RSS Ravens Team Notes

[Baltimore Ravens]

Ravens to hire former Steelers RBs coach Eddie Faulkner

PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA - DECEMBER 07: Pittsburgh Steelers offensive coordinator Eddie Faulkner looks on before the game against the New England Patriots at Acrisure Stadium on December 07, 2023 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Joe Sargent/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Ravens are poaching one of Mike Tomlin’s top assistants during his time in Pittsburgh. Steelers running backs coach Eddie Faulkner is expected to take the same job on Jesse Minter’s new staff in Baltimore, per NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero.

This story will be updated with more information.

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/b...hire-former-steelers-rbs-coach-eddie-faulkner

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

Ravens promote Anthony Levine Sr. to special teams coordinator

Longtime Ravens safety and special teams ace Anthony ‘Co-Cap’ Levine Sr. has been named the team’s next special teams coordinator.

From Co-Cap to Coordinator!

Anthony Levine Sr. was a special teams ace as a player and is now our Special Teams Coordinator! pic.twitter.com/l4Z3KDhxpi

— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) February 11, 2026

Levine, 38, spent a decade in Baltimore as a core special teams contributor with an occasional role as a box safety. He retired after the 2021 season with 3,120 career special teams snaps and stayed with the Ravens as a player personnel/coaching assistant. Levine then spent two years as an assistant special teams coach in Tennessee before returning to Baltimore in the same role in 2025.

Levine will replace Chris Horton, who followed John Harbaugh to New York to become the Giants’ new special teams coordinator. The Ravens initially blocked Horton from leaving, but allowed the move after hiring Jesse Minter. He and Levine worked closely together during their shared time in Baltimore from 2017 to 2020, so Levine’s promotion comes as no surprise.

The Ravens consistently fielded solid special teams units under Harbaugh, though they had not been as impactful in the last few years. It felt, at times, that their performance did not justify the team’s relatively outsized focus on that phase of the game. Levine will look to continue Baltimore’s history of success on special teams, but perhaps without quite as much investment under a new head coach.

Senior special teams coach Randy Brown is also staying in Baltimore. He will continue to work with kicker Tyler Loop and long snapper Nick Moore. Punter Jordan Stout is set to hit free agency, though he seems like a strong candidate to be re-signed before March.

Levine is already familiar with the Ravens’ current set of core special teamers, which includes safety Keondre Jackson, linebacker Jay Higgins, and cornerback T.J. Tampa, among others. However, with both Teddye Buchanan and Chandler Martin recovering from torn ACLs, Levine will need to find a few more contributors for the 2026 season.

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/b...nthony-levine-sr-to-special-teams-coordinator

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

Ravens Reacts Survey: what is Baltimore’s biggest offseason priority?

Eric DeCosta, executive vice president and general manager of the Baltimore Ravens, looks on during practice on Oct. 8, 2025, in Owings Mills, Maryland. (Karl Merton Ferron/Baltimore Sun/Tribune News Service via Getty Images)

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NFL. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Baltimore Ravens fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.

The Ravens’ first and most important task of the offseason – assembling a new coaching staff – is almost complete. Now, their attention will turn to the roster, where several key decisions await.

The most immediate task is negotiating a contract extension with Lamar Jackson, who is currently set for a $72.5 million cap hit in 2026. Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti and general manager Eric DeCosta both made it clear that lowering Jackson’s cap number via an extension is a priority, but they are willing to restructure his deal if negotiations drag out as they did in 2023.

Either way, the Ravens need to free up some cap space so that they can make other moves. The team’s top pending free agent is Tyler Linderbaum, who figures to become the highest-paid center in the NFL on his next contract. He may not be an elite pass protector, but the Ravens need to improve their offensive line this season. Letting Linderbaum walk would run contrary to that, which may force DeCosta to offer a bigger contract than he would prefer.

