Zach Orr appears to have the qualities of a future NFL head coach, but his immediate focus is on building a “dangerous” Baltimore Ravens defense in 2025. As the second-year defensive coordinator, Orr has the tools to make that happen—especially if the team brings back a former No. 1 overall pick to bolster the defensive line.
CBS Baltimore’s Rick Ritter believes re-signing free agent edge rusher Jadeveon Clowney would be a smart move. Speaking with Kevin Oestreicher on the “Locked On Ravens” podcast, Ritter said, “You’ve got a guy like Jadeveon Clowney still available. He knows this system, this organization, this team. Do you bring him back later in the year? Maybe it’s a one-year, \$5 million deal after camp. Whatever the case, you can’t have too much depth on the D-line.”
While Clowney would certainly add firepower, there are valid reasons why the Ravens may choose to pass. Those reasons aren’t rooted in his previous performance in Baltimore—in 2023, Clowney was a major contributor with 9.5 sacks, 23 pressures, and 19 QB hits. He was equally effective against the run, making him a well-rounded force on defense.
However, the Ravens have since filled his role. Kyle Van Noy and Odafe Oweh now anchor the pass rush, while Tavius Robinson, a 6’6”, 262-pound defensive end, is emerging as a reliable edge-setter against the run. Plus, rookie Mike Green—college football’s sack leader last year—is already earning high praise as a future star.
With this deep and talented rotation, a Clowney reunion feels unnecessary. Instead, Orr’s challenge will be how he maximizes the versatility and depth of his defensive personnel.
Orr’s promotion from inside linebackers coach to coordinator last season was a major leap, and while it came with growing pains, the team supported him with experienced mentors. That included retired DC Dean Pees, whose return as a consultant helped turn the defense around mid-season. Now, former Ravens coordinator Chuck Pagano is also on board to guide a key position group and assist Orr in refining a complex scheme that blends aggressive pressure with clever coverage disguises.
If Orr succeeds, he’ll follow the same path to a head coaching role that others like Mike Macdonald, Rex Ryan, and Pagano once took in Baltimore. Ritter is confident, saying Orr “will get the opportunity to lead a team and build his own culture.”
Still, that opportunity hinges on results. To earn a top job, Orr must steer the Ravens’ defense to elite status, using both strategic innovation and strong leadership.