What's Happening?
Declan Doyle, the new offensive coordinator for the Baltimore Ravens, is contemplating whether to call plays from the sideline or the coaches' booth during the upcoming 2026 NFL season. This decision emerged as a topic of interest following the Ravens'
third OTA practice session open to the media. Doyle, who previously worked under Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson, is familiar with both approaches and plans to experiment with each during the preseason. The sideline offers direct communication with players and an immediate feel for the game's emotional flow, while the booth provides a broader perspective on defensive alignments and coverage rotations. Doyle's decision is crucial as he prepares to lead one of the NFL's most dynamic offenses, featuring quarterback Lamar Jackson.
Why It's Important?
The decision on where Declan Doyle will call plays from is significant for the Ravens' offensive strategy. As a first-year offensive coordinator, Doyle's choice could impact the effectiveness of his communication and decision-making during games. The Ravens are aiming for another championship run, and Doyle's ability to optimize his play-calling environment could influence the team's performance. His experience with different communication and organizational approaches under a respected offensive mind in Chicago adds depth to his decision-making process. The outcome of this decision could set a precedent for how new coordinators approach game-day management in the NFL.
What's Next?
Doyle will use the upcoming OTAs and training camp to test both play-calling locations. This period will allow him to determine where he feels most comfortable and effective. The Ravens' coaching staff and players will likely provide feedback during this experimental phase, which could influence Doyle's final decision. As the regular season approaches, the Ravens will need to finalize their game-day strategies, including Doyle's positioning, to ensure a cohesive and efficient offensive operation.