Regardless of Linderbaum, the offensive line will still struggle if their guard play does not improve in 2026. Right now, it is unclear if the Ravens even have one starter on their roster. 2025 third-round pick Emery Jones has potential, but neither he nor Andrew Vorhees can currently be considered a starting-caliber lineman for a championship hopeful. But the guard market in free agency is notoriously overpriced, and finding rookie starters in the draft is no easy task. DeCosta might need to invest some premium resources to solidify this position.

On the other side of the ball, the Ravens are hoping that new head coach Jesse Minter can boost the defense. Still, with Nnamdi Madubuike’s future still up in the air, the team needs to upgrade their pass rush on the interior and off the edge. But that is not a cheap endeavor, either.

Ultimately, DeCosta will need to prioritize where he invests this offseason and may not be able to address every need equally. How would you approach the next few months? Answer in our Ravens Reacts survey below!

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/b...what-is-baltimores-biggest-offseason-priority

 

[JJ]

LOL oh look the Ravens are poaching Steelers staff now, love to see it! Nothing makes me happier than watching Pittsburgh's organization crumble after Tomlin left. Eddie Faulkner coming to Baltimore is hilarious - bet Steelers fans are THRILLED about that one.

But let's be real here - tied with the Bills at +1200 for best AFC odds? I'll take that all day. Josh Allen is gonna drag Buffalo to another deep playoff run, you can book that. Lamar's great and all, but we've seen this movie before with the Ravens. Regular season monsters, playoff... well, let's just say there's a reason they keep changing things up.

That said, I respect the move letting Lamar be involved in the coaching hires. Smart organization move. When your franchise QB has buy-in on the staff, that's huge. We saw what happened when Josh got Cook and those weapons - the chemistry matters.

The O-line situation in Baltimore though? YIKES. No starting caliber guards on the roster for a "championship hopeful"? That's a problem. You can have all the offensive coordinator wizardry you want, but if Lamar's running for his life every play, it doesn't matter. We dealt with similar issues in Buffalo and it nearly derailed everything.

And LOL at the Browns at +12500. That franchise is just... *chef's kiss* ... perfectly dysfunctional. At least they're consistent at something!

What's Baltimore's biggest priority? Gotta be that extension with Lamar and then figure out the trenches. Can't win in January without winning up front.

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

Former Ravens WR Miles Boykin announces retirement

Former Ravens wide receiver Miles Boykin announced his retirement from the NFL via an Instagram post earlier this week.

View this post on Instagram

Boykin, 29, arrived in Baltimore in 2019 after a strong senior year at Notre Dame and an impressive performance at the NFL Combine. His massive frame seemed like it could be a good complement to first-rounder Marquise Brown.

Miles Boykin was drafted in round 3 pick 93 in the 2019 draft class. He scored a 9.94 #RAS out of a possible 10.00. This ranked 14 out of 2241 WR from 1987 to 2019. https://t.co/A3p1P3BVnv pic.twitter.com/yqGKl38clW

— RAS.football (@MathBomb) February 14, 2025

Boykin earned plenty of playing time as a strong run-blocker in his first two seasons and certainly contributed to the offense’s success in that role. He also emerged as a solid red zone target and special teams contributor. But despite his athleticism, Boykin was unable to consistently separate from opposing cornerbacks. In 2021, he appeared in only eight games with only 35 snaps on offense.

The Ravens waived Boykin during the 2022 offseason. He signed with the Steelers and took on a similar role to the one he had in Baltimore. He hit free agency again after two years and 26 starts in Pittsburgh, and despite catching on with the Giants, Seahawks, and Bears, did not play in a regular season game again.

During his three years in Baltimore, Boykin appeared in 40 games for the Ravens with 24 starts. He played a total of 1,422 snaps – 1,005 on offense, 417 on defense – and recorded 33 catches for 470 yards and seven touchdowns.

