The Baltimore Ravens face a significant challenge in their secondary following the unfortunate injury of Ar'Darius Washington, who suffered a torn Achilles tendon during a conditioning workout. With Washington expected to miss most, if not the entire 2025 season, the team will need to rely heavily on Kyle Hamilton and newly drafted safety Malaki Starks, whom many view as the best safety prospect of this draft class.

The Ravens' coaching staff, headed by John Harbaugh and defensive coordinator Zach Orr, now finds themselves in a position where they may need to expedite Starks' integration into the lineup earlier than anticipated. Washington's absence leaves a gap that will require immediate attention, and Starks’ development could be essential for maintaining the defensive integrity that has characterized the Ravens' play in recent seasons.

John Harbaugh, head coach of the Baltimore Ravens, has expressed optimism regarding the return of safety Ar'Darius Washington from a torn Achilles injury for the late NFL season in 2025. Initially, the Ravens feared they would lose Washington for the entire season after he sustained the injury during conditioning drills. However, Washington's performance prior to the injury was notable, finishing the last season with a career-high 64 tackles, two interceptions, and five tackles for loss in 12 games. The Ravens also drafted Malaki Starks, which may impact Washington's return timing and role.

The Ravens had previously extended a tender offer to Washington, ensuring he would remain with the team unless another franchise signed him away. His recovery timeline and potential return to play could significantly enhance the versatility of Baltimore's defense, especially following Starks’ addition to the roster.

The Baltimore Ravens have suffered a significant blow with the injury of their promising safety, Ar'Darius Washington, who will miss the entire season due to a torn Achilles. Washington had been pivotal in the team's defensive scheme and was expected to play a larger role following the team's draft of Georgia standout Malaki Starks. With Washington now sidelined, the Ravens must explore the free-agent market for potential replacements.

Several notable veterans are available, providing the Ravens with options to bolster their secondary. The team's previous commitment to Washington, reflected in their exclusive rights tender earlier this year, highlights their belief in his potential. As they navigate this challenging situation, the Ravens look to integrate a new player into their defense without skipping a beat.

The Baltimore Ravens face a significant setback with the news that safety Ar'Darius Washington has torn his Achilles tendon during conditioning drills, leading to a season-ending injury. Washington, who had recently signed a one-year deal after a breakout season, was expected to be a crucial element in the Ravens' secondary this fall. The 25-year-old defensive back recorded career-highs last season with 64 tackles and two interceptions.

This injury not only deprives the team of a promising young player but also raises questions about the depth and strategy of their defensive lineup heading into the new season. The Ravens will now need to reassess their roster and defensive schemes, potentially looking to fill the void created by Washington's absence.

As the 2025 NFL draft approaches, the Baltimore Ravens face significant questions across their defensive roster. With a wealth of offensive talent, General Manager Eric DeCosta is set to leverage their 11 draft picks to bolster a defense that has lost key pieces. The defensive line will look to improve after the departures of Brent Urban and Michael Pierce, with Nnamdi Madubuike, Travis Jones, and Broderick Washington expected to shoulder a heavier load.

In the edge rusher department, the team must assess potential replacements for the soon-to-be free agents Kyle Van Noy, Odafe Oweh, and David Ojabo. The Ravens ranked poorly in pass rush win rate last season, and a notable focus will be required to upgrade this area. The cornerback position is another priority, despite adding Chidobe Awuzie this offseason, as they currently roster only five corners. Baltimore is banking on their top starters to deliver, but the need for depth is undeniable. Finally, safety Ar'Darius Washington's uncertain status looms large as the team prepares for the draft, anticipating the dual need to draft a safety while hoping to retain Washington through contract negotiations.