Roquan Smith has high expectations for Ravens' Patrick Queen replacement

Former Ravens linebacker Patrick Queen switched sides this offseason, signing a three-year deal with AFC North rival Pittsburgh Steelers.

Queen's departure leaves a big hole to fill on Baltimore's defense after totaling 250 tackles, 8.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, three fumble recoveries, three interceptions and 12 passes defensed the past two seasons.

However, All-Pro linebacker Roquan Smith believes the Ravens already have Queen's replacement on the roster in Trenton Simpson, their third-round pick from a year ago.

"He has all the potential in the world," Smith told reporters. "It's just gonna be about putting that on the field week in and week out and just trusting his ability. If he does that, I think he'll be the best second-year linebacker in the league."

Saying Simpson will be the best second-year linebacker in the NFL could be a stretch, with Lions first-rounder Jack Campbell, Broncos' Drew Sanders and Chargers' Daiyan Henley among those in last year's draft class set up for bigger roles in 2024.

Simpson will be set up for success next to Smith in Baltimore's defense, which allowed the fewest points per game (16.5) in the league last season.

He flashed his potential in the 2023 regular season finale as the Ravens sat their starters. Simpson took full advantage of the opportunity, registering seven tackles (two for a loss) and a sack.

That performance alone won't win him the starting job next to Smith, but he certainly flashed his potential, which is why many like Smith are excited about what his second season will bring.

Baltimore still has a lot of time to make the decision. So, for now, Smith is solely focused on removing Queen's presence from the Ravens facility.

"Life happens, and he's somewhere else right now. I got to tear his picture down in the linebacker room," Smith added. "I'm happy for him. I'm wishing him all the best, and it'll be good to see him twice a year. He's still my guy, but war is war."