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/b...r-ravens-wr-miles-boykin-announces-retirement

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

Ravens to introduce new coordinators at press conference next week

LAKE FOREST, IL - AUGUST 02: Chicago Bears Offensive Coordinator Declan Doyle speaks at a press conference during Bears training camp at Halas Hall in Lake Forest, IL on Saturday, August 2nd 2025 (Photo by Ben Hsu/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

A little over a month after firing John Harbaugh, the Ravens have hired their new coaching staff headed by Jesse Minter. Offensive coordinator Declan Doyle, defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver, and special teams coordinator Anthony Levine Sr. fill out the rest of the top positions.

Minter will formally introduce his coordinators at a a press conference next Wednesday, scheduled for 11:00 a.m. ET at the team facility in Owings Mills, Maryland. It will be streamed on a variety of platforms, including the Ravens’ mobile app.

Head coach Jesse Minter will hold a press conference Wednesday with new coordinators Declan Doyle, Anthony Levine Sr. and Anthony Weaver.

Livestream will be available on our Facebook page, YouTube, app and website pic.twitter.com/j7s0NxtqdW

— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) February 12, 2026

The Ravens have also released statements from Minter on each of his coordinators in the last few weeks as those hires became official.

Here is his statement on Doyle:

We are thrilled to welcome Declan to the Ravens Flock. An architect of offense, Declan will build around our players through communication, collaboration, relationships and trust. His innovative mindset, collaborative spirit, team-first approach and extensive NFL experience make him an outstanding addition to the Ravens organization.

On Weaver:

A highly-regarded defensive mind, Anthony Weaver has a proven track record of success and is the definition of what it means to be a Raven. He elevates players with his football IQ, tactical knowledge and natural teaching ability — all attributes that make him one of the game’s most respected coaches.

On Levine Sr.:

Anthony has been instrumental in creating the high standard that is expected of Baltimore’s special teams unit. The toughness, discipline, focus and energy he brought as a player will define his impact as a coach. He embodies what it means to be a Raven, and I’m excited to see him embrace this role with the same relentless hard work and dedication he’s shown our organization for many years.

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/b...ew-coordinators-at-press-conference-next-week

 

[Zedster]

Nice to see the Levine promotion become official. That's a guy who really earned it the hard way - decade as a player, then working his way up through the coaching ranks. You can't teach that kind of institutional knowledge about what it takes to be a core special teamer in this league.

Regarding the offseason priorities discussion, I think JJ's right that the guard situation is concerning. Reading through that breakdown, having no clear starting-caliber guards on a team with Super Bowl aspirations is a real problem. Lamar's mobility can mask some issues, but you can only ask him to do so much.

The Linderbaum extension feels like it should be straightforward even if he commands top dollar. Centers who can execute that running game at his level don't grow on trees. Letting him walk would be counterproductive when you're trying to improve the line.

As for the Boykin retirement news - that's a guy whose career arc is pretty common in the league. Elite measurables don't always translate to consistent production. Seven touchdowns in three years isn't nothing, but you could tell early on he was going to be more of a role player than a true receiving threat. Sounds like he made the most of his opportunities though. Respect to him for carving out a six-year career.

Looking forward to that press conference next week. Curious to hear how Doyle plans to utilize the offensive personnel and whether there will be any hints about scheme changes.

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

Ravens announce 2026 coaching staff under new HC Jesse Minter

ANN ARBOR, MI - APRIL 20: Michigan Football Defensive Line Coach Lou Esposito looks on during the fourth quarter of the Michigan football spring game at Michigan Stadium on April 20, 2024 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. (Photo by Jaime Crawford/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Baltimore Ravens announced their full coaching staff under new head coach Jesse Minter on Thursday, confirming a number of reported hires for the team.

