As defenses go, the Baltimore Ravens have an argument for staking claim to the best in the NFL this season.

The Ravens’ failure to reach the Super Bowl isn’t going to be placed solely at the feet of the defensive unit, who surrendered 17 points in the first half of the AFC Championship Game to Kansas City. That same unit allowed zero points to the Chiefs in the second half.

Unfortunately, the Baltimore offense could only muster three second-half points despite MVP quarterback Lamar Jackson’s best efforts, and the team lost by just seven points after holding the Chiefs under 20.

If that wasn’t bad enough, the Ravens’ defensive coaching staff and personnel office have since been plundered with defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald leaving to lead the Seattle Seahawks, starting the exodus of talent.

That fact alone makes retaining their defensive talent all the more important this offseason, starting with defensive tackle Justin Madubuike.

“Madubuike developed into a star during the 2023 season,” writes Marcus Mosher of 33rd Team. “He was the best defensive lineman for the Baltimore Ravens. Baltimore can’t afford to lose him in the middle of its defense, especially with its smaller linebackers behind him.”

Madubuike finished 2023 as Pro Football Focus’ 18th highest-graded interior defensive lineman with a 77. 4 final tally, the highest in his career thus far.

His 79.6 pass-rushing grade was the best of his isolated groupings and ranked 13th among his position group while his 66.4 run-defense grade ranked 33rd.

According to Spotrac Madubuike is expected to earn $20.3 million in average annual salary on a four-year deal this offseason comparing him to stars like New York Jets defensive lineman Quinnen Williams among others.

“In terms of Baltimore, man, that’s home,” Madubuike told NFL.com at Pro Bowl Games practice. “But, you know, business is business, and that side is going to take care of itself.”