Analyst reveals key to Ravens' 2026 hope

The Baltimore Ravens are recovering from a disastrous 2025 season, with hope that new head coach Jesse Minter can spearhead a turnaround in 2026.

With Lamar Jackson central to the Ravens' hopes, getting him healthy is key, and so is improving the roster, which can only be done after Lamar's contract is fixed.

The defense should improve under Minter, and if the offense keeps the status quo, there is every reason to think 2026 can be far better than 2025.

But what about fans who are still all doom and gloom about Baltimore's chances next season?

ESPN's Jeremy Fowler gives you reasons for hope.

"The Ravens have a chance in every game with quarterback Lamar Jackson and running back Derrick Henry leading their offense," Fowler wrote. "New head coach Jesse Minter should instantly improve a much-maligned defense. Up to four more draft selections are on the way because of the compensatory pick formula."

More: Ravens' 2026 future could hinge on 1 unlikely player

Minter under pressure from Day 1

Unlike most first-time head coaches, Minter isn't walking into a disaster. He's walking into an organization that has talent everywhere, including a two-time MVP in his prime, a star running back, and a defense that has key pieces ready to explode.

As such, there will be no grace period for Minter. He'll be expected to guide this Ravens ship to the playoffs, in the hope that he can do what John Harbaugh failed to do over the last five years and make a Super Bowl.

Is that a little unfair to Minter in his first head coaching job? A little, but this is the NFL, and it's a results business.

So, all eyes will be on Minter to see if he can get the right results in Year 1.

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