Meet our 2026 Coaching Staff pic.twitter.com/ZpA8SvWpo4

— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) February 12, 2026

Baltimore Beatdown has already covered most of these hires, and links to those articles can be found in our 2026 Ravens Coaching Staff Tracker. Here’s a look at the rest of the new coaches we’ve yet to discuss:

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Christina DeRuyter, Chief of Staff​

DeRuyter is a name closely associated with Minter throughout their football careers. The daughter of Tim DeRutyer, a longtime college defensive coordinator, she has been around football her whole life. DeRuyter graduated from Texas A&M Aggie (Gig ‘Em) and got her official start working for the Aggies football department and broadcast team as a student. She worked on the recruiting and operations staff at Arizona, Texas Tech, Vanderbilt, and Michigan, where she worked under Jim Harbaugh alongside Minter when he arrived in 2022. She then followed Harbaugh and Minter to the Los Angeles Chargers as the director of football logistics. DeRuyter and her colleague John Wiedmeier won the AFC Travel Directors of the Year in 2024 with the Chargers for her help with the team’s operations and their travel schedule as they won 11 games in Harbaugh’s first year. She now follows Minter to Baltimore under a new title, but will seemingly have a similar role in operations regarding the team. Clearly, this is someone Minter trusts will help the team excel.

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Lou Esposito, defensive line coach​

Esposito is a 23-year veteran coach and now gets his first NFL job with the Baltimore Ravens. Just three years into his young career, Esposito became a head coach at Saint Joseph’s College , where he went on to win two Great Lakes Conference titles. He has 12 years of defensive line coaching experience, with 10 years in two stints at Western Michigan and, most recently, two years at Michigan in 2024 and 2025. Esposito will now work under Ravens new defensive coordinator and defensive line wizard, Anthony Weaver, as Weaver assists Minter with installing the defense.

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Shawn Flaherty, assistant offensive line coach​

Flaherty played offensive line at Towson, making this hire somewhat of a homecoming. He has been coaching his former position group for nine years. He started as a graduate assistant at North Carolina for two years before heading to the Miami Dolphins as an analyst, then an assistant offensive line coach. Flaherty then went to Atlanta under the same role and has spent his last three seasons there, where he worked with new Ravens offensive line coach Dwayne Ledford. Both are paired together again in Baltimore to fix one of last season’s weakest parts.

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Prentice Gill, assistant wide receivers coach​

Gill is staying in Baltimore after spending his last two seasons here as a coaching fellow. He’s now earned a full role as the assistant wide receivers coach under new wide receiver coach Keary Colbert. Gill and Colbert worked together at USC from 2016 to 2018, where Gill was a graduate assistant. After that, Gill spent one season at Oregon as an offensive analyst before spending four years as a co-wide receivers coach at Arizona State. Gill has been noted as a locker-room favorite who brought energy to practice and the Ravens wideouts enjoyed working with.

Smart move. Brought a lot of energy to practice, and Ravens receivers really seemed to like his approach. https://t.co/1wnnGxvNSf

— Jonas Shaffer (@jonas_shaffer) February 12, 2026

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Ben Koticwa, senior assistant special teams coach​

Koticwa is an eight-year Army veteran who graduated from West Point while playing four years of linebacker there. After his years of service, Koticwa jumped into coaching, starting at USMA Prep School as a defensive coordinator before starting his NFL coaching career, which has spanned 18 years of special teams experience from 2007 to 2025, with a one-year intermission at Army as the director of player personnel.

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Rick Minter, football analyst​

Jesse Minter’s father, Rick Minter, has over 40 years of coaching experience and will now work with his son on the same staff for a ninth year. Most recently, Rick Minter spent two years at Michigan with the younger Minter, then two years in LA before continuing to follow his son to Baltimore. The elder coaching statesman spent nearly a decade as the University of Cincinnati’s head coach from 1994 to 2003, where he crossed paths with John Harbaugh.

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Andrew Rogan, defensive quality control coach​

Rogan’s first professional coaching experience came at West Point as a coaching/personnel/analytics intern before he came to Baltimore, where he’s spent the last five years in assorted roles. He now enters his sixth year with the Ravens and his first as a defensive quality control coach.

