“‘Rock the baby’ [if you get a pick-six],” was the one request Marlon Humphrey’s family had for him. Stuck between practice sessions, and running home for the birth of his first baby, a boy Duke, the cornerback succeeded in making the night his own on Saturday. He secured an unforgettable moment in Raven’s history, recording his career-first pick six in their 34-17 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers. But the night held an even sweeter touch when Coach John Harbaugh presented him with something special. But before we get to the meat of the story…

For his major professional achievement, early in the fourth quarter in Week 16, the $97.5 million cornerback intercepted Steelers QB Russell Wilson, translating it into a 37-yard touchdown—the first defensive TD for the Ravens this season—clinching Baltimore’s playoff berth in style. “It was cool to get a pick-six,” Humphrey said post-game. “But clinching a spot in the playoffs to beat the Steelers, I’m just happy that the guys came in, put in the work, and we just took care of business.” His smile said it all as the pick-six marked a personal and professional milestone. Humphrey’s teammates also rallied around him.

Linebacker Roquan Smith said, “Marlo’s interception came at a very pivotal moment to whereas it was definitely shifting, and when we got that, it was a huge play.” Lamar Jackson praised the team effort post-game: “I feel like we’ve been busting our behind all season long, had ups and downs throughout this whole season, but to clinch a playoff against a great team like that, that’s great.” The celebration in the locker room echoed the sentiment. Family and football were intertwined in the most heartwarming way, which was further intensified by Harbaugh’s ode…

There was a special gift awaiting the 28-year-old. The game ball—not just for the play but for his newborn son, Duke. And this wasn’t your typical locker room celebration. As per Sportscaster Sarah Ellison shared on X on December 21, “John Harbaugh said the Marlon Humphrey, who notched a pick-six, had a baby this week. Harbaugh gave Marlon and his new baby son a game ball in the locker room after the game.”

Ironically, ever NFL ball already has “The Duke” printed on it. Notably, the moniker came into being as an honor to Wellington Mara—a former New York Giants owner, and one of the most influential figures in NFL history.

As a young lad, Mara often served as the Giants’ ball boy when his father, Tim Mara, was the Giants owner. A constant presence on the sidelines, he was soon nicknamed ‘Duke’ by players and other insiders. The league originally adopted its “The Duke” nickname in the 1940s, before it was removed after the AFL-NFL merger in 1970. However, after Wellington Mara’s passing in 2005, the nickname was reinstated again. But, whatever be the case, for Humphrey’s little son, he’s always going to be a part of history, thanks to Harbaugh.

Humphrey’s week had been an emotional rollercoaster. The sleepless nights welcoming his son didn’t stop him from delivering the game-sealing interception return against the Steelers. “There’s a lot of great things that happened this week. It was a lot. I was just trying not to pass out or anything. I was trying to make the moment about her and the baby. I was just head down. The baby came out. I didn’t even really see it. I’m a little wheezy and I’ve never pushed past the wheezy and I didn’t think that was the day. So it was a lot. But I’m thankful. God is good,” the player had said later. Even his teammates seemed ecstatic at Humphrey’s two-way achievement.

Fellow cornerback Brandon Stephens said, “Having a child, bringing a baby into this world, I think we all felt like it was due for him.” However, the most adorable wish came from the team’s linebacker Kyle Van Noy. “Hopefully, we see the ball next to the baby and see a nice photo,” he said with heartwarming optimism.

As the dust settled, it was clear Harbaugh’s gesture had resonated deeply. It wasn’t just about stats or the scoreline; it was about recognizing the humanity behind the helmet.

Marlon Humphrey’s career-defining pick-six

Humphrey’s pick-six was timely, yes. But it was also transformative. With Baltimore clinging to a 24-17 lead, the Steelers seemed poised to strike. But Humphrey, reading Russell Wilson like a book, jumped the route and raced 37 yards to the end zone.

“I felt that this team has had our number over the years,” Humphrey admitted. “Just take care of business, man. I felt like the performance we put on wasn’t perfect, but I felt like that’s what we were supposed to do.” For a cornerback with 19 interceptions but no prior pick-sixes, the play felt like fate rewarding his persistence, and the timing couldn’t have been better.

Jackson had just thrown his fourth interception of the season. A pretty rare blemish in an otherwise stellar campaign. And Humphrey’s play not only cushioned the lead but also quashed any hopes of a Steelers comeback. The game also highlighted Humphrey’s importance to a Ravens defense that has consistently delivered under pressure. Humphrey’s performance capped a standout season where he’s been a key figure in Baltimore’s defense. And the impressive performance this season is backed by his stellar contract.

Marlon Humphrey’s deal places him places him as the second-highest paid cornerback in the league. Lamar Jackson’s team made a significant investment in the 28-year-old with a five-year, $98.75 million extension (average annual value of $19.75 million). The investment is certainly paying off now.

And this pick-six may well define the Ravens’ push for postseason glory with the AFC North still up for grabs. For now, though, it’s a moment to savor. For the player, his family, and a locker room united in celebration.