Ravens Sign Safety Hawkins, Boost Defense

0:00For the NFL, it's March 20th. Here's what's happening. The Baltimore Ravens are revamping their defense under new head coach Jesse Mentor during the 2026 offseason. They've lost five free agents on that side of the ball, including two safeties, a low-heed Gilman to the Kansas City Chiefs and our Darius Washington to the New York Giants. That leaves a gap for a third safety and Mentor scheme alongside starters Kyle Hamilton and 2025 first-round pick Maliki Starks. To fill that role, the Ravens signed safety Jalen Hawkins to a two-year $10 million deal. Hawkins comes off a standout 2025 season with the New England Patriots, where he racked up 71 tackles for Interceptions 6, past deflections, and solid postseason play as they nearly reached the Super Bowl. Last year, Baltimore's defense ranked near the bottom of the league, hampered by injuries, especially in the secondary. They managed just 20 takeaways, tying

1:00for 15th in the NFL, so Hawkins steps in to boost turnovers and versatility. Meanwhile, the team also added edge-resher Tray Hendrickson, who should push their sack total past 30 and create more chances for Hawkins to shine, in coverage, run support, or even blitzing. With these moves, the Ravens defense looks primed for a rebound, blending experience and scheme fit to compete right out of the gate.