Since joining the NFL in 2017, Baltimore Ravens cornerback Marlon Humphrey has established himself as one of the league’s finest shutdown defenders, earning two First Team All-Pro selections and four Pro Bowl nods along the way. In the 2024 season, Humphrey achieved a personal best with six interceptions and added two forced fumbles, maintaining his status as a top-tier defender.
During a July 11 appearance on the ‘Herd w/ Colin Cowherd Show,’ Humphrey was asked to name the toughest quarterback he faced in the previous season. He emphatically named Cincinnati Bengals’ quarterback Joe Burrow, who recently signed a $275 million contract, as the most difficult signal-caller to defend.
“The toughest quarterback I faced last season would probably be Joe Burrow.” (08:05) Humphrey said.
Joe Burrow’s Remarkable Performance in the 2024 Season
Joe Burrow had an outstanding 2024 campaign, leading the NFL with 4,918 passing yards and 43 touchdowns while throwing just nine interceptions. His remarkable turnaround earned him the NFL Comeback Player of the Year award, along with a Pro Bowl selection. Burrow’s ability to consistently produce at such a high level clearly contributed to Humphrey’s recognition of him as the toughest quarterback faced last season.
Competition Heats Up for the AFC North Title in 2025
The battle for the AFC North crown in 2025 will primarily revolve around the Baltimore Ravens and Cincinnati Bengals. While the Pittsburgh Steelers and their new quarterback Aaron Rodgers might offer some surprise results, the Cleveland Browns are not expected to challenge for the division’s top spot.
The Ravens enter the season as strong favorites due to their well-rounded roster. With Lamar Jackson leading an offense that ranks among the best in the league and John Harbaugh directing a seasoned team, Baltimore’s defense, anchored by Humphrey, remains elite. This combination makes Baltimore a formidable contender for the division title.
By contrast, the Bengals boast an explosive offense with talented playmakers surrounding Burrow, yet their defense struggled in 2024 and ranks far below Baltimore’s. According to Bet365 odds, the Ravens hold a clear advantage to claim the AFC North at -150, followed by the Bengals at +230, with the Steelers and Browns trailing substantially behind.
Outlook and Impact for the 2025 Season
Marlon Humphrey’s recognition of Joe Burrow as the toughest quarterback he faced speaks volumes about the Bengals’ offensive prowess and the challenges that remain in defending against elite opponents. As the 2025 season unfolds, the AFC North promises intense matchups between two of the league’s top teams, each with distinct strengths and vulnerabilities.
The contest between Baltimore’s dominant defense and Cincinnati’s high-powered offense could determine not only the division champion but also shape the broader playoff landscape in the NFL. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see which team can maintain consistency and capitalize on their respective assets throughout the campaign.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Did Marlon Humphrey get fined?
A. Today, the league reported a $45,020 fine for Humphrey’s hit. The NFL labeled it “Unnecessary Roughness” due to the helmet use. The incident clearly showed the helmet-to-helmet contact the league aims to eliminate, and CBS highlighted it during the broadcast.
Q. Was Marlon Humphrey fined?
A. The NFL has penalized Ravens cornerback Marlon Humphrey $45,020 for unnecessary roughness, specifically using his helmet during a hit on Bills quarterback Josh Allen last week. Although the hit occurred, the referees did not throw a flag at the time.
Q. Did Marlon Humphrey get hurt?
A. Ravens cornerback Marlon Humphrey had an impressive performance, but his night was cut short due to a knee injury during “Monday Night Football” against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.