From 2016 through 2019, then again from 2022 through 2024, the Baltimore Ravens were spoiled by Michael Pierce’s play in the middle of the defensive line.

Between 2016 and 2019, and again from 2022 to 2024, Michael Pierce was a key presence in the heart of the Baltimore Ravens’ defensive line. The Samford alum served as a reliable anchor during his time with the team before announcing his retirement earlier this month at age 32.

Now, general manager Eric DeCosta and the Ravens believe they’ve identified Pierce’s successor at nose tackle: 12-year NFL veteran John Jenkins, whose signing the team officially announced Friday on X.

John Jenkins brings a wealth of experience to the Ravens, having played in 150 NFL games across six different teams—including two separate stints with both the Bears and Dolphins. To say he’s had a journeyman career would be putting it mildly.

Originally selected by the New Orleans Saints in the third round (82nd overall) of the 2013 NFL Draft out of Georgia, Jenkins spent his first four seasons with the team. He then signed a one-year deal with the Seattle Seahawks in 2016 before joining the Chicago Bears for the 2017 and 2018 seasons.

In 2018 and 2019, Jenkins was with the New York Giants but was released during final roster cuts ahead of the regular season. Just days later, he was picked up by the Miami Dolphins.

Jenkins returned to Chicago in 2020 and then to Miami for the 2021 and 2022 campaigns. Ahead of the 2023 season, he signed with the Las Vegas Raiders, starting all 17 games and posting career highs in multiple categories, including 61 tackles. He also notched his first career fumble return for a touchdown in a 63–21 blowout win over the Los Angeles Chargers.

Over his career, Jenkins has started 64 games, tallying 319 total tackles (140 solo, 15 for loss), 4.5 sacks, 10 passes defended, one forced fumble, and two fumble recoveries.