Ravens' Declan Doyle Receives Major Praise in OC Rankings

Baltimore Ravens offensive coordinator Declan Doyle received some big praise over the offseason, as quarterback Lamar Jackson called his plan "mind-blowing," while wide receiver Zay Flowers referred to the coach as a "genius."

While praise can only go so far, Doyle has showcased his talents by making the Ravens offense be very explosive through four games thus far. This has now led to the coordinator being ranked at the top among those who are new to their teams.

The Athletic ranked new offensive coordinators, which includes Doyle, Carolina Panthers' Brad Idzik, and more.

Doyle has received the top spot due to many factors, one of which is the ability to make sure that the "best player gets the ball," per Ted Nguyen.

"Additionally, Doyle passes the 'find ways to get your best player the ball' test with flying colors. Flowers leads the league in target rate (39 percent) and has blossomed into a true No. 1 receiver, but he could be without Jackson this week because of an ankle injury," Nguyen said.

Flowers has emerged as a true No. 1 receiver, even while battling a hamstring injury. He missed Week 2 due to the hamstring, but has been impressive in Weeks 1, 3, and 4. 

Flowers is ninth in the league with 352 yards, two touchdowns, and a fifth-best 19.6 yards per reception average. His 117.3 yards per game average is also at the top, if three games are counted among those with four or five games under their belt.

Simply put, Doyle has found a way to utilize Flowers to be highly impressive. The receiver has shown off his speed with huge catch-and-run plays, being used in designed runs, and also on go routes down the sideline.

On top of Flowers, quarterback Lamar Jackson has also benefited from Doyle's tutelage, as he is second in the league in EPA per dropback in play action.

Jackson has been impressive in his deep ball throws, and his ability to rush the ball again. The Ravens passer may miss Week 5 due to a sprained ankle, but he has been solid otherwise.

Doyle is being pegged as a head coach candidate in 2027, but he might also want to stick with the Ravens to build his resume even more. That might also be the case if he enjoys working with Jackson and can unlock another level in the quarterback.

Injuries aside, the Ravens remain a favorite to contend for a playoff spot, and Doyle is a big reason for that. If the offensive coordinator sees promise and a championship in 2026, or the chance to contend for the Super Bowl in 2027, he may remain in Baltimore.

The Ravens still have some work to do in terms of their defensive stops and penalties, but the offense is showing some big playmaking capabilities through the first four weeks of the season.