The Ravens’ linebacker has returned, bringing the spark needed to elevate the team’s defensive unit to the next level.
Zach Orr has proven to be the missing piece in the Baltimore Ravens’ defense, as his return to the field is already making a significant impact. After a period of inconsistency and struggling with defensive playmaking, Orr’s presence has sparked a noticeable transformation in the team’s defensive unit.
“Having Zach back in the middle of our defense is huge,” said Ravens head coach John Harbaugh. “He brings a level of energy, leadership, and knowledge that we’ve been missing. His ability to read plays and make adjustments on the fly has already paid off, and we’re excited to see how he continues to influence our defense moving forward.”
Orr, a standout linebacker for the Ravens, has long been known for his exceptional vision on the field, his ability to diagnose plays quickly, and his tackling prowess. Since his return, he’s immediately become a focal point of the Ravens’ defensive scheme, filling a crucial gap that had been limiting their effectiveness.
“It feels good to be back on the field and be able to contribute to the team,” Orr said in his post-game comments. “We’ve got a great group of guys, but I know the impact I can make when I’m healthy and doing my part. Our defense is definitely improving, and we’re just getting started.”
Orr’s return has allowed the Ravens to make some critical adjustments, especially in the linebacking core, which now has the stability and leadership it lacked in previous games. His presence has freed up other defenders to focus on their assignments, creating a more balanced and aggressive defense.
“Zach is a player who makes everyone around him better,” said Ravens defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald. “His instincts are off the charts, and he has a way of communicating that elevates the whole defense. He’s been exactly what we needed to take our game to the next level.”
With Orr back at full strength, the Ravens are now poised to become even more formidable on defense. His leadership and experience have not only provided a spark for the defense but also allowed the team to adjust their strategy, making them a much more complete and effective unit.
As the Ravens look to make a playoff push, Zach Orr’s role as the “missing piece” in their defense is becoming increasingly clear. His return could very well be the key to transforming the Ravens’ defensive fortunes for the remainder of the season.
No-brainer Chig Okonkwo-Packers trade package is too good for Titans to refuse
The Tennessee Titans are are aggressive sellers at Tuesday's (Nov. 4) NFL trade deadline. On Monday evening, the Titans dealt veteran EDGE Dre'Mont Jones to the Baltimore Ravens. Another player who has been rumored to be available is tight end Chig Okonkwo. Okonkwo is on an expiring contract, and new general manager Mike Borgonzi hasn't shown public interest in re-signing him.
The Titans were in a similar situation with cornerback Roger McCreary. He was on an expiring contract as a player who was acquired by a previous GM. Borgonzi traded him to the Los Angeles Rams in exchange for a late-round pick swap in the 2026 NFL Draft. Jones is the latest Titan to be traded.
If the Titans are going to trade Okonkwo, a shiny new potential landing spot emerged over the weekend. The Green Bay Packers lost stud tight end Tucker Kraft to a season-ending torn ACL injury. The Packers are legitimate postseason contenders, and Okonkwo would fill the void left behind by Kraft's injury.
A new landing spot emerges for Titans TE Chig Okonkwo at NFL trade deadline
Kraft's injury creates a sizable need on Matt LaFleur's offense. Prior to going down, the former South Dakota State standout had registered 32 receptions for 489 receiving yards and six touchdowns. He was leading the Packers in every major receiving category.
Okonkwo has been productive as the Titans' move tight end and primary pass catcher at the position. Through nine appearances, he's accumulated 29 catches for 281 yards. The athletic Okonkwo would undeniably be more productive in a stellar Packers offense with Jordan Love at quarterback.
The Packers appear ill-equipped to replace Kraft in-house. Luke Musgrave, who was drafted alongside Kraft in 2023, has been injury prone and inconsistent across 2024 and 2025. The Packers are postseason-bound with legitimate Super Bowl aspirations. With the Titans potentially considering a similar return to the McCreary trade, Green Bay is a perfect landing spot for Okonkwo.
