The Baltimore Ravens appear to have landed former Arizona Cardinals safety Tony Jefferson. One of the top options in free agency, the move is a huge get for general manager Ozzie Newsome and the Ravens and it should mean a lot for the defense and especially the secondary. But the signing has wide-reaching ramifications that can change Baltimore’s standing.

First, Jefferson’s signing likely ends Lardarius Webb’s time with the Ravens. The eight-year veteran has been a major player for Baltimore’s defense, but with various injuries and a clear slowing down, Webb transitioned from cornerback in 2016 to preserve his roster spot. Though he performed well last season, Jefferson is an immediate upgrade in talent, youth and size.

While the details of Jefferson’s deal aren’t known at this time, releasing Webb will free up an estimated $5.5 million in cap space. Adding that type of space while upgrading a position is a huge deal in the NFL and something Baltimore should be happy about.

Outside of pure money, Jefferson’s signing should improve the Ravens’ defense. Jefferson amassed 96 tackles, two sacks, five passes defended and two forced fumbles in 2016 alone, beating Webb in nearly every category while playing in one less game. But it isn’t just the stat sheet where Baltimore’s secondary will improve, but in the swagger department as well.

Jefferson brings a certain attitude with him that reminds me of the Ravens’ 2000s defenses. Hard hitting, proud and willing to share all of that on the field at the drop of a hat, Jefferson’s enforcer-type role should make opposing wide receivers think twice about catching passes in traffic. When you have that type of player policing the secondary, it tends to lead to bigger plays around them and an overall better defensive output.

If there has been one thing Baltimore has been missing since their Super Bowl trip, it has been that type of hard-hitting swagger. That’s why this move makes sense in all the right ways.