The Baltimore Ravens have taken an interesting approach to their defensive departures this season, with cornerback Ronald Darby, defensive end Jadeveon Clowney and linebacker Patrick Queen finding new players for 2024. However, instead of signing new players via free agents, the Ravens have filled the gaps in the roster internally.

The strategy was scrutinized and criticized. The Ravens defense, which was elite last year, was sure to take a massive hit in 2024. Fans collectively rolled their eyes at the seeming lack of urgency the team displayed in the offseason.

The defense still has its stars, though. Cornerback Marlon Humphrey, defensive lineman Nnamdi Madubuike, linebacker Roquan Smith and safety Kyle Hamilton continue to form a defense that should hold up admirably. When one of these stars speaks, teammates, coaches and fans listen. Especially when the words come from safety Hamilton, who has been voted All-Pro for three years.

The 24-year-old third-year safety isn’t at his best yet and is already one of the best in the game. He clearly has an eye for talent. He’s been paying close attention this offseason. The Baltimore Ravens’ official website asked Ravens players who they think will breakout this season, and Hamilton had the perfect answer.

“I don’t think there are many guys in the league at his position that impact the game like he does. He’s just been a problem for the offense all training camp. He’s practically unblockable. He reminds me a lot of Chris Jones from KC.” -Kyle Hamilton

That’s high praise from Hamilton. Hamilton has seen how much work Jones has put in this offseason, and it shows. That doesn’t sound like the usual jargon coming from a teammate. Comparing Jones to the Kansas City Chiefs’ other defensive player, Chris Jones, is not something to be taken lightly.

The Ravens’ first-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft has recognized the potential that once suggested Jones could be a surefire first-round talent.

When defensive end Travis Jones came out of UConn, there was a general feeling that he could be a first-round talent. Fortunately for the Ravens, he faded quite a bit and they selected him in the third round with the 76th pick of the 2022 NFL Draft.

Hamilton isn’t the only one who has noticed Travis Jones’ hard work. Four other players noticed the difference between the second and third years. Almost all of the players mentioned the new mentality and how smarter he plays. Even defensive line coach Dennis Johnson knows how special Jones can be.

Needless to say, the Ravens could use a big jump from their third-year defensive player. Nnamdi Madubuike had his breakout season last year and it seems more likely that Jones will join him this year. Travis Jones has gone on record as having six sacks this season, which is the bare minimum.

The Ravens will need Jones in Week 1 against Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs. The defense will need to attack him, beat him, and give him problems all night long if they want to win. Based on what Hamilton and others have seen this offseason, expect Jones to bring his best interpretation of the “other Jones” and wreak havoc.

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