For a secondary that didn’t have the greatest season in 2024, the Baltimore Ravens boast a superb talent on the backend. 2022 first round pick Kyle Hamilton has blossomed into a star, becoming a true weapon in Baltimore’s defensive system. He’s been on an upwards trajectory, getting better as each year passes by.
In 2024, Hamilton recorded a career-high 107 tackles, nine passes defended, six quarterback hits, four tackles for loss and one interception. He actually blitzed the most in his career last season, 34 times to be exact. The Ravens obviously picked up Hamilton’s fifth-year option, meaning he’ll be under contract through the 2026 season. He’s also eligible for an extension, which should be coming.
In a recent poll conducted by ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, NFL coaches, executives and scouts ranked Hamilton as the league’s top safety heading into the 2025 season.
Hamilton’s 14.5% ball-hawking rate is decent but unspectacular, coming on 76 targets. But he can line up all over the field, from free safety to “star” linebacker. He played 200 snaps in 2024 “from the slot” as an overhang defender.
He is one of five players over the past two seasons with 15 pass breakups, five interceptions and multiple forced fumbles.
An anonymous NFL personnel director called Hamilton the “all-around best player” due to his size, instincts, production and blitzing ability. The Ravens now have a formidable secondary around Hamilton that includes rookie safety Malaki Starks, standout second year cornerback Nate Wiggins and the recently acquired Jaire Alexander. Of course, don’t forget about Marlon Humphrey in the slot.
Hamilton’s production should continue to rise going forward.