Ravens Name Third-Year Linebacker Trenton Simpson Biggest X Factor for 2025 Season

As the 2025 NFL season approaches, several players are viewed as key X-factors for their teams. Bengals cornerback Cam Taylor-Britt is critical for Cincinnati's defense, needing to regain confidence and improve his lockdown coverage to support the pass rush led by Trey Hendrickson. For the Baltimore Ravens, tight end Mark Andrews faces a pivotal contract year following a disappointing playoff showing, with speculation that 2025 may be his final season in Baltimore as the team leans on Isaiah Likely as his potential successor. Additionally, Ravens linebacker Trenton Simpson is considered their biggest X-factor, tasked with proving himself a reliable starter after a challenging 2024 season where he struggled in multiple facets of defense. Both Andrews and Simpson carry significant pressure to bounce back and contribute meaningfully to Baltimore's hopes of maintaining their status as a top defensive team in the league. These players' performances in 2025 could have major implications for their teams' success and future roster decisions.