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[Baltimore Ravens]

Ravens DT Michael Pierce announces retirement after 9 seasons

Photo by Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images

After nine seasons in the NFL between the Ravens and Vikings, Michael Pierce is calling it a career.

On Wednesday morning while appearing on the Sports Spectrum podcast, Ravens defensive tackle Michael Pierce announced that he is retiring from the NFL after nine seasons.

Ravens NT Michael Pierce announces his retirement https://t.co/hn3DXccica

— Jeff Zrebiec (@jeffzrebiec) March 12, 2025​

The former undrafted free agent out of Wofford in 2016 spent seven seasons altogether (2016-2019, 2022-204) with the Ravens sandwiched around two seasons with the Vikings (2020-2021). As a member of the Ravens, Pierce had career totals of 218 tackles, 16 tackles for loss, 6.5 sacks, six pass breakups, two forced fumbles, six fumble recoveries, and one outstanding interception he recorded this past season.

Now THAT is how you go out in style!

Michael Pierce’s final regular season snap was an interception! pic.twitter.com/yXW6asxhtu

— Ryan Mink (@ryanmink) March 12, 2025​

In Pierce’s lone season with the Vikings (he opted out of 2020 for COVID reasons), he recorded 20 tackles, a single-season high three sacks, three tackles for loss, and a forced fumble.

While many wouldn’t consider Pierce to have been a “star” in the NFL, he was a fan favorite no matter where he played, made the locker room a better place, and will surely be missed by every single one of his teammates that had the chance to play with him these past nine seasons.

According to Russell Street Report’s Brian McFarland, the Ravens have to make a decision on Pierce’s process for retirement with regard to his contract.

“If they process Pierce’s retirement before 6/1, there will be a Cap savings of $666k with dead money of $2.001 million remaining on the Cap (nothing on 2026 Cap),” McFarland wrote. “If they wait until after 6/1, it will be a savings of $2 million in 2025 with dead money of $667k in 2025 and $1.334 million in 2026.”

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/2...michael-pierce-retirement-vikings-free-agency

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

Ravens sign QB Cooper Rush to 2-year deal

Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images

The Baltimore Ravens have found their new backup quarterback in former Dallas Cowboy Cooper Rush

According to multiple reports, the Baltimore Ravens have agreed to terms with quarterback Cooper Rush on a two-year, $6.2 million deal.

Rush, 31, becomes the Ravens’ new backup quarterback after a litany of quarterback signings occurred earlier in the week. The Ravens were known to be on the search for a backup quarterback, and find theirs in Rush, an eight-year NFL veteran.

In Rush’s time as a starter, all with the Dallas Cowboys, the Cowboys went 9-5, and Rush threw for 2,958 yards on 60.18% completion, including 18 touchdown passes to eight interceptions. He fumbled the ball 11 times, losing four of them.

From Bloggingtheboys.com’s Connor Livesay:

“Rush started a ton of games over the last few years filling in for an injured Dak Prescott. His most notable season came in 2022 where he started five games for the Cowboys, finishing with a 4-1 record and keeping the Cowboys alive for an eventual playoff berth.

Rush has proven to be one of the league’s most reliable backups over the course of his career, and despite his lack of play-making ability, has posted a 9-5 record in Dallas.”

Rush has proven capable of coming in when called upon and keeping a team afloat in the interim; if Jackson were to miss games with illness or injury, the Ravens can rely on Rush to keep them competitive, especially in an offense boasting running back Derrick Henry and their litany of receiving weapons.

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/2...2-year-deal-2025-nfl-free-agency-quarterbacks

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

Highlights from Ronnie Stanley’s re-signing press conference

Photo by Michael Owens/Getty Images

Ravens left tackle Ronnie Stanley’s press conference highlights after re-signing with the team.

On Monday, Baltimore Ravens left tackle Ronnie Stanley joined media via Zoom to talk about re-signing with the Ravens on a three-year, $60 million deal. Below are the highlights from the press conference.

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On why Stanley re-signed with the Ravens prior to reaching free agency with the speculation of an impending bidding war:

“I think it just goes back to the fact that they drafted me straight out of college. Took a chance on me. So, I’m always going to give them first dibs when it comes to things like that, out of respect.”

On if he was ever curious about going elsewhere:

“Yeah, I was very open to whatever was going to happen. I knew the cap situation we were in and how many players we need to pay — current and future with the younger guys. So, I knew it wasn’t going to be like a personal thing. So, going into it I was kind of open to what was going to happen. Ended up working for the best.”

On how important legacy is to him and playing in one place for his whole career:

“That’s a good question because that definitely gets brought up to me a lot, especially going into my tenth year and all of them are going to be in Baltimore. That’s something that, ever growing up — I never even — that wasn’t even like a goal of mine. That wasn’t something I ever thought about. But that being said, it actually happening, I’m realizing how rare of a thing that is and I think it’s a really cool thing to be able to spend ten years of my career plus with the same team that I got drafted with. I don’t know the percentages of things like that happening but I think that’s a really cool thing. I’m happy and appreciative that I could be one of those players that experience that.”

On if he kept in mind the Ravens’ cap situation and what they needed to do to build the roster as they were re-signing him:

“Yeah, that’s definitely something that crosses my mind but I don’t think that was the main driver for it all. I knew I was going to give Baltimore the best bargain that I would offer to any other team. But that being said I still wanted to be happy with what I’m making and make sure I’m getting the value that I feel like I deserve just from the job description and the things that go into what my job has to do. I think the deal was a good balance that could help the team and something I’m still happy with.”

On if there’s a feeling of unfinished business:

“For sure. I don’t think there’s — we’ve broken so many records the last however many years and I don’t think we care about it, to be honest. Especially the guys that have been here. I think the only thing we really care about is winning a Super Bowl. All that other stuff, for sure is nice and all, but yeah, definitely, unfinished business. I don’t think any one is really happy.”

On if re-signing with the Ravens was a factor with his relationship with Lamar [Jackson] and how the offense has been built around him and if he spoke to Jackson before or after re-signing:

“First of all, my decision to come back, I think the players for sure had the biggest role to do. The locker room and the type of players that we have, including Lamar. I was talking to Lamar a lot, but not about contracts. Me and Lamar, we talk all the time but he never really brings that stuff up. I never really brought that stuff up to him when he was going through his deal. I think we just talk more like brothers. We talked through the whole process, not once about contracts. But the players are definitely the biggest driver of why I like being in Baltimore.”

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/2...m-ronnie-stanleys-re-signing-press-conference

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

Ravens nab S Malaki Starks in Mel Kiper’s latest mock

Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images

The Ravens could instantly upgrade their pass defense by landing Georgia’s Malaki Starks, the top safety in the 2025 draft class.

With a strong defensive second level headed by linebacker Roquan Smith, the Ravens could feasibly find an impact player to either reinforce their front line or their secondary and both would likely be just as impactful as the other in their rookie seasons. A pass rusher would be a smart move with Kyle Van Noy getting further from 30, but adding a new defensive back would also go a long way in fixing the team’s struggling pass defense from this past season.

