Jason Pierre-Paul Jan 23, 2022; Tampa, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers outside linebacker Jason Pierre-Paul (90) celebrates after a fumble recovery during the second half against the Los Angeles Rams in a NFC Divisional playoff football game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Pendleton-USA TODAY Sports

It has been rumored for days that three-time Pro Bowler Jason-Pierre Paul could make a return to the NFL and now it has finally happened. The Baltimore Ravens announced Thursday that they have signed the former Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New York Giants star.

Pierre-Paul confirmed his signing via text Thursday afternoon. “I’m joining the #Ravens as of today,” he told NFL insider Josina Anderson.

The 12-year pro struggled last year with the Bucs because of injuries and, as a result, he only had 2.5 sacks.

After the Ravens’ defense was torched by the Miami Dolphins and quarterback Tua Tagovailoa on Sunday, it didn’t come as a shock that the team would make this move. The Ravens needed someone on that defensive line to put more pressure on the quarterback and Pierre-Paul may be just what they needed.

He may have had a down year last year, but in 2020, the defensive end had 9.5 sacks, which followed a year in which he garnered 8.5 sacks. If he is truly healthy again, this could be a huge pick-up for the Ravens.

Most NFL fans were excited to see this signing and what it could mean.

But not everybody was excited about Pierre Paul’s signing.

You can’t win them all but after last week’s performance, the Ravens had to do something to sure up their defense.

{Josina Anderson}

About Stacey Mickles

Stacey is a 1995 graduate of the University of Alabama who has previously worked for other publications such as Sportskeeda and Saturday Down South.