Ranking Ravens’ Top Roster Needs as Free Agency Begins
As the Baltimore Ravens prepare for the upcoming free agency, they have already made significant moves to enhance their roster. A pivotal trade with the Las Vegas Raiders secured edge rusher Maxx Crosby, marking the Ravens’ first major acquisition after a prolonged period of inactivity. General manager Eric DeCosta is determined to address the team’s needs, particularly following a season that exposed several holes in the roster.
Ravens’ Top Roster Needs as Free Agency Begins
With Crosby now on board, the Ravens have other pressing roster requirements to address before the onset of free agency. They currently have 18 unrestricted free agents, one restricted free agent, and four exclusive rights free agents. Prior to securing Crosby and re-signing backup quarterback Tyler Huntley to a two-year deal, the team had around $19 million in salary-cap space. This will not be sufficient for their extensive roster needs.
1. Offensive Line
- Under Contract: Ronnie Stanley, Roger Rosengarten, Andrew Vorhees
- Possible Departures: Tyler Linderbaum (UFA), Daniel Faalele (UFA)
Linderbaum, a three-time Pro Bowler, is highly sought after and may leave if the Ravens do not finalize a deal soon. They might need to seek out free agents or draft a center if he departs.
2. Defensive Line
- Under Contract: Nnamdi Madubuike, Travis Jones
- Possible Departures: Brent Urban (UFA), Taven Bryan (UFA)
The status of Madubuike, recovering from a season-ending injury, is uncertain. Depending on his recovery, the Ravens may have to add two starters to the defensive line.
3. Cornerback
- Under Contract: Marlon Humphrey, Nate Wiggins
- Possible Departures: Chidobe Awuzie (UFA)
Humphrey, facing a challenging season, has one of the largest cap numbers on the team. The Ravens may look to restructure his deal to free up space.
4. Tight End/Fullback
- Under Contract: Mark Andrews, Lucas Scott
- Possible Departures: Isaiah Likely (UFA)
The future of Likely is uncertain, and the team may explore additional tight end options if they cannot re-sign him or Kolar.
5. Wide Receiver
- Under Contract: Zay Flowers, Rashod Bateman
- Possible Departures: DeAndre Hopkins (UFA)
Baltimore will likely target a veteran receiver during free agency while evaluating the performance of their current players.
6. Safety
- Under Contract: Kyle Hamilton, Malaki Starks
- Possible Departures: Alohi Gilman (UFA)
The Ravens could focus on retaining their current safeties, possibly even bringing back Tony Jefferson as a veteran presence.
7. Edge Rusher/Outside Linebacker
- Under Contract: Maxx Crosby, Tavius Robinson
- Possible Departures: Kyle Van Noy (UFA)
Crosby’s addition reduces the necessity for more edge rushers, though depth in this position remains a priority.
8. Inside Linebacker
- Under Contract: Roquan Smith, Teddye Buchanan
- Possible Departures: Jake Hummel (UFA)
With several bigger needs on the horizon, focusing on linebacker depth may occur later in the draft.
9. Running Back
- Under Contract: Derrick Henry, Justice Hill
- Possible Departures: Keaton Mitchell (RFA)
Decisions regarding Hill and Mitchell will be critical as the team navigates their salary cap constraints.
10. Specialists
- Under Contract: Tyler Loop (K), Nick Moore (LS)
- Possible Departures: Jordan Stout (P, UFA)
The Ravens may need to introduce competition for their specialists, especially as Stout’s performance drew attention last season.
11. Quarterback
- Under Contract: Lamar Jackson, Tyler Huntley
The focus remains on potentially extending Jackson’s contract to facilitate other roster improvements.
As the legal tampering window opens, the Ravens will have to make strategic decisions to solidify their roster and enhance competitiveness for the upcoming season.