In a new mock from the great Mel Kiper, the draft godfather has the Ravens in line to land Georgia safety Malaki Starks with 27th-overall pick.

Here’s what he had to say about the pick:

“I’ve mentioned the big-play woes for Baltimore’s defense in the past, and the team didn’t really do anything to fix them in free agency. It allowed 58 plays for 20 or more yards this past season, third most in the NFL, and Baltimore hasn’t added a defensive back. But Starks has the skill set to thrive alongside Kyle Hamilton from the back end. Starks closes well to break up passes and stop the run, and he can be used over the slot, if necessary.”

“I actually have Starks ranked slightly ahead of Nick Emmanwori as the top safety in the class, even though the Ravens get Starks nine picks after Emmanwori was selected in this scenario.”

As things stand, Ar’Darius Washington is in line to start next to Kyle Hamilton on the back end after the former logged 10 starts in 17 games played during the 2024 season. However, if the team decides that is an area they still wish to upgrade, they could do a whole lot worse than the draft’s top safety.

The 6’1, 197-pound Starks has three years of starting experience for one of the best teams in college football. He’s a high-processing safety with elite awareness of his surroundings and that helps him have some of the best deep-ball tracking in the class.

Per NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein, Starks is also very consistent in run support. While he’s not someone who you’ll see laying the wood more often than not, he’s a sticky, wrap-up tackler who doesn’t let players escape once he gets hands on.

Malaki Starks is still firmly a top-20 player in the class for me. Let him go back to playing deep safety, covering the deep half, and watch him thrive at the next level. pic.twitter.com/T2VhXz4b7m

— William Herman (@_williamherman) March 14, 2025​

Overall, Starks is seemingly a very high-floor prospect that should be ready to walk into a NFL defense from day one and hit the ground running. South Carolina’s Nick Emmanwori may also be an intriguing player to land in Baltimore, but his skillset as a sizable safety seems a bit redundant with Hamilton already on the team. Still, if the Ravens end up wanting to draft a new defensive back high, either a corner or safety, they should have some options around their draft slot this year.

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/2025/3/18/24388563/ravens-malaki-starks-mock-draft-mel-kipers-nfl

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

NFL rule change to eliminate automatic first downs on illegal contact, defensive holding; Would it benefit the Ravens?

Photo by B51/Mark Brown/Getty Images

The Detroit Lions are proposing an NFL rule change to eliminate automatic first downs on illegal contact and defensive holding penalties. How would that impact the Baltimore Ravens?

The NFL’s Annual League Meeting will occur at the end of March and prior to the Owners sitting down, NFL rule change proposals have been submitted and released.

Among the most significant is the suggested change by the Detroit Lions, which would “eliminate an automatic first down as a penalty imposed for defensive holding and illegal contact.”

The change would make the penalty five yards and (assumedly) a replay of the down if the five-yard infraction does not surpass the first-down marker.

A response from Warren Sharp pointed toward the Lions wanting the change as they commit both infractions more than any other team. The Ravens weren’t much further down the rankings, tying for fifth-most infractions. With such a volume of infractions, it’s worth seeing how impactful the automatic first-down element is both against the Ravens and as beneficiaries.

NOTE: Below are only the infractions which occur on defense, are accepted and not offsetting. All stats are pulled from Pro Football Reference boxscores of the 2024 season.

Illegal Contact Infractions & Results​

Week 3 @ Dallas Cowboys

Location, Down & Distance: DAL40, 2nd & 15
Penalized: Nate Wiggins
Result of Play: Incompletion to Brandin Cooks
Extended Drive Length: 5 plays
Extended Drive Yardage: 22 yards
Result of Drive: Turnover on Downs | Incompletion on 4th & 14

Week 3 @ Dallas Cowboys

Location, Down & Distance: DAL46, 3rd & 5
Penalized: Marcus Williams
Result of Play: Incompletion to Jake Ferguson
Extended Drive Length: 7 plays
Extended Drive Yardage: 49 yards

Result of Drive: Touchdown | Dak Prescott completion KaVontae Turpin, 16 yard TD

Week 9 vs. Denver Broncos

Location, Down & Distance: BAL44, 2nd & 10
Penalized: M. Humphrey
Result of Play: B. Nix pass incomplete for T. Franklin
Extended Drive Length: 9 plays
Extended Drive Yardage: 30 yards
Result of Drive: Turnover on downs | Incompletion on 4th & 14

RESULTS​

Three times the Ravens commit illegal contact and one drive resulted in a touchdown. However, if it was a five-yard infraction and not an automatic first down, the “what if” scenario still gives the Cowboys the touchdown, seeing as the infraction occurred on a 3rd & 5.

However, this is not a black-or-white scenario. The impact of these includes time of possession, extra plays on defense, etc. Nonetheless, strictly speaking on the scoreboard, no impact is made.

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Defensive Holding Infractions & Results​

Week 3 @ Dallas Cowboys

Location, Down & Distance: DAL16, 2nd & 9
Penalized: Odafe Oweh
Result of Play: Incompletion to Brandin Cooks
Extended Drive Length: 7 plays
Extended Drive Yardage: 12 yards
Result of Drive: Punt | Bryan Anger punts 56 yards, Deonte Harty return 13 yards

Week 3 @ Dallas Cowboys

Location, Down & Distance: DAL45, 3rd & 6
Penalized: Nate Wiggins
Result of Play: D. Prescott pass incomplete intended for C. Lamb (defended by M. Humphrey)
Extended Drive Length: 4 plays
Extended Drive Yardage: 2 yards
Result of Drive: Punt | B. Anger punts 37 yards, fair catch D. Harty

Week 7 @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Location, Down & Distance: TB35, 2nd & 5
Penalized: Bump Cooper Jr.
Result of Play: B. Mayfield sacked 0 yards by Tavius Robinson
Extended Drive Length: 10 plays
Extended Drive Yardage: 62 yards
Result of Drive: B. Mayfield intercepted by M. Humphrey in end zone, touchback

Week 9 vs. Denver Broncos

Location, Down & Distance: BAL12, 2nd & 6
Penalized: M. Humphrey
Result of Play: B. Nix scrambles 7 yds., first down
Extended Drive Length: 4 plays
Extended Drive Yardage: -13 yards
Result of Drive: Turnover on downs | Incompletion on 4th & 14

Week 10 vs. Cincinnati Bengals

Location, Down & Distance: BAL2, 4th & 2
Penalized: B. Stephens
Result of Play: Joe Burrow pass incomplete to Andrei Iosivas
Extended Drive Length: 1 play
Extended Drive Yardage: 1 yards
Result of Drive: Touchdown | Chase Brown rushes for 1 yard, TD

Week 11 @ Pittsburgh Steelers

Location, Down & Distance: BAL19, 1st & 10
Penalized: N. Wiggins
Result of Play: R. Wilson scrambles 0 yds.
Extended Drive Length: 4 plays
Extended Drive Yardage: 5 yards
Result of Drive: Field goal | C. Boswell 32 yard field goal good