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Miles Taylor, assistant defensive backs coach​

Taylor is another NFL coaching fellow, following Minter from LA. Before entering the NFL, Taylor spent 2020 to 2024 as South Dakota’s defensive backs coach. Taylor was a four-year collegiate player at Iowa, where he had one interception and 169 tackles before immediately starting his coaching career, staying with the Hawkeyes as a graduate assistant for two seasons.

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P.J. Volker, safeties coach​

Volker is a highly respected college coach whose connection with head coach Jesse Minter started during their playing days. They played together at College of Mount St. Joseph, where Volker was a two-time All-Conference linebacker. From there, Volker started his coaching career as a running backs coach at Thiel College. He had stops at Thomas More as a linebackers coach and recruiting coordinator, doing the same at Indiana State and Georgia State, before coaching linebackers again at Kennesaw State. Minter was his defensive coordinator at Indiana State and Georgia State. Volker once again coached linebackers at the Naval Academy starting in 2019, before becoming defensive coordinator as well from 2023 to 2025. Volker now takes his collegiate success and joins his close friend Minter in Baltimore for his first NFL job.

New Ravens safeties coach P.J. Volker joins the team after being the Defensive Coordinator at the Naval Academy for the past 3 seasons.

Navy Head Football Coach Brian Newberry talked about the type of person the Ravens are getting: pic.twitter.com/oHG0RPSGN4

— Ryan Ripken (@ryanripkenshow) February 10, 2026

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/b...2026-coaching-staff-under-new-hc-jesse-minter

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

Zach Orr leaves Ravens, will take Seahawks’ LBs coach job

Sep 7, 2025; Orchard Park, New York, USA; Baltimore Ravens defensive coordinator Zach Orr on the sidelines before a game against the Buffalo Bills at Highmark Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-Imagn Images | Mark Konezny-Imagn Images

Former Ravens linebacker and defensive coordinator Zach Orr announced his departure from Baltimore on Friday via a social media post:

Baltimore it’s always love from my end. Although the last couple years we did not achieve our goals that we set out to achieve, I will choose to cherish the brotherhood, fellow coaches, players making plays, division title, playoff win,etc!

Philippians 3: 13-14 pic.twitter.com/KPeSODqLH4

— Zachary Orr (@ZO35) February 13, 2026

Orr, 33, served as Baltimore’s defensive coordinator for the past two seasons, during which time the unit significantly regressed from their success under his predecessor, Mike Macdonald. New Ravens head coach Jesse Minter did replaced Orr with Anthony Weaver, who was passed over for the DC job in 2024.

Orr interviewed for the Chargers’ and Cowboys’ defensive coordinator vacancies earlier this offseason but did not receive either gig. He will instead reunite with Macdonald in Seattle as the Seahawks’ new linebackers coach, per DLLS Sports’ Clarence Hill. Orr served in the same role during his first stint under Macdonald in Baltimore in 2022 and 2023 and coached Roquan Smith and Patrick Queen to strong performances in both seasons.

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/b...eaves-ravens-will-take-seahawks-lbs-coach-job

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

Daily discussion thread: how should the Ravens use their 1st-round pick?

Ohio State Buckeyes linebacker Arvell Reese (8) reacts during the game against the Wisconsin Badgers at Camp Randall Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025 in Madison, Wisconsin. | Samantha Madar/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Earlier today, Baltimore Beatdown shared a few recent mock drafts that projected top wide receiver prospects as the Ravens’ selection with the 14th overall pick. Now, we want to know your thoughts on today’s discussion question: how should the Ravens use their first-round pick?

Typically, the Ravens’ first-round pick comes in the mid- to late-20s, so having the No. 14 pick is a rare opportunity for Eric DeCosta to add a premium talent. The team has only picked higher than 14th once in the last 20 drafts. Baltimore had the same slot in 2022 and selected All-Pro safety Kyle Hamilton after a surprising fall out of the top 10. The roster clearly needs pass rushing help and another guard, but the latter may not be a good value with such a high draft pick. Does a top prospect at another premium position enter the fray, or do the Ravens go with a true best-player-available approach and take a safety or linebacker?

