Ravens OC Declan Doyle Expects Full Voluntary Attendance, Eyes Lamar Jackson’s Growth

New Ravens Offensive Coordinator Expects Full Player Participation in Voluntary OTAs

OWINGS MILLS, Md. – As the Baltimore Ravens prepare for the 2026 season under new offensive leadership, expectations are being set for player engagement during the offseason program. Newly appointed offensive coordinator Declan Doyle has expressed his hope for full attendance from the team’s players during voluntary organized team activities (OTAs), signaling a desire to build a collaborative foundation as he develops an offense around quarterback Lamar Jackson. The Ravens’ preseason program is slated to begin on April 6, with on-field workouts following in May, according to statements made by both Doyle and head coach Jesse Minter on Wednesday.

Doyle’s arrival in Baltimore marks a new chapter for the Ravens’ offense, and his emphasis on participation underscores the importance he places on establishing a strong working relationship with his players from the outset. Even as acknowledging the voluntary nature of the OTAs, Doyle articulated a clear connection between commitment to the offseason program and the team’s aspirations for championship success. This comes as the Ravens navigate contract negotiations with their star quarterback, Lamar Jackson, with the team aiming to finalize a new deal before the start of free agency in mid-March, as reported by multiple sources.

Building Around Lamar Jackson

Doyle’s primary task is to construct an offense that maximizes the considerable talents of Lamar Jackson, the two-time NFL Most Valuable Player. The coach has already begun conversations with Jackson, including an hour-long video call during the interview process and subsequent visits, and has been impressed by the quarterback’s willingness to learn and improve. Doyle believes Jackson possesses untapped potential, specifically in refining his pre-snap reads and footwork within the system. He noted that Jackson’s ability to improvise and develop game-changing plays is a significant asset, comparing it to the dynamic play of Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams during Doyle’s time as offensive coordinator with the Bears in 2025.

“He’s a growth-minded kid; he’s played at a remarkably high level and he still wants to keep working and feels like he can get better,” Doyle said during Wednesday’s press conference. “So the rest of the coaching staff and I are very excited to work with him to achieve this.”

This marks Doyle’s first opportunity to serve as a primary play-caller, having previously held the offensive coordinator position with the Chicago Bears, where Ben Johnson ultimately called the plays. The Ravens’ front office is also focused on managing Jackson’s $74.5 million salary cap hit, the second-highest in the NFL, and a new contract could influence his participation in the voluntary workouts. Jackson, currently 29 years old, has consistently ranked among the league’s top dual-threat quarterbacks, boasting a career-high passer rating of 102.2 and holding the NFL record for most rushing yards by a quarterback with 6,522 yards.

Voluntary Participation and Championship Aspirations

The concept of “voluntary” participation in NFL OTAs is a nuanced one. While players are not contractually obligated to attend, the coaching staff clearly views full participation as a critical component of building team chemistry and implementing a new offensive scheme. Doyle’s comments reflect a belief that a commitment to the offseason program is indicative of a championship mindset. He emphasized that achieving championship standards requires dedication, collaboration, and the establishment of strong relationships between coaches and players.

Historically, Lamar Jackson has not been a consistent participant in voluntary workouts. Last spring, he attended only eight of nine on-field workouts, a pattern that has drawn scrutiny from analysts and fans alike. Whether his approach will change under the new offensive regime remains to be seen, but Doyle’s public encouragement suggests a desire for increased engagement. The Ravens, coming off a season where offensive consistency proved elusive at times, are hoping that a fresh start and a collaborative environment will lead to improved performance in 2026.

Declan Doyle’s Background and Transition to Baltimore

Declan Doyle brings a wealth of experience to the Ravens’ sideline, having served as the offensive coordinator for the Chicago Bears in 2025. Prior to his time in Chicago, Doyle honed his coaching skills at various levels, developing a reputation for innovative offensive strategies and a commitment to player development. Jamison Hensley, ESPN’s Baltimore Ravens reporter since 2013, has been closely following Doyle’s arrival and the potential impact he will have on the team’s offensive identity. Hensley has covered the Ravens for both of their Super Bowl seasons, chronicling the careers of Ray Lewis, Jonathan Ogden, and Joe Flacco.

Doyle’s vision for the Ravens’ offense centers on unlocking Jackson’s full potential and creating a system that allows him to thrive. He believes that by focusing on consistency in the foundational elements of each play, the offense can maximize its efficiency and capitalize on Jackson’s exceptional improvisational skills. The challenge will be to strike a balance between structured play-calling and allowing Jackson the freedom to utilize his unique athleticism and playmaking ability.

Looking Ahead

The coming weeks will be crucial for the Ravens as they navigate the complexities of the offseason and prepare for the 2026 campaign. The resolution of Lamar Jackson’s contract situation will undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping the team’s trajectory. The start of the voluntary OTAs on April 6 will provide the first opportunity to assess the level of player engagement and the progress of the new offensive system. Fans and analysts will be closely watching to witness how Doyle’s vision unfolds and whether the Ravens can build upon their existing foundation to contend for a Super Bowl title.

The next key date for the Ravens is mid-March, when the team aims to finalize a new contract with Lamar Jackson before the start of free agency. Continued updates on the contract negotiations and player participation in OTAs will be available on ESPN’s Baltimore Ravens blog and through reports from Jamison Hensley.

What are your thoughts on the Ravens’ new offensive coordinator and the team’s prospects for the 2026 season? Share your opinions in the comments below, and be sure to share this article with fellow football fans.