Week 12 vs. Philadelphia Eagles

Location, Down & Distance: PHI33, 2nd & 6
Penalized: Trenton Simpson
Result of Play: J. Hurts pass complete to S. Barkley, no gain
Extended Drive Length: 6 plays
Extended Drive Yardage: 62 yards
Result of Drive: Touchdown | S. Barkley 25-yard rushing TD

Week 14 @ New York Giants

Location, Down & Distance: NYG43, 3rd & 4
Penalized: M. Humphrey
Result of Play: T. DeVito pass incomplete to M. Nabers
Extended Drive Length: 9 plays
Extended Drive Yardage: 57 yards
Result of Drive: Touchdown | D. Singletary 2-yard rushing TD

Week 17 vs. Cleveland Browns

Location, Down & Distance: BAL18, 2nd & 10
Penalized: Travis Jones
Result of Play: D’Onta Foreman rush 3 yards
Extended Drive Length: 4 plays
Extended Drive Yardage: 13 yards
Result of Drive: Field goal | D. Hopkins 23-yard field goal good

RESULTS​

Nine times, the Ravens’ defense commit defensive holding. Of those, three drives resulted in touchdowns and two resulted in field goals.

Most significant impact goes to Week 10 vs. Bengals. On 4th & 2, Stephens was called for a defensive holding. It was a highly questionable call as wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase was actively pushing off Stephens on multiple occasions.

Refs throw a flag for holding on the Ravens on a Bengals 4th down and give the Bengals a fresh set of downs. #CINvsBAL pic.twitter.com/K0MZ4lrmJi

— Rate the Refs (@Rate_the_Refs) November 8, 2024​

This resulted in a first down. It’s unknown in the “what-if” scenario if the Bengals would go for a field goal if the play was run again from the 1-yard line or if they go for it. But, the impact of the automatic first down was directly impactful on the drive as the Bengals could attempt to punch it in with Chase Brown on first down. If not, they still had multiple more attempts to score a touchdown.

The second touchdown listed is Saquon Barkley’s touchdown. Had the infraction not given a first down, it would’ve been 2nd & 1 with a replay of down. It’s unlikely the Ravens’ defense shuts down the Eagles’ offense in such scenario, but a fresh set of downs impacts the game.

The third touchdown occurs via a 3rd & 4 infraction, therefore a five-yard penalty grants a first-down marker. No impact.

Both drives resulting in field goals would’ve been equally as challenging with the new rules. Steelers face a 1st & 5 and the Browns face a 2nd & 5.

Overall, the Ravens were minorly punished by the automatic first-down inclusion of the rules, namely Week 10 vs. Bengals. However, the majority of their inflictions from the penalty was the five-yard penalty than the automatic first-down rule.

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As Beneficiaries of the Automatic First-Down Rule​

While the Ravens weren’t significantly punished by the automatic first-down rule, it’s worth viewing if they were beneficiaries.

Ravens as Beneficiaries of Illegal Contact & Results​

Not once did the Ravens’ opponents commit illegal contact on defense, according to Pro Football Reference.

Ravens as Beneficiaries of Defensive Holding​

Week 2 vs. Las Vegas Raiders

Location, Down & Distance: BAL28, 2nd & 6
Penalized: Jack Jones
Result of Play: L. Jackson sacked by R. Spillane for no gain
Extended Drive Length: 8 plays
Extended Drive Yardage: 67 yards
Result of Drive: Touchdown | Derrick Henry 3-yard rushing TD

Week 4 vs. Buffalo Bills

Location, Down & Distance: BUF5, 2nd & 5
Penalized: Rasul Douglas
Result of Play: L. Jackson pass incomplete to R. Bateman
Extended Drive Length: 2 plays
Extended Drive Yardage: 2 yards
Result of Drive: Touchdown | D. Henry no gain, fumbles, recovered by P. Ricard in end zone, TD

Week 6 vs. Washington Commanders

Location, Down & Distance: BAL27, 1st & 15
Penalized: Noah Igbinoghene
Result of Play: L. Jackson pass incomplete to R. Bateman
Extended Drive Length: 9 plays
Extended Drive Yardage: 68 yards
Result of Drive: Touchdown | L. Jackson pass complete to M. Andrews, 13-yard TD

Week 7 @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Location, Down & Distance: BAL45, 1st & 10
Penalized: Greg Gaines
Result of Play: D. Henry 8-yard rush
Extended Drive Length: 3 plays
Extended Drive Yardage: 47 yards
Result of Drive: Touchdown | L. Jackson to R. Bateman for 49-yard touchdown

Week 9 vs. Denver Broncos

Location, Down & Distance: DEN24, 1st & 10
Penalized: Patrick Surtain II
Result of Play: L. Jackson pass incomplete
Extended Drive Length: 4 plays
Extended Drive Yardage: -5 yards
Result of Drive: Field Goal | J. Tucker 33-yard FG good

Week 9 vs. Denver Broncos

Location, Down & Distance: BAL42, 1st & 10
Penalized: Riley Moss
Result of Play: L. Jackson pass incomplete
Extended Drive Length: 1 play
Extended Drive Yardage: 53 yards
Result of Drive: Touchdown | L. Jackson pass complete to Z. Flowers for 53-yard TD

Week 11 @ Pittsburgh Steelers

Location, Down & Distance: BAL20, 1st & 10
Penalized: Patrick Queen
Result of Play: L. Jackson sacked for 0 yards by I. Loudermilk
Extended Drive Length: 6 plays
Extended Drive Yardage: 75 yards
Result of Drive: Touchdown | D. Henry 1-yard rush TD

Week 13 vs. Philadelphia Eagles

Location, Down & Distance: BAL38, 3rd & 5
Penalized: Avonte Maddox
Result of Play: L. Jackson sacked by J. Sweat for 0 yards
Extended Drive Length: 5 plays
Extended Drive Yardage: 46 yards
Result of Drive: Field Goal | J. Tucker 34 yard FG good

Week 13 vs. Philadelphia Eagles

Location, Down & Distance: BAL13, 3rd & 2
Penalized: Cooper DeJean
Result of Play: D. Henry 5-yard rush
Extended Drive Length: 5 plays
Extended Drive Yardage: 16 yards
Result of Drive: Punt | J. Stout punts 42 yards, B. Covey 10-yard return

WC vs. Pittsburgh Steelers

Location, Down & Distance: BAL36, 2nd & 13
Penalized: Joey Porter Jr.
Result of Play: L. Jackson scrambles 20 yards
Extended Drive Length: 5 plays
Extended Drive Yardage: 44 yards
Result of Drive: Touchdown | D. Henry 8-yard rush TD

WC vs. Pittsburgh Steelers

Location, Down & Distance: PIT40, 2nd & 7
Penalized: Joey Porter Jr.
Result of Play: L. Jackson complete to M. Andrews, 6 yards
Extended Drive Length: 6 plays
Extended Drive Yardage: 21 yards
Result of Drive: Kneel | End of Game

RESULTS​

On 11 occasions, Ravens’ opponents commit defensive holding infractions. Of those, seven times the Ravens scored a touchdown and twice they went on to score a field goal.