Nikhil’s take: Obviously, the Ravens should be looking to add an impact pass rusher with the No. 14 pick. A wide receiver would be a worthwhile investment, too. But every year, players from those positions fly up draft boards after strong performances at the Combine. Closer scrutiny of others reveals they are not true first-round talents. By the time Baltimore is on the clock, a pass rusher or wide receiver who is truly worth the 14th overall pick may not be available. If those positions are heavily targeted in the first 13 picks, the Ravens may have a chance at a legitimate defensive playmaker at another position. Linebackers Arvell Reese and Sonny Styles and safety Caleb Downs could all fit that bill. Reese and Styles are versatile, athletic linebackers who could continue the franchise’s history of strong play at the position. Their presence in Baltimore would allow the team to consider moving on from Roquan Smith in 2027. Downs, meanwhile, feels like over-investment in the safety position, but it is clear that the Ravens’ defense needs a third safety to allow Kyle Hamilton to play a ‘Star’ role closer to the line of scrimmage. Downs could pair with Malaki Starks to be the best deep safety duo in the NFL.

What do you think? Should the Ravens even consider using their first-round pick on one of the three players mention above, or should they stick to their top need and/or premium positions? Join the discussion in the comments section below and be sure to check back throughout the day to continue the conversation!

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Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/b...ow-should-the-ravens-use-their-1st-round-pick

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

Ravens projected to land top WRs in post-Super Bowl mock drafts

Ohio State Buckeyes wide receiver Carnell Tate (17) makes a catch for a touchdown Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025, during the Big Ten football championship against the Indiana Hoosiers at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. | Grace Smith/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The 2025 NFL season has hardly ended, and the national media’s mock draft engine is already revving up. In two dpost-Super Bowl projections, the Ravens landed top wide receiver prospects Carnell Tate (NFL Network’s Chad Reuter) and Makai Lemon (PFF’s Max Chadwick).

Ideally, the Ravens can land a top pass rusher with their first-round pick. But it is easy to see a scenario in which the best ons are off the board by the time Baltimore is on the clock. At that point, Eric DeCosta could do worse than to add a potential difference-maker at a premium position. Let’s take a look at two prospects who could fit the bill:

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Carnell Tate, Ohio State​

At 6-foot-3, Tate would add some size to a receiving corps that has generally lacked it in the Lamar Jackson era. And unlike some bigger wideouts coming out of college, he has the ball skills at the catch point to match. In his final year at Ohio State, Tate averaged 79.5 yards per game and 17.2 yards per reception with nine touchdowns on 51 catches.

Here’s Reuter’s reasoning for mocking Tate to Baltimore:

It seems like Baltimore always finds value in the middle or later parts of Round 1. In this case, the Ravens scoop up Tate, whose profile is appealing enough that he could go in the top 10; with his strong hands and crisp route-running, he seriously boosts the potency of Lamar Jackson’s arsenal.

Ohio State has proven itself as a wide receiver factory, and Tate has the tape and stats to continue the tradition.

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Makai Lemon, USC​

Lemon comes out of college football’s other top producer of NFL receiving talent where both the Ravens’ receivers coaches once worked. Granted, they never coached Lemon directly, but their connections to USC could make Lemon especially appealing. Also appealing was his dominant 2025 season with a stat line of 79 catches for 1,156 yards (96.3 per game) and 11 touchdowns.

Here is why Chadwick matched Lemon with the Ravens:

The Ravens need to surround Lamar Jackson with more wide receivers outside of Zay Flowers, as 33-year-old DeAndre Hopkins is a free agent. Lemon was the best receiver in college football this season, taking home the Biletnikoff Award. His 90.8 PFF overall grade paced all FBS wideouts.

Lemon’s stats speak for themselves. He may not have the strongest physical profile, but he can separate deep downfield, compete at the catch point, and pick up yards after the catch. That skillset should translate to the NFL.

