Ravens Deny Rumors of Dean Pees’ Return: Ex-Falcons Coach Not Joining Baltimore Staff
In a surprising turn of events, the Baltimore Ravens have officially dispelled rumors suggesting that former Atlanta Falcons defensive coordinator Dean Pees would be rejoining the team. Despite growing speculation in NFL circles, a Ravens spokesperson confirmed that Pees is not in talks to join Baltimore’s coaching staff for the 2024 season.
The rumors began circulating after Pees, who previously spent four seasons with the Ravens from 2012 to 2017 as their defensive coordinator, was reportedly spotted visiting the team’s facilities. Pees had previously announced his retirement from coaching following the 2021 season after a two-year stint with the Falcons, where he oversaw a faltering defense. However, his apparent return to the public eye sparked immediate speculation about a potential reunion with his former team.
The news first emerged when multiple NFL insiders reported that Pees was seen meeting withÂ
Despite the excitement, the Ravens have moved swiftly to shut down these claims. “We appreciate the contributions Dean made during his time here, and we respect his coaching career, but he is not joining the staff for the 2024 season,” said the Ravens’ spokesperson in a statement.
Pees, for his part, has not made a public comment since the rumors arose, though his recent retirement and desire to step away from the pressure of coaching has been well-documented. Many around the NFL had believed that the 73-year-old defensive mind would remain in retirement, especially after stepping down from the Falcons’ position, citing health concerns and the personal toll of the coaching life.
The speculation around Pees’ potential return comes at a crucial time for the Ravens, who are looking to strengthen their defensive unit. After a somewhat inconsistent 2023 season, where the team’s defense ranked mid-tier in the league, head coach John Harbaugh has been under pressure to make improvements. The absence of Pees could mean the Ravens will continue their search for a more experienced voice to guide their defense in 2024, but it now seems the coaching staff will remain as is.
While the idea of reuniting with Pees would have brought a wealth of experience to the Ravens’ defensive room, it appears that the team will look to other candidates to fill that gap. As they prepare for another season of Super Bowl aspirations, the Ravens will now focus on bolstering their coaching staff and developing the next generation of defensive talent. The team has also reportedly been considering external hires to enhance their defensive schemes as they look to return to the top of the AFC North in 2024.
For fans and insiders alike, Pees’ legacy remains a topic of reverence in Baltimore, and while the reunion remains unlikely, his influence on the Ravens’ defense is a reminder of the championship caliber mindset that defined his tenure.
