Tuesday morning, the Baltimore Ravens named Georgia Bulldogs offensive coordinator Todd Monken as the team’s next play-caller. After parting with Greg Roman following the 2022 postseason, the Baltimore Ravens get their next offensive coordinator to help jumpstart their offense.
Monken was a vital part of the National Champion Bulldogs, helping guide them to consecutive national titles. Before joining Georgia’s staff in 2020, Monken served as offensive coordinator for the Cleveland Browns in 2019, after spending three years in Tampa Bay. Monken also worked as the Buccaneers’ offensive play-caller in 2018 before leaving for Cleveland.
The Ravens offense was terribly underwhelming in 2022, especially after quarterback Lamar Jackson missed much of the season due to injury. According to Pro Football Reference, Baltimore ranked 19th in points scored, 16th in total yards, and 19th in passing touchdowns. Despite ranking very well as a rushing team, the Ravens’ passing attack struggled and something had to be done.
What Todd Monken Brings to the Ravens
Although there were other outstanding circumstances which led to their struggles, there was plenty of blame at the offensive play calling. Monken offers the same promise as run game coordinator, but with a far more expressive offensive attack. In his article for The Athletic, Seth Emerson quotes Monken in saying “I do like to throw”, while also referring to him as the “Air Raid Guy.”
Emerson also mentions some of Monken’s tendencies as a play caller. He notes Monken will often call passing plays in situations where most offensive coordinators will call for runs, and vice versa. According to Childs Walker of The Baltimore Sun in an interview with former NFL OL John Stichcomb, Monken’s best trait is his “adaptability.” To the average fan, this marks a big change up from their previous experience.
At Georgia, Monken had the luxury of having two great tight ends which he leaned on heavily, and he will be stepping into a similar situation in Baltimore. Monken also worked with incredible receivers like George Pickens, who he utilized heavily when available. Fans should have a similar expectation for his relationship with Rashod Bateman.
This is a positive step for the Baltimore Ravens offense. However, their work is not done. In order to get the most out of Monken’s capabilities, the team should continue its efforts in supplying receiving talent for him to work with. In Tampa, Monken had elite talent in Mike Evans and Chris Godwin, so expect the Ravens to at least try to add more receivers in the coming months.