AFC North Division Faces Challenges Amidst Early Season Struggles

The AFC North division is encountering significant challenges as the 2025 NFL season progresses. The Baltimore Ravens, once division champions, are grappling with a 1-4 record, matching their worst start in franchise history. This downturn follows a promising 2024 season where they clinched the AFC North title with a 35-10 victory over the Cleveland Browns.

In that decisive game, quarterback Lamar Jackson threw two touchdown passes and surpassed 4,000 passing yards for the season, while running back Derrick Henry added 138 rushing yards and two touchdowns. However, the Ravens' current season has been marred by injuries, particularly on defense, with key players like Marlon Humphrey, Chidobe Awuzie, Kyle Hamilton, and Roquan Smith sidelined. This has resulted in the team ranking last in the NFL in scoring defense, allowing 35.4 points per game.

Head coach John Harbaugh has dismissed the idea of making staff changes, emphasizing the need for unity and collective improvement. He expressed disappointment in the team's performance, stating that players underperformed despite being capable. The Ravens now face the Los Angeles Rams before entering a Week 7 bye, aiming to regroup and address their defensive shortcomings.

The Cleveland Browns, on the other hand, are also facing difficulties. In their most recent game, they suffered a 21-17 loss to the Minnesota Vikings, dropping their record to 1-4. The Browns have been dealing with quarterback issues, with Bailey Zappe, their 40th starting quarterback since re-entering the NFL, completing 16 of 31 passes for 170 yards and one touchdown but also throwing two interceptions in the loss to the Ravens.

The Pittsburgh Steelers have managed to maintain a competitive edge, holding a 3-2 record. Their most recent victory was an 18-16 win over the Ravens, where kicker Chris Boswell contributed six field goals. However, the Steelers have also faced challenges, including injuries to key defensive players. The Cincinnati Bengals, currently 2-3, are struggling without quarterback Joe Burrow, who is expected to miss a minimum of three months due to toe surgery.

As the season progresses, the AFC North division remains highly competitive, with each team striving to overcome early-season setbacks. The Ravens and Browns are particularly focused on addressing their defensive issues and quarterback situations, respectively, while the Steelers and Bengals aim to capitalize on their current standings to secure a playoff berth.