• Against the Raiders, they would’ve faced a 2nd & 1. The impact of the drive is unlikely to be felt from the automatic first down as the Ravens boasted the NFL’s best rushing attack.
• The second touchdown has no impact from the automatic first-down rule as the infraction occurred on 2nd & 5. The first-down marker is reached with the penalty yardage.
• The third touchdown against the Commanders is likely unimpeded due to the automatic first-down rule. The Ravens were facing a 1st & 15. Either way, they face a 1st & 10 with or without automatic first-down.
• The fourth touchdown against the Buccaneers is likely unimpeded due to the automatic first-down rule. The Ravens gained eight yards on the play and the penalty yardage added would reach the first-down marker.
• The fifth touchdown against the Broncos is likely unimpeded due to the automatic first-down rule. The Ravens would’ve faced a 1st & 5. The Ravens scored a 53-yard touchdown the next play and did so from the same down and field distance. But added the benefit of the yardage.
• The sixth touchdown against the Steelers is likely unimpeded due to the automatic first-down rule. The Ravens would’ve faced a 1st & 5 as the infraction occurred on 1st & 10.
• The seventh touchdown against the Steelers in the Wild Card Round is impacted by the automatic first-down rule. With the infraction occurring on 2nd & 13, the Ravens were granted a benefit on both down and distance rather than facing a 2nd & 7.

Overall, the results of these infractions when the Ravens are beneficiaries are not impacted by the automatic first-down rule. Only once in seven occurrences did they greatly benefit.

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/2...st-downs-on-illegal-contact-defensive-holding

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

Ravens rank No. 1 in multiple post-free agency NFL Power Rankings

Photo by G Fiume/Getty Images

The Ravens are Pro Football Focus’ top-ranked team after free agency.

The first week of free agency has concluded and following the moves made, Pro Football Focus and Pro Football Network have both placed the Baltimore Ravens as the No. 1 team in the NFL in their respective power rankings.

PFF’s Mason Cameron: “After falling short of capitalizing on a historic season from Lamar Jackson, the Ravens made two critical moves—retaining talent and addressing a glaring offensive hole. They re-signed Ronnie Stanley, the top pending free-agent tackle, and added veteran wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins to bolster the passing attack. With a strong defensive foundation and an offense led by the highest-graded quarterback and running back tandem in the NFL, Baltimore is positioned to take the next step in the postseason.”

PFN’s Kyle Soppe: “PFSN’s QB+ metric projected Lamar Jackson to repeat as MVP last season. While he ultimately didn’t win the award, he remains one of the most impactful quarterbacks in the league. In his first season with Derrick Henry, Jackson led an offense that paced the league in yards per play — and by a wide margin. The Baltimore Ravens were 9.7% better per play than any other team. They moved to sustain that success by re-signing Ronnie Stanley and Patrick Ricard while adding DeAndre Hopkins to an already potent offense. Jackson was backed by the eighth-ranked defense, which peaked down the stretch. If that unit can build on its late-season success, there’s no reason to think this team won’t be playing in February.”

Not everybody was willing to place the Ravens atop their rankings list, multiple others still find the Ravens as a Top 3 team.

NFL.com’s Eric Edholm: “The Ravens were already an offseason winner for me when they retained left tackle Ronnie Stanley. I’m not quite as enamored with Stanley as others are, but there’s no doubting his value to this team — and the replacement options weren’t great. The DeAndre Hopkins signing was a nice little surprise, even if the 32-year-old is going to have some quiet games these days. Even the Cooper Rush signing was a smart addition, giving the team one of the stronger backups in the NFL and another layer of insurance after Lamar Jackson. Most of the band is back together, and the Ravens should be right up there among the elites in the league. It was a bit curious that they didn’t tender Ar’Darius Washington at the second-round level. He played a pretty big role for them at safety last season, and the right-of-first-refusal tender at least opens the possibility of another team giving him an offer sheet. We’ll see.”

USA Today’s Nate Davis: “By and large, the AFC North champs are running it back in 2025 – and why not? Two-time league MVP Lamar Jackson somehow seems to consistently improve year over year and now has DeAndre Hopkins as his No. 3 wideout. The Ravens looked like the best team in the league for periods of time last season, and who knows what happens if TE Mark Andrews doesn’t drop that would-be two-point conversion in the playoff loss at Buffalo? Yet a team that lost twice to last-place clubs in 2024 remains too prone to self-sabotage.”

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/2...-multiple-post-free-agency-nfl-power-rankings

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

Ravens compensatory pick projections after first wave of free agency

Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The Ravens, per usual, have a few projected compensatory selection for 2026 after multiple players departed in free agency.

Since the creation of the NFL’s compensatory draft pick program, the Baltimore Ravens have drafted 60 players to recuperate value from their lost free agents. In the 2025 NFL draft, they may add four more (if the compensatory picks are not traded), as they received a fourth-, fifth- and two sixth-round compensatory picks. And setting the stage for the 2026 NFL Draft, the Ravens are projected another three.

Originally, it was uncertain if they’d be at two or three, depending upon offensive lineman Josh Jones. With the contract details now released on overthecap.com, Nick Korte projects the Ravens may nab a third pick for the time being.

Looks like Josh Jones got enough ($4M) to qualify as a compensatory free agent.

That adds a 7th round 2026 comp pick on the board to the Ravens.https://t.co/KrYaCltGf5

— Nick Korte (@nickkorte) March 21, 2025​

According to Korte’s projections, the Ravens are in line to receive two fifth-round compensatory picks and a seventh-round compensatory pick for the losses of cornerback Brandon Stephens, offensive lineman Patrick Mekari and Jones.

The Ravens have a strong affinity for compensatory picks; according to Korte in his time projecting compensatory picks, he notes the Ravens are “Definitely the most mindful” of making decisions to not impact their potential additions to the formula by signing players — or doing so with contracts that limit the impact.

Most recently, the Ravens did so by signing backup quarterback Cooper Rush to a deal that had his Annual Percentage Yield marginally under the threshold to avoid losing a potential fifth- or seventh-round compensatory pick.

And we got our answer promptly from @jeffzrebiec.

$3.1M APY should be right at that perfect place where Cooper Rush won't qualify as a compensatory free agent unless he has to play most of the season.https://t.co/27RSKJNEVf

— Nick Korte (@nickkorte) March 16, 2025​

Compensatory picks have become a true avenue for the Ravens to further build and develop NFL players to keep them affording their high-end talent and recuperating value when their players depart. And throughout the franchise’s history, they’ve added notable NFL starters.

Notable Ravens Compensatory Picks

• 1999: OL Edwin Mulitalo
• 2005: QB Derek Anderson
• 2006: P Sam Koch
• 2007: FB Le’Ron McClain
• 2008: S Haruki Nakamura
• 2011: OLB Pernell McPhee
• 2013: C Ryan Jensen
• 2013: OT Ricky Wagner
• 2013: FB Kyle Juszczyk
• 2014: DE Brent Urban
• 2015: TE Nick Boyle
• 2018: C Bradley Bozeman
• 2020: LB Malik Harrison
• 2022: TE Isaiah Likely

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/2...k-projections-after-first-wave-of-free-agency

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

Lamar Jackson to make acting debut in ‘Power Book III: Raising Kanan’

The Ravens’ star quarterback will be entering the Hollywood scene as he debuts in “Power Book III: Raising Kanan”

Lamar Jackson is must-see television during the NFL season. Now, in the NFL offseason, he hopes to earn the same title as he’s set to debut a potential acting career on the Starz series, “Power Book III: Raising Kanan.”

