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Last season’s Baltimore Ravens defense struggled mightily, largely because of injuries and inconsistency among some of their top players.
One of those guys who did not live up to expectations in 2025 was cornerback Marlon Humphrey. That’s mainly because Humphrey dealt with multiple injuries throughout the season. He had a finger injury that caused him to be in a cast and some lower leg concerns.
Entering the 2026 season, Humphrey is looking to redeem himself after not playing like the guy who has been to four Pro Bowls and been selected to the first-team All-Pro twice. His new head coach, Jesse Minter, is making it known how he feels about his veteran corner.
Jesse Minter Talks Marlon Humphrey on Ravens’ Defense in 2026
Marlon Humphrey, New York Giants
Marlon Humphrey, New York Giants
BALTIMORE, MARYLAND – NOVEMBER 23: Marlon Humphrey #44 of the Baltimore Ravens in action against the New York Jets at M&T Bank Stadium on November 23, 2025 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
After the Ravens’ practice on Saturday, Minter was asked about Humphrey, who spoke to reporters shortly afterward. The first-time head coach isn’t letting the 2025 season affect his thoughts on Humphrey.
Humphrey played in 15 games, racking up 68 tackles, 13 pass deflections, 4 interceptions, 3 tackles for loss, 3 quarterback hits, 2 forced fumbles, 1 fumble recovery, and 1 sack. He allowed a completion percentage of 64.6%, tied for the highest of his eight-year NFL career.
Pro Football Focus gave Humphrey an overall grade of 50.1, ranking 105th out of 114 cornerbacks last year. He also had a coverage grade of 43.8 and a run-defense grade of 78.9.
Marlon Humphrey is Ready for Bounce-Back 2026 Season
Marlon Humphrey
Marlon Humphrey
Humphrey is in the perfect situation with a new head coach who is defensive-minded. Minter has been great over the last two seasons, coaching up the Los Angeles Chargers‘ defense to be a top-11 unit.
The veteran can learn a few things from Minter to improve his game and get back to the guy who was an All-Pro in 2024. It all comes down to Humphrey being more consistent in coverage. He allowed too many big plays, but he also was not 100% healthy.
Baltimore is going to need Humphrey to find his groove quickly in Minter’s defense. Humphrey is too important for the pass defense not to perform better than last year.
The Ravens’ secondary is getting back all their starting cornerbacks from last year. Humphrey is joined by Nate Wiggins and Chidobe Awuzie at the position. Awuzie was the most consistent of the three, but Wiggins and Humphrey have more upside to be great.
If the Ravens can get more out of their secondary in 2026, this defense will be much better off. The pass rush needs to improve for Baltimore, but Humphrey and Wiggins play a bigger role in getting this defense back on track. Watch for Humphrey to answer the call and have the bounce-back 2026 season everyone expects him to have coming up.
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Anthony Miller Anthony Miller is a veteran reporter covering the WNBA and College Football for Heavy.com. He has been with Heavy since 2026, as he has covered multiple professional leagues like the NFL, WNBA, UFL, XFL, USFL, PLL, MLS, and more since 2019. Currently, he covers the UFL as a reporter for UFL News Hub and FanSided as a site expert and contributor covering the Philadelphia Eagles, Chicago Bears, and Minnesota Vikings. More about Anthony Miller