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Jordyn Tyson, ASU​

Just for fun, let’s throw in a pre-Super Bowl mock draft from ESPN’s Matt Miller that projected the last of the projected top three receivers in the draft: Arizona State’s Jordyn Tyson. The 6-foot-2 wideout put together an excellent season in 2024 (91.8 yards per game, 10 touchdowns) but missed time due to injuries in 2025 with slightly lower stats (79.0 yards per game, eight touchdowns).

Here’s what Miller had to say about Tyson’s fit in Baltimore

The Ravens brought in defensive-minded Jesse Minter as their new coach, but that doesn’t lock Baltimore into a defender in Round 1. This team lacks reliable options for Lamar Jackson outside of Zay Flowers — who has back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons — and needs to diversify its passing attack. At 6-foot-3, Tyson would give Jackson the bigger-bodied target he needs. I’ve long been an advocate of expanding Jackson’s strike zone with bigger receivers as opposed to smaller, speedier targets. Tyson overcame drop issues in 2024 to put together a cleaner, more complete résumé last season. There are injury questions, but he profiles as a WR1 who can win on vertical routes and has an expanded route tree for inside and breaking patterns.

As Miller mentions, injuries are a concern with Tyson, and Ravens fans still shudder at the words ‘Breshad Perriman.’ But he could be a complete receiver that can fill a number of roles in the Ravens offense.

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Now, it’s your turn! Should the Ravens draft a receiver in the first round, and if so, which of the above prospects is your favorite? Or, do you have a lower-ranked receiver who you expect to rise up the draft boards after a strong Combine? Share your thoughts in the comments section below!

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Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/b...o-land-top-wrs-in-post-super-bowl-mock-drafts

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

Ravens expected to hire Broncos WRs coach Keary Colbert

Dec 7, 2025; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Denver Broncos wide receivers coach Keary Colbert following a game against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Despite interviewing multiple other candidates for the job, the Ravens are expected to hire Keary Colbert as their next wide receivers coach, according to CBS Sports’ Matt Zenitz.

Colbert, 43, held the same position in Denver for the last three years. He spent two seasons working with new Ravens offensive coordinator Declan Doyle and tight ends coach Zack Grossi on Sean Payton’s staff. Prior to that, Colbert served in a variety of roles at the college level, including two stints at USC totaling eight years.

Colbert played the position he now coaches for six NFL seasons, starting as a Panthers second-round pick in 2004. He finished his rookie year with 47 catches for 754 receiving yards and five touchdowns, but never returned to those heights for the rest of his career. He finished his playing career in 2011, by which time he had already begun as a graduate assistant at USC.

Jobs at Pace Academy (2012), Georgia State (2013), and Alabama (2014-2015) followed before Colbert returned to USC. He served as the Trojans’ offensive quality control assistant (2016-2017), tight ends and inside receivers coach (2018), and wide receivers coach (2019-2021). After a year as Florida’s WRs coach, he moved to the NFL to join the Broncos.

Colbert has primarily worked with receivers and tight ends during his coaching career, making him somewhat of a pass-catching specialist. He has directly coached a number of notable NFL players in his career with connections to several more. They include:

• Jordan Cameron (TE, USC) *
• Albert Wilson (WR, Georgia State) *
• Amari Cooper (WR, Alabama)
• O.J. Howard (TE, Alabama)
• JuJu Smith-Schuster (WR, USC)
• Michael Pittman (WR, USC) *
• Amon-Ra St. Brown (WR, USC) *
• Drake London (WR, USC) *
• Ricky Pearsall (WR, Florida) *
• Courtland Sutton (WR, Broncos) *
• Troy Franklin (WR, Broncos) *
• Marvin Mims (WR, Broncos) *

Note: * denotes direct oversight as a position coach

At USC, Colbert also worked closely ex-Ravens quarterbacks coach Tee