View this post on Instagram​

A post shared by Lamar Jackson (@new_era8)​

“I’m so excited for fans to see me in this new role and thrilled to be a part of ‘Power Book III: Raising Kanan,’” Jackson wrote on social media. “My character, E-Tone is a deadly, dangerous character- you don’t want to get on his bad side!”

Jackson has been a fan of the hit series, praising the show on social media and floated the idea of joining the show.

Raising Kanan so Gas️
I wanna be in a few episodes

— Lamar Jackson (@Lj_era8) December 9, 2023​

After Jackson’s announcement, executive producer of the series and and Grammy Award winning rap artist “50 Cent” expressed his excitement for Jackson to join debut.

Yes I’m turning it up notch! Lamar Jackson tonight in Raising Kanan we sucker free! @Lj_era8 BOOM https://t.co/jnbpt4Vpb3 pic.twitter.com/UQ9wU8hduZ

— 50cent (@50cent) March 21, 2025​

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/2...-acting-debut-in-power-book-iii-raising-kanan

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

Which position is now the Ravens’ greatest need?

Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images

After the initial wave of free agency, where should the Ravens look to improve most?

The initial wave of free agency has passed and the Ravens are in good standing, according to multiple media members and lists as their roster is ranked Top 3 by numerous outlets. But while they’re among the NFL’s elite, there are always more additions to be made and areas to improve.

According to The Athletic’s Derrick Klassen, the Ravens’ most pressing need is pass rusher.

““For as miraculous as Kyle Van Noy getting over 20 sacks over the past two years is, I don’t know if relying on that every year is a great way to go about things,” Klassen said on “The Athletic Football Show.”

Meanwhile, co-host Robert Mays points toward the Ravens’ secondary.

“In my mind, corner is a very big need for them. You could also make an argument that it’s safety if they want to play Kyle Hamilton at nickel,” Mays said. “Either way, they need another defensive back because as it currently stands if Hamilton is playing safety, then T.J. Tampa, who they drafted in the fourth round last year, would be their other outside corner.”

Today’s Question of the Day is:

Which position is now the Ravens’ greatest need?​

My answer: Pass rusher.

The best defense is one that can win with four rushers. It was proven in the Super Bowl as the Philadelphia Eagles dismantled the Kansas City Chiefs’ offense, and it’s been that way as long as football has been played. And while the Ravens have a pair of good pass rushers in Kyle Van Noy and Odafe Oweh, they need more juice.

Van Noy will be 34 years old by this month’s end. And though he’s managed to post back-to-back career bests in single-season sacks and earning his first Pro Bowl in 2024, the Ravens need more. Relying upon Van Noy and Oweh is risky business. If either were to go down, they’d be hoping more than anything else that a depth rusher can simply “figure it out.”

I find cornerback to still be a need, but not so desperately as edge rusher. The Ravens have two starting cornerbacks in Marlon Humphrey and Nate Wiggins. They have a few young players with potential. I anticipate the Ravens to add depth in the form of a veteran signing and a draft pick coming soon. But edge rusher is where they need more.

What do you think was the Ravens’ best coaching hire of 2025? Scroll down to the comment section and let us know!

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/2...hich-position-is-now-the-ravens-greatest-need

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

What do the Ravens need to match the success of the Chiefs, Eagles?

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What is needed by the Ravens to make it to the Super Bowl?

Almost six weeks ago, the Philadelphia Eagles defeated the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LIX, 40-22. The Baltimore Ravens were hopeful and projected to be a contender to make the Super Bowl, but were ousted in the Divisional Round against the Buffalo Bills three weeks prior in a 27-25 loss.

Today’s Question of the Day is:

What do the Ravens need to match the success of the Chiefs, Eagles?

My answer: Ceasing turnovers, generating takeaways.

The Ravens are three remedies from true contention. First, and most importantly, is ceasing turnovers on offense.

The Ravens have the offensive firepower to go toe-to-toe with the best of them. They’ve proved it in-season repeatedly. And in their playoff games this season against the Pittsburgh Steelers and Buffalo Bills, they scored 25 or more points. But they’ve become the mistake-prone in the playoffs.

Lamar Jackson lost possession twice, once with an interception on a miscommunication with wide receiver Rashod Bateman that regardless appeared to be an overthrow and a stripped/dropped ball in the backfield recovered by the Bills. Then, painfully, a third turnover came in the form of tight end Mark Andrews having the ball punched out. Their mistakes ultimately cost the season-ending loss.

Since 2018, the Ravens have appeared in nine playoff games. In that time, the offense has committed 16 turnovers. Only twice they’ve been turnover free.

This brings me to the second prong of generating turnovers. Over the same span, the Ravens have three takeaways; their last coming four playoff games ago in the 24-17 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals.

In nine high-stakes games, the Ravens defense has been superb, allowing an average of 19.2 points per game. They’ve held their opponents to an average of 254.5 total yards per game. But they’ve not grasped the critical element of winning games by generating takeaways.

Denying your opponents from scoring, giving the offense extra possessions to score or to further gain an advantage on time of possession all greatly benefit a team’s potential to win. They’ve failed to do so.

The issue is, there’s no simple fix. If it was, “they need better blocking” or “they have to improve their run defense” you could pursue players to improve in such areas. Instead, it’s something that’s a blend of chasing perfection and capitalizing on opponent’s errors. It’s not necessarily quantifiable — which is likely why there’s such frustration in the fanbase and visible from the players when it occurs. Take Lamar Jackson’s post-game press conference against the Bills, where he was upset and cursing because the mistakes are the difference, and simply “not making mistakes” isn’t something you can just add or subtract from the roster.

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/2...eed-to-match-the-success-of-the-chiefs-eagles

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

Which Raven in a contract year will have the biggest season in 2025?

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The Ravens have around a dozen players entering a contract season. Who will be the one to capitalize most?

Entering the 2025 NFL season, numerous Ravens have the opportunity to strike while the iron is hot. Such opportunity being performing at their best in a contract season.

We’ve seen it time and time again, players on rosters breaking out in their final season on a rookie deal or making an impact on a short-term “prove-it” contract and cashing in on their production. And for the 2025 season, around a dozen Ravens are eligible to make the leap.

Most recently for the Ravens, defensive tackle Nnamdi Madubuike was their contract-year breakout in 2023. After totaling 8.5 sacks in his first three seasons, Madubuike dominated the trenches for 13 sacks in the final year of his rookie contract. Before him was both Matt Judon (2019) and Za’Darius Smith (2018). The former was then franchise tagged while Smith signed a four-year, $66 million deal.

