The 2026 season faces high expectations for the Ravens, with an over/under win total of 11.5, tied for the league’s best alongside the Super Bowl-contending Los Angeles Rams, according to betting markets.
Colin Cowherd’s pessimistic view for 2026 centers on a regression in Jackson’s performance and a challenging schedule. He notes that the Ravens will have a new head coach, a new offensive coordinator, and a new defensive coordinator. He also references Jackson’s 2024-2025 performance, suggesting that Jackson’s rushing numbers declined significantly, and that the team finished the previous season at 8-9.
It’s important to consider the context of Jackson’s 2025 campaign. He faced a series of injuries, including hamstring, knee, ankle, and toe issues, which limited his availability. The Ravens weathered a difficult stretch and still nearly earned a playoff berth, highlighting both the resilience of the squad and the central role Jackson plays as the team’s core driver.
Baltimore faced a tough early-season schedule in the previous year, a challenge that contrasts with the current outlook where the schedule features relatively favorable openings, including early games against the Colts and the Saints. However, Cowherd warned of a difficult midseason stretch anticipated for Weeks 7 through 14, with opponents that could test the Ravens’ depth and execution. The slate reportedly includes encounters with the Cincinnati Bengals, Buffalo Bills, Jacksonville Jaguars, Los Angeles Chargers, Houston Texans, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Jackson’s health remains the pivotal factor for Baltimore’s championship aspirations. The Ravens are built around his unique skill set, and his availability shapes the team’s ceiling. While the coaching staff transition brings fresh strategies and a new leadership dynamic, the roster possesses the talent to contend if Jackson can stay on the field and execute at a high level.
Looking ahead, the conversation centers on whether Baltimore can translate talent into sustained success, including a deep playoff push and potential Super Bowl contention. The evolving coaching framework will influence offensive and defensive schemes, player utilization, and in-game adjustments, all of which will be critical to maximizing the roster’s potential.
In summary, the Ravens enter 2026 with high expectations and a blueprint that hinges on Lamar Jackson’s health and productivity. A transition in the coaching ranks adds intrigue, but the ultimate measure remains on-field performance, especially in a schedule that features marquee opponents. If Jackson stays healthy and the unit harmonizes under the new leadership, Baltimore could fulfill its considerable upside and pursue a championship run.
