Entering the 2025 season, the Baltimore Ravens have arguably a top-two roster in the NFL. In terms of complete teams, Baltimore and the Philadelphia Eagles sit at the top, and the Ravens are trying to accomplish what Philly just did. Baltimore could win a Super Bowl in 2025, especially if the younger players on the roster emerge into stars like everyone thinks they can.
One promising young Ravens player, who’s seemingly set for a breakout year is Nate Wiggins. The second-year corner was recently highlighted in a piece by The Athletic, naming one potential breakout player for all 32 teams. Reporter Jeff Zrebiec explained how promising Wiggins’ rookie season was, and how an offseason change should propel his development.
“The more the 2024 first-round pick played his rookie season, the better he looked. Quarterbacks had just a 66.7 quarterback rating when targeting Wiggins, who allowed only 31 receptions on 62 targets while playing 68 percent of Baltimore’s defensive snaps. Wiggins’ rookie season would have been even more impressive had he caught a few more of the passes that he got his hands on. He put on about 10 pounds of muscle this offseason, and he has a far better understanding of Baltimore’s defensive plan. The Ravens believe he has star potential.”Jeff Zrebiec
Nate Wiggins named as potential breakout player for Ravens after offseason weight gain
Wiggins entered the league as a rangy corner, measuring 6-foot-1, 173 pounds at the scouting combine. However, his 4.28 40-yard dash speed and impressive coverage skills still made him a first-round pick for Baltimore. As Zrebiec pointed out, the young corner looked like a first-round pick on the field, improving as the year went on.
Now, he has a year of experience under his belt and a larger frame; both should help him continue his ascent to stardom. Additionally, Baltimore still has Marlon Humphrey, and also signed Jaire Alexander this offseason. With Higgins set to emerge as well, the Ravens could have one of the best cornerback rooms in the league.
The cornerback unit is, of course, a part of a defense that also has Kyle Hamilton, Roquan Smith, and Nnamdi Madubuike, as well as other young promising talent. If things go according to plan, the Ravens will be an even scarier team in 2025.