Contract Year Ravens​

1. OLB Odafe Oweh
2. OLB David Ojabo
3. OLB Kyle Van Noy
4. RB Derrick Henry
5. RB Keaton Mitchell
6. WR DeAndre Hopkins
7. WR Tylan Wallace
8. S Kyle Hamilton*
9. C Tyler Linderbaum*
10. DT Travis Jones
11. TE Isaiah Likely
12. TE Charlie Kolar
13. CB Jalyn Armour-Davis
14. P Jordan Stout
15. OL Daniel Faalele
16. LS Nick Moore
    *- Fifth-year option eligible (due May 1).

Today’s Question of the Day is:

Which Raven in a contract year will have the biggest season in 2025?​

My answer: Odafe Oweh, Travis Jones

It’s a two-part answer for me, and lets begin with Oweh.

After three seasons of inconsistency from the 2021 first-round pick, the Ravens saw significant development in their outside linebacker in 2024. He produced 10 sacks on the season after totaling 13 in his first three. His pressure numbers improved and he hit career bests in tackles, solo tackles, tackles for loss and quarterback hits.

Smartly, the Ravens picked up Oweh’s fifth-year option in April 2024, giving them one more year of Oweh on the roster. And now it’s on Oweh to prove it wasn’t a one-year burst. Looking at Oweh’s recent social media updates, he knows it, too.

#Ravens OLB Odafe Oweh with an offseason update…#RavensFlock pic.twitter.com/cUWsKoTe8f

— Brian Wacker (@brianwacker1) March 20, 2025​

As for Jones, he looks to be the player with the most opportunity ahead of him.

The Ravens are in need of defensive linemen. While Madubuike is on the roster, the Ravens need another wrecking ball along the interior. And, with defensive tackle Michael Pierce retiring two weeks ago, the Ravens need more from the likes of Jones and Broderick Washington.

Jones finished the regular season as one of the better defensive tackles in the NFL according to PFF. He ranked No. 22 for interior defensive lineman by overall grade, but No. 44 in pass rush grade. With attention on Madubuike and edge rushers Oweh and Van Noy, Jones is in prime position to deliver that all-too-familiar breakout season.

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/2...act-year-will-have-the-biggest-season-in-2025

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

Ravens sign CB Chidobe Awuzie to 1-year deal

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Chidobe Awuzie spent the 2024 season with the Titans after 3 seasons with the Bengals (2021-2023).

On Tuesday afternoon, the Baltimore Ravens announced the signing of cornerback Chidobe Awuzie to a one-year contract. According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the signing is a league-minimum deal.

We have agreed to terms with CB Chidobe Awuzie on a one-year contract! pic.twitter.com/enIi7BcHS6

— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) March 25, 2025​

Awuzie, 29, was most recently a member of the Tennessee Titans during the 2024 season where he had signed a three-year, $36 million deal. He started the team’s first three games but suffered a groin injury that landed him on injured reserve for most of the year. He returned in Week 14 against the Jaguars where he recorded his first interception with the Titans.

A former two-time Second-Team All-Pac-12 selection at Colorado, Awuzie entered the NFL as a second-round draft pick of the Cowboys in 2017. In four seasons with Dallas, Awuzie started 42 games while playing in 49 total. He recorded four interceptions and 37 pass breakups during that span.

From 2021-2023, Awuzie was a member of the Bengals, starting 32-of-37 games played, recording two interceptions and 25 pass breakups.

Awuzie now joins a cornerback room that features veteran Marlon Humphrey, Nate Wiggins, Jalyn Armour-Davis and T.J. Tampa.

Chidobe Awuzie is on the market after being released by the Titans. Last year wasn't his best season, but he's still a good zone corner that is a consistent tackler/run defender.

Wouldn't hate a reunion in Indy with Lou Anarumo pic.twitter.com/k2n4N2rGf2

— Zach Hicks (@ZachHicks2) March 16, 2025​

Adding another cornerback — and a veteran at that — was a big need for the Ravens. With the losses and releases of Brandon Stephens and Arthur Maulet, along with the expired contract for Tre’Davious White, the Ravens were and still are in need for cornerbacks.

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/2...-year-deal-2025-nfl-free-agency-signings-news

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

Ravens announce official 2025 NFL Draft party at M&T Bank Stadium

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April 24 Event to Feature Green Bay-themed Activations in Baltimore on First Night of NFL Draft

Official Press Release from the Baltimore Ravens

The Baltimore Ravens announced Tuesday the details of their annual Draft Party, coinciding with the first night of the 2025 NFL Draft (Thursday, April 24). The ticketed event will begin at 7:30 p.m. and take place on the Caesars Sportsbook Club Level of M&T Bank Stadium, where fans are invited to celebrate the newest addition to the franchise.

This year’s NFL Draft will occur in Green Bay, Wis., and in recognition of the city’s world-renowned production of cheese and brewing tradition, the Ravens’ Draft Party will emulate the rich culture and flavors of Green Bay in Baltimore. Activations for the evening include beer-tasting options from a selection of local and national brewers, concessions offerings inspired by Wisconsin tradition, and all fans will receive a Ravens Draft Party pint glass.

In addition to Green Bay-related features, fans can watch live coverage of the NFL Draft with expert analysis, view stage programming that features Ravens players and Legends, enjoy appearances by Ravens Cheerleaders, Mascot Poe, and Baltimore’s Marching Ravens, plus enjoy opportunities to receive giveaways, photo opportunities and autographs. Furthermore, one lucky fan will have the chance to win $100,000.

Tickets cost $25 and are available now at BaltimoreRavens.com/DraftParty and in the Ravens App, via Seat Geek. Parking is available in Lot N, with access to the stadium at Gate D.

For more information and to purchase tickets, fans can visit BaltimoreRavens.com/DraftParty.

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/2...cial-2025-nfl-draft-party-at-m-t-bank-stadium

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

Ravens to meet with William & Mary OT Charles Grant

Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images

Charles Grant has been a two-time Associated Press All-American for William & Mary and a four-year starter for the Tribe at left tackle.

The Ravens lost starting offensive guard Patrick Mekari this offseason as he signed a free-agent deal to join the Jacksonville Jaguars earlier this month. Now, Baltimore will need to at least replace one 2024 starter in hopes of continuing their incredible success on the ground.

In a recent interview with The Draft Network’s Justin Melo, former William & Mary offensive tackle Charles Grant noted that he has a “very busy schedule” over the next two weeks, which includes a Top-30 visit with the Ravens and a half dozen other teams.

.@WMTribeFootball OT Charles Grant is among the most intriguing talents in the 2025 NFL Draft. Teams LOVE his athleticism.

30 visits: Titans, Ravens, Texans, Raiders, Eagles, Falcons, Bengals.@CharlesGrant51 joins me on @TheDraftNetwork:https://t.co/JOUB1MhhWu

— Justin M (@JustinM_NFL) March 26, 2025​

Charles has starred for the Tribe over the past three seasons as a decorated starter at left tackle. After earning the job midway through the 2021 season, Grant went on to start every game at blindside protector from 2022-2024. Following the 2023 and 2024 campaigns, Grant was named Second-Team and First-Team Associated Press All-American, respectively.

At 6’5 and 311 pounds, Grant has excellent natural length with 34 3/4” arms and 10 1/4” hands. Per NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein, Grant has better technique than most Power 5 offensive tackles that are coming out in this year’s draft. At the same time, he’ll need to build his body a bit better to handle the rigors and power of NFL defenders. Grant wrestled in high school and you can notice some of his technique utilized in his blocking, but that won’t be enough when facing the best in the world.

Grant actually began playing football as a junior in high school and arrived at William & Mary weighing just 240 pounds. It’s been a fast few years for him but to be able to progress this much in such a short amount of time is very impressive.

Zierlein believes Grant has the opportunity to play either guard or tackle at the next level, which makes sense as to why the Ravens would be interested in meeting with him prior to the draft.

Needs to get stronger and more consistent with the hand placement, but you could make a highlight reel of backside cutoffs and climbs to the second level by William & Mary OT Charles Grant.

Easy moving athlete. pic.twitter.com/qbofLuenjz

— Jordan Reid (@Jordan_Reid) November 14, 2024​

How would you feel about adding a player like Grant to the Ravens? With his potential draft slot ranging from middle to late on day two, would you be content with the Ravens using a higher pick on an offensive lineman? Let us know all of your thoughts in the comments below!

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/2025/3/26/24394601/ravens-charles-grant-nfl-draft-william-mary

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

Ravens 2025 NFL Draft pick values and potential point trades

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What are the Ravens’ draft picks valued at?

In the 1990s, Hall of Fame Dallas Cowboys Head Coach Jimmy Johnson devised a value chart for the NFL Draft, assigning point values to all picks from No. 1 to Mr. Irrelevant. To this day its still in use, though discrepancies are attributed with it being 30+ years old.

But with its standard, we can calculate what the Ravens draft picks are valued at for the 2025 NFL Draft.

According to the Jimmy Johnson Chart, the Ravens have 1,269.8 points.

Ravens 2025 NFL Draft Picks & JJ Values​

• 1 — 27 (680)
• 2 — 59 (310)
• 3 — 91 (136)
• 4 — 129 (43)
• 4 — 136 (38)
• 5 — 176 (21)
• 6 — 183 (17.6)
• 6 — 203 (9.8)
• 6 — 210 (7)
• 6 — 212 (6.2)
• 7 — 243 (1)

The total value of the Ravens’ picks is just over what would be the No. 11 pick held by the San Francisco 49ers, at 1,250. Therefore, moving into the Top 10 is all but impossible by the chart standard.

However, it would be all but insanity for:

1. The Ravens to offer their entire draft class for a Top 10 pick
2. Ludicrous for a team like the New Orleans Saints (1,350) or New York Jets (1,500) to not accept gaining 11 draft picks.

So, rather than going the Ricky Williams trade route, what are some potential areas the Ravens could move?

NFL.com’s Chad Reuter in a recent mock draft suggested the following:

Ravens - Chiefs trade

Ravens send: R1 P27 (680), R4 P129 (43) | Total: 723
Chiefs send: R1 P31 (600), R3 P95 (120) | Total: 720
Value: Ravens -3 points

Strictly value, this is an equal trade. Three points are all but negligible.

However, not just in a point value vacuum, it’s a big benefit. They don’t lose the 80 points as they still have the player they want down further, and then add the boost from the later pick-swap. If anything, they then gain value.

Trade Up Option​

The Ravens boast eight Day 3 picks. And while those picks won’t help much jumping around on the first two nights of the draft, they will allow the Ravens to move up on Day 3 to select the players they’re most confident in.

The longest distance between picks for the Ravens comes after their second fourth-round pick (No. 136) and their fifth-round compensatory pick (No. 176). If they want to climb into mid-to-late fifth-round, they can utilize any of their four sixth-round selections.

Ravens - Cardinals trade

Ravens send: R5 P176 (21), R6 P203 (9.8) | Total 30.8
Cardinals send: R5 P152 (30.6) | Total: 30.6
Value: Ravens -0.2 points

This trade avoids the Ravens from witnessing a 40-pick run where they watch as the guys they like are picked. It gets them to pick 16 players after their last fourth-round pick and likely nabs the player they have interest in.

It’s likely the Cardinals want to trade the No. 152 pick as they only have one more pick in the draft following the selection. They only have a Round 7, No. 225 pick following the No. 152 pick. Gaining an extra draft pick and moving down — especially if the prospects aren’t who they’re interested in — would be beneficial.

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/2...s-nfl-draft-pick-values-potential-draft-value

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

Should the Ravens trade up or down in the first round of the NFL Draft?

Photo by Scott Winters/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

The Baltimore Ravens have enough capital to move up if they want, but would you prefer they move up or down?

Baltimore Ravens’ General Manager Eric DeCosta has been public about one of his favorite things about his position is the ability to make trades. His affinity for the chance to further benefit his team’s chances of success by his decision-making has been a key cog in the Ravens’ efforts since 2019.

In his six years as General Manager, the Ravens have made 27 trades; it’s fair to assume trades will be on the way in April during the 2025 NFL Draft.

On the first night, the Ravens are slated to pick No. 27 overall, a lengthy distance from when the Tennessee Titans are on the clock at 8 p.m. ET. This leads us to our question of the day.

Would you rather the Ravens trade up or down in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft?​

My answer: Trade Down

It’s all fun and exciting to trade up for a prospect. I appreciate it from both the fan perspective of, “DeCosta went and got their guy!” (and also the writing perspective of not waiting until midnight).

But realistically, the Ravens are more likely to trade down. And, I appreciate their efforts in doing so. I see the most likely scenario being a trade with the Kansas City Chiefs or Philadelphia Eagles. Getting a player at the end of Round 1 means they had a guy they liked and felt comfortable enough to let others pick for their need or prospect while ensuring they keep the fifth-round option available for said player and gaining draft capital for a move on Day 2 or 3.

As noted in a draft pick value and potential trade published earlier this week, the Ravens have 11 picks, but eight of them are on Day 3. Gaining more value to potentially move into Day 2 picks, or a more coveted pick on Day 3 would be the best move.

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/2...p-or-down-in-the-first-round-of-the-nfl-draft

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

ESPN analyst ranks Ravens’ offseason outside of Top 10 for NFL teams

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According to ESPN’s Benjamin Solak, the Baltimore Ravens’ offseason has been a good one, but not worthy of the Top 10 in the NFL.

By all accounts, the Baltimore Ravens’ offseason has been a successful one.

They managed to re-sign left tackle Ronnie Stanley, fullback Patrick Ricard, wide receiver Tylan Wallace and offensive lineman Ben Cleveland. They somehow managed to add outside talent, too, in DeAndre Hopkins, Chidobe Awuzie, Jake Hummel and backup quarterback Cooper Rush.

For a team on the cusp and cap-strapped, the Ravens’ offseason has been arguably one of the best. But for ESPN’s Benjamin Solak, he’s not as high on the moves, or believes other franchise’s have been more successful, ranking the Ravens No. 12.

