Veteran LB continues to prove Ravens right for taking chance on him

The Ravens (4-2) are back on top of the AFC North following a 24-16 win over the Titans where they were proved right for signing a veteran who was one of the last additions of the offseason.

Linebacker Jadeveon Clowney, who joined Baltimore on a one-year deal in August, had nine pressures in the win, averaging nearly one every two pass-rush snaps, according to the Baltimore Banner's Jonas Shaffer. It was an impressive day for the 30-year-old who had 22 pressures all last year.

Head coach John Harbaugh is happy Clowney is finally on his side following the three-time Pro Bowler's big day.

"He's a guy that we didn't necessarily expect to have at the beginning of the season. We've been playing against him all these years. Always admired the way he played," Harbaugh told reporters. "He's been a great addition to our team."

The Ravens have struggled to close out games this season, but Clowney made sure that didn't happen again in Week 6, totaling two sacks, four quarterback hits and two tackles for a loss.

It was the bounce-back performance Baltimore needed following its loss to the Steelers in Week 5, and it was a great confidence boost for Clowney as well.

The former No. 1 overall pick has been highly criticized throughout his career for not meeting the expectations that come with being the first pick in the draft, but he is off to a great start in 2023 with 13 tackles, 3.5 sacks and one pass defensed.

Clowney's role has grown over the past few weeks as linebackers Tyus Bowser (injured reserve), Odafe Oweh (ankle) and David Ojabo (ankle) have all been out dealing with injuries.

The Ravens will need him to continue stepping up in their absence with the Lions (5-1) up next in Week 7.