Former Ravens LB Patrick Queen Bids Farewell; Endorses Trenton Simpson As Replacement
As is often the case in the NFL, a player's time eventually comes to a close with the team that once drafted them.
That is the case for former Baltimore Ravens linebacker Patrick Queen, as he agreed to a three-year $41 million contract to join their AFC North rival, the Pittsburgh Steelers. Despite leaving the franchise for their fiercest rival, Queen made it clear there are no hard feelings as he bid farewell on X to the franchise that drafted him in the first round in 2020.
Patrick Queen.
USA Today Sports
"As I reflect on my time with the Ravens, my heart swells with gratitude. Baltimore, you embraced me from day one and the energy you brought to every game was incredible," Queen wrote on X. "The memories we created together will forever hold a special place in my heart. The cheers echoing through M&T [Bank] Stadium, the unwavering support in victories and defeats. You, the fans, are the heartbeat of this team. While my journey has led me elsewhere, thank you for supporting me over the past four years. I'll always cherish the time spent representing this remarkable city and its incredible fans."
Queen was a key cog in a Ravens defense who led the league in sacks (60), was tied for first in turnovers (31) and allowed the fewest points per game. He made the second-team All-Pro and the Pro Bowl last season, as he had a career-high 133 tackles, including nine for a loss, six quarterback hits, 3.5 sacks, six passes defended, one interception and one forced fumble.
The former Ravens linebacker also thanked his teammates for his experience with them, which included a run to the AFC Championship Game last season.
"To my incredible teammates, you are the heart of my Ravens experience," Queen wrote. "Together, we wrote history on the field and created experiences that will last forever. The camaraderie, the sacrifices and the victories, they all bind us together through the collection of shared moments and achievements."
With Queen gone, second-year linebacker Trenton Simpson appears likely to take his spot next to Roquan Smith. Simpson played the most of his career in Week 17 against the Steelers last season and had seven tackles, including two for loss and a quarterback hit.
Queen spoke highly of Simpson and believes he's more than capable of being a good linebacker.
"Give him time to gel in with the league," Queen wrote. "[He's going to] be that guy."
Simpson was drafted in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft likely with Queen's departure in mind. Even with Baltimore bracing for that possibility, replacing a linebacker of Queen's caliber is a tall task for whoever starts in his place next season.
