season, and on Friday, they took a big step toward contending again in 2024 by signing defensive tackle Justin Madubuike to a four-year deal that is worth $98 million.
Ravens linebacker Patrick Queen took to Twitter to express his happiness over the deal.
“Man talk about happy for somebody bruh we talked about this everyday he definitely got what he wanted,” Queen tweeted.
Man talk about happy for somebody bruh we talked about this everyday he definitely got what he wanted 🔥
— 🦈 (@Patrickqueen_) March 8, 2024
2023 was Madubuike’s fourth NFL season, and he blossomed by totaling 13.0 sacks, 56 tackles (38 solo), 33 quarterback hits, and 12 tackles for loss, all of which were career highs.
He was rewarded for his production with his first Pro Bowl nod, and now he has been rewarded with a huge bag of cold, hard cash.
Baltimore finished at the top of the league in points allowed, forced turnovers, and rushing touchdowns given up, but it wasn’t quite enough against the Chiefs in the playoffs.
However, their offense could stand to improve, as it produced just one touchdown in that contest.
They have a young stud in wide receiver Zay Flowers, who had a strong rookie year, while Mark Andrews continues to be one of football’s best tight ends.
But they could use another legitimate threat at wideout, not to mention another pass-rusher to make Madubuike’s life easier.
At the very least, Baltimore should be there where it matters in 2024, as long as they remain relatively healthy.
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Ravens Announce Massive Deal With Pro-Bowl Defender
