The Pittsburgh Steelers play in what is considered the most competitive division in the NFL. The division includes the Baltimore Ravens, Cleveland Browns, Cincinnati Bengals, and Steelers. In the 2023 season, all four teams were potential playoff contenders for the majority of the campaign.
Baltimore Ravens
Ravens QB Lamar Jackson runs with the ball against the Steelers.
Three of the four teams—the Browns, Steelers, and Ravens—made the 2023 NFL postseason. However, all three had disappointing playoff runs. The Ravens, in particular, were one of the best teams in the NFL, with many pundits considering them legitimate Super Bowl favorites as the playoffs approached. Despite this, their 2023 season ended in disappointment.
This offseason, the Ravens made some interesting moves. The most notable and intimidating for the rest of the division was the signing of running back Derrick Henry, known as the most dominant running back in the league. A backfield featuring quarterback Lamar Jackson and Henry is very formidable. Former NFL QB Robert Griffin III expressed his strong belief on social media that the Ravens have their greatest roster ever in the Jackson era.
The Ravens have the best roster they have ever had in the Lamar Jackson Era. Time to take advantage of it. https://t.co/hBhHqROpWC
— Robert Griffin III (@RGIII) July 19, 2024
Griffin posted this message after NFL insider Adam Schefter broke the news that safety Eddie Jackson would be joining the Ravens. Jackson, a two-time Pro Bowler and one-time All-Pro, has played in the NFL for seven seasons and has scored six defensive touchdowns during his career.
The Ravens have had strong rosters and been a respectable team in the NFL for several seasons. With Jackson as their quarterback, they have found tremendous regular season success, boasting a record of 58 wins and just 19 losses. Jackson has also won two MVP awards. Despite their regular season success, the Ravens have struggled in the postseason, going just 2-4 with Jackson as the quarterback.
Wesley Hitt / Getty Images
Former Titans RB Derrick Henry runs against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
This offseason, like the Steelers, Baltimore made a big effort to address their weaknesses and overcome their recent playoff struggles. Adding Henry should help keep their offense on the field. The Steelers and the rest of the division are not thrilled to face Henry, but they will be ready.
This offseason, the Steelers were able to acquire linebacker Patrick Queen from the Ravens, bolstering an already strong linebacker group in Pittsburgh. Queen and the Steelers should be equipped to slow down the Ravens' formidable backfield.
The Ravens have a solid offensive line, a great backfield, good quarterback play, improved receivers, and a solid defense. As Griffin believes, this is the best roster the Ravens have had with Jackson as their quarterback.
The pressure is on for the Ravens to get over the hump in the 2024 season. One could argue that all four AFC North teams are under a lot of pressure. Winning the division will not be easy. It is truly anyone's division, and the 2024 season is set to produce fireworks. It is exciting for football fans who will get to watch the AFC North in unprecedented fashion during the In-Season Hard Knocks featuring them.
Steelers' Roster Is Built To Win The AFC North
Steelers fans are hopeful that the Ravens will continue to struggle in the postseason and stay away from any Super Bowls. The Steelers themselves made big moves this offseason.
Steelers.com
Steelers linebacker Patrick Queen speaks with the Pittsburgh media.
Steelers General Manager Omar Khan was aggressive, upgrading their quarterbacks and offensive line. They also improved on special teams and defense. While the Ravens appear to be the favorites to win the AFC North, the Steelers are built to challenge for the division title.
#SteelerNation
