John Jenkins is on the cusp of a breakout season with the Baltimore Ravens. Drafted in 2013, Jenkins has been through multiple teams and has yet to find a home that feels right until now. His experience, paired with a strong and dynamic Ravens squad, could be the catalyst for a significant change in his NFL career. As the Ravens gear up for the upcoming season, Jenkins is poised to make a notable impact on the defensive line, potentially becoming a cornerstone for a unit that aims to reclaim its top-tier status.

The Baltimore Ravens have bolstered their defensive lineup by signing veteran nose tackle John Jenkins to a one-year deal. This addition comes in response to the retirement of Michael Pierce, highlighting the Ravens' focus on reinforcing their interior defense. Jenkins, who spent the previous season with the Las Vegas Raiders, brings considerable experience to the team, having recorded 46 tackles and one sack in 2024. At 35 years old, Jenkins joins a competitive group that includes Nnamdi Madubuike and Travis Jones, aiming to enhance the team's run-stopping capabilities.

This strategic move underscores the Ravens' commitment to maintaining a stout defensive front as they prepare for the upcoming season. Jenkins' proven ability to start in all games last season exemplifies his durability and readiness to contribute to the Ravens' defensive scheme.

The Raiders are solidifying their defensive line by re-signing Zach Carter, who contributed 22 tackles and 1.5 sacks in the previous season. Carter, initially a third-round pick by the Bengals, joined the Raiders mid-season and showcased his potential, particularly in the final games where he tied his career-high in tackles. His retention, alongside Adam Butler and Malcolm Koonce, shows the team's commitment to building a formidable defensive front. The only remaining free agent from the rotation is John Jenkins, indicating a focused effort to maintain continuity on defense.

In Week 16's Thursday Night Football, the Los Angeles Chargers defeated the Denver Broncos 34-27. A standout performance came from Broncos cornerback Kris Abrams-Draine, who, in his second consecutive impressive outing, achieved a 75.8 PFF coverage grade.

During the game, Abrams-Draine allowed just three receptions for 49 yards on six targets and secured an interception, showcasing his growing impact on the field.

The Las Vegas Raiders face a pivotal offseason with eight defensive players poised to enter free agency, creating a challenging situation for General Manager Tom Telesco and Coach Antonio Pierce.

Among these are key defensive backs Tre’von Moehrig and Nate Hobbs, both of whom have shown promise but present a dilemma for the team's future. With a strong safety market expected, the Raiders must carefully consider their options and the impact of injuries on their decisions.