QB Lamar Jackson compares teammate to Ravens legend

The Ravens defense is off to a stellar start, allowing the third-least total yards per game (260.8) and points per game (14.5) in the league. QB Lamar Jackson credits one of his teammates who he believes is the second coming of a Baltimore legend.

"I think our defense allows like 13 points or something like that. That's the effect [Roquan Smith] has," Jackson told reporters. "He's like a Ray Lewis for us."

It's a bold statement by Jackson but the sixth-year linebacker is off to an incredible start to his career with 737 tackles, 20 sacks, one forced fumble and eight interceptions.

However, he still has a long way to go until he statistically compares to Lewis, who finished his 17-year career with 2,050 tackles, 41.5 sacks, 19 forced fumbles and 31 interceptions. The two-time Super Bowl champion and NFL Defensive Player of the Year was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2018.

For now, Smith is only focused on becoming a Raven in 2023, which he believes he couldn't do until this week.

"I remember last year: You're not a Raven until you beat the Steelers. So, I carry that over into this year, Smith said. "I'm not a Raven this season until I beat the Steelers. ... I take pride in being a Raven. So, I want to make sure I earn that right as well."

Baltimore heads to Pittsburgh in Week 5 in a game where the winner will take the lead in the AFC North, and Smith will likely play a large role in the outcome.

The last six matchups between the Ravens and Steelers have been decided by five or fewer points, but Baltimore has only won one of the meetings. The team will need Smith to be a difference maker just like Lewis was for many years.