Trenton Simpson figures to be an important part of the Baltimore Ravens’ defense during the upcoming season, as the former Clemson star is poised to take over a starting linebacker job.

As a rookie with the Ravens last season, Simpson saw limited defensive snaps but made the most of his opportunities on defense while making his mark as a special teams piece as well. Now, entering 2024 – after the departure of former Raven and current Pittsburgh Steeler Patrick Queen – Simpson is expected to be the new starting inside linebacker alongside Roquan Smith.

Not only is Simpson stepping into a new role in 2024, but he’ll also be sporting a new jersey number this season.

After wearing No. 30 as a rookie, Simpson has switched to No. 23, and he explained during a recent media availability that the number change is in honor of his mother.

“So my mother actually wore 23 in softball and basketball,” Simpson said, “and I’ve got a great relationship with my mother – very tight, and that’s something that’s a connection between me and her.”

Another thing that’s different for Simpson this year is the fact he’ll have a certain former Clemson teammate playing alongside him in a Ravens uniform.

Of course, that is cornerback Nate Wiggins, who was selected by Baltimore in the first round (30th overall pick) of this year’s draft.

Simpson and Wiggins played together with the Tigers for two seasons from 2021-22, and the relationship they formed as members of Clemson’s defense should only grow stronger now that they’re reunited as teammates in the NFL.

“It was cool because I’ve seen him come in Clemson as a freshman. I was going into my sophomore year,” said Simpson, who was drafted by the Ravens in the third round (86th overall pick) of last year’s draft following his third and final season at Clemson in 2022.

“So, just being back with my college brother, it’s going to be awesome. I’m excited to see him grow as I’m growing. Just that off-the-field relationship and being on the field, we’ve already had that bond since Clemson, so just taking it to another level with the Ravens now.”

Having witnessed the type of player that Wiggins is firsthand, Simpson was asked what people can expect to see from Wiggins at the NFL level.

Simpson answered that question with two words – “high effort” – and pointed to the remarkable play Wiggins made with his forced fumble against North Carolina last November, when he reached 22.1 mph to chase down UNC’s Omarion Hampton from 64 yards downfield to force a fumble at the goal line.

“One play that goes back to mind with me is that play against North Carolina, him running and punching the ball out. That’s him as a player,” Simpson said. “I got a chance to play with him for two years and witness that every day in practice. He’s super competitive, so I’m super excited. When I saw we drafted him, I’m like, that’s the right fit. He’s a hardworking guy, high energy, and y’all are going to love him.”

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