“I loved: The Stanley extension. It was a very quiet free agency period overall for Baltimore — not a lot of money to spend, not a lot of starters with contracts expiring,” Solak wrote. “The most important item on the agenda was retaining Stanley, who bounced back from worrisome 2023 play with an excellent 2024 season. The Ravens signed Stanley before the legal tampering period began, securing his services for $20 million per year before a cash-rich team such as the Patriots could offer 125% of that. So long as Stanley stays healthy, he’s a set-it-and-forget-it blindside protector.”

Solak’s critique of the Ravens was adding Rush as their backup quarterback.

“I didn’t love: The Cooper Rush deal,” Solak wrote. “It’s not usually a big deal if the QB2 is very different stylistically than the QB1, but it feels meaningful in this case. No NFL offensive scheme is nearly as heliocentric as the Ravens’, and putting an immobile quarterback behind Jackson dramatically changes the playbook. Rush is a solid backup, and it’s not like a mobile QB2 could imitate Jackson. Nevertheless, this was weird to me.”

It’s been public knowledge the Ravens have wanted to upgrade their backup quarterback spot for awhile. The Athletic’s Jeff Zrebiec wrote about it back in 2023.

“It’s well-documented that the Ravens liked Mayfield coming out of the draft,” Zrebiec wrote. “He has a good relationship with [Lamar] Jackson and he’s close with [former Oklahoma teammate] tight end Mark Andrews. ...When the Ravens faced Mayfield and the Carolina Panthers in 2022, [Owner Steve] Bisciotti jogged to the Panthers’ side of the field to hug Mayfield in pregame warmups. I’m not sure I’ve seen that before with a player that hadn’t already played for the Ravens and had a previous relationship with the owner.”

Since Lamar Jackson became the starter, the Ravens have gone through a carousel of backups, including Tyler Huntley, Josh Johnson, Anthony Brown and Robert Griffin III. But the Ravens have wanted to upgrade such a position and have now done so, landing Rush.

Signing players with similar skillsets to Jackson has not proved fruitful. Nobody is like Jackson. And putting in players similar to Jackson to run plays with lower effectiveness hasn’t yielded positive results. So, adding Rush — a proven backup quarterback — is a good move.

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/2...ens-offseason-outside-of-top-10-for-nfl-teams

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

Ravens sign John Harbaugh to 3-year contract extension

Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images

Ravens head coach signs three-year extension

In a classic Ravens-style Friday news dump, the Baltimore Ravens announced a three-year contract extension for Head Coach John Harbaugh.

Re-signing Harbaugh keeps one of best coaches in the NFL with the Ravens. Since becoming the Ravens’ head coach in 2008, the Ravens have won the fourth-most games (172) in the NFL, behind the New England Patriots (179), Green Bay Packers (173) and Pittsburgh Steelers (173).

Signing Harbaugh was all but certain as he entered the final year of his contract and Ravens Owner Steve Bisciotti doesn’t put coaches in “lame-duck” scenarios with his coaches and coordinators.

Harbaugh was asked in the offseason about his contract status and displayed confidence and unworried.

“Those things take care of themselves,” Harbaugh said.

Recent criticism of Harbaugh has been spread over the past few seasons during the Lamar Jackson era in which the Ravens have struggled to reach the Super Bowl since the Ravens, with Harbaugh as head coach, won it all in February 2013.

As the Ravens enter the 2025 season, they’ll likely be among the NFL’s favorite’s, again, to be among the elite with a high chance to win it all.

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/2...gn-john-harbaugh-to-3-year-contract-extension

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

Ravens HC John Harbaugh not thinking about retirement after signing 3-year extension

Photo by Brooke Sutton/Getty Images

The Ravens’ long-time head coach has no interest in talking retirement or ending his coaching career.

On Friday, Baltimore Ravens Head Coach John Harbaugh and the team announced he has signed a three-year contract extension.

With Harbaugh being the second-longest tenured head coach in the NFL and being 62-years-old, he was asked during the NFL Owners Meetings on Monday how much longer he’s considering coaching for. Harbaugh, plainly, stated he has no interest in retiring any time soon.

“I’m happy to be alive! I hope that continues for awhile,” Harbaugh said. “Honestly, what [I’m] thinking about is how are we going to get better today? How can we get better? What do we need to do? Players, coaches, schemes. I mean, everybody thinks about it but it’s not really [at the] forefront of my mind. I just hope I make it there to make a decision at some point in time.”

Harbaugh said he’s not much spoken about the thoughts of retiring, but shared the same advice his father, Jack Harbaugh, gave to his younger brother Jim Harbaugh.

“I think my brother shared this recently,” John said. “[Jack told Jim], ‘You coach until you just can’t take it any more. There’s just no way you want to do it. You don’t even want to come to work any more. When you come to that point, you coach for two more years and then you move on.’ That’s dad’s advice.”

John’s coaching career has reached the 40-year mark after staring as a running backs coach at Western Michigan in 1984. Since becoming the Ravens’ head coach, Harbaugh has a career record of 185 wins to 115 losses (.617) and has won a Super Bowl championship and been named AP NFL Coach of the Year (2019).

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/2...out-retirement-after-signing-3-year-extension

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

Lamar Jackson contract extension talks confirmed by HC John Harbaugh

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The Baltimore Ravens have discussed internally about a Lamar Jackson contract extension.

On Monday, Baltimore Ravens Head Coach John Harbaugh confirmed the team has had internal conversations on a new deal for two-time NFL Most Valuable Player Lamar Jackson.

In 2023, Jackson signed the highest-paid deal in NFL history to the tune of a five-year, $260 million deal. However, the back half of the contract is rather loaded regarding the cap number, as the Ravens will face a $74.5 million cap hit in both 2026 and 2027.

The best way to mitigate the sizable cap hit would be to sign Jackson to a contract extension. The earlier the better, too, as seen by the Buffalo Bills re-signing Josh Allen to a contract extension earlier this offseason and avoiding paying a larger sum down the road.

According to Harbaugh, it’s been an internal topic of discussion.

“There’s been conversations about that internally I know. How far along that is or whatever, I don’t know, but definitely an obvious point that you’re making,” Harbaugh said. “That’s going to continue to have to be addressed really with all those guys. I mean, you just got to kind of manage that dance — the salary cap dance. Lamar is the main part of that because he’s the franchise player. So, that’s a possibility I think. Sooner or later, definitely it’s going to have to happen.”

Cap hits in 2026 become seismic in 2026 not just for the Ravens, but for numerous quarterbacks.

The highest cap hits in 2025 will be Dallas Cowboys’ Dak Prescott ($52.97 million) and Los Angeles Rams’ Matthew Stafford ($49.7 million). But next season, four of them eclipse $70 million.

1. Cleveland Browns’ Deshaun Watson — $81.7 million
2. Kansas City Chiefs’ Patrick Mahomes — $78.2 million
3. Cowboys’ Dak Prescott — $76.5 million
4. Lamar Jackson — $74.65 million

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/2...extension-talks-confirmed-by-hc-john-harbaugh