Baltimore Ravens bought in much-needed reinforcement for squad depth in key areas of the field during the off-season by adding suitable players to their roster. One of the most noteworthy positions that they strengthened was wide receivers in the shape of four first-round wide receivers. The youngest of those was the sensational golden boy Zay Flowers.
The big name in the added players’ list was undoubtedly the three-time Pro Bowl receiver Odell Beckham Junior. Moreover, three-time Pro Bowl edge defender Jadeveon Clowney also joined the squad after being transfer-listed from Cleveland following a two-year spell in the former team.
Clowney has had the most significant impact out of all the signings in the initial stages of the 2023 season.
Odell Beckham Jr. and Jadeveon Clowney, both aged 30, have defied the factor of age coming in as they have hit their peak, it seems as of now, playing with every ounce of determination in them.
Jadeveon Clowney’s Impact – Remarkable, Transitional, Instant.
Odell Beckham Jr. has been forced to miss an ample amount of games, featuring in one and a half games due to a persisting ankle injury. Despite the upset, he currently holds the 5th ranking on the team in receptions as well as targets, 4th in receiving yards, being at an astonishing 66 times.
Throughout the entire journey of his career, he has always been looked up to in desperate times by virtue of his excellent ability to be a run defender and edge setter, even though his style of play was totally different when he first emerged from South Carolina University around ten years ago as an elite pass rusher.
Nevertheless, Clowney has not only been successful in ensuring his fitness to be top-notch as and when required as an outside linebacker but also has contributed to the attacking play in situations of pass rush. Clowney doesn’t hold the top spot in sacks but stands out in Quarterback hits, earning five hits to his name and contributing in a tackle for loss and a pass deflection, too.
It almost feels like the Ravens have hit the jackpot with Clowney’s signing as he has smoothly and efficiently adapted to Mike Macdonald’s (Defensive Coordinator) scheme, having been close to record sacks and tackles for loss before losing out on the opportunity by fine margins.
Head Coach John Harbough had only heaps of praises to express for Clowney, “Jadeveon Clowney has played great. He’s done a great job.
We’ve always thought the world of him as a player, playing against him, and when you have to scheme against him – the point that you are all making – it’s really tough. When you face guys like that, and then you have a chance for them to play for you, you’re excited about that. He’s played really well. He fits what we’re doing well and plays hard. I’m glad he’s here.”
Before signing for the Ravens, Clowney spent two seasons with the Browns, having played 26 games and gaining commendable stats to his name, including 23 Quarterback hits, 11 sacks, 15 tackles for loss, and three forced fumbles.
Clowney will be playing against his former team, Cleveland, as Rovers head towards Cleveland for the clash against Cleveland Browns on 29th September in a Week 4 AFC North Clash.
As for now, it is a three-way tussle to gain the top spot on the AFC North standings, and Clowney must be aware of the importance and critical significance of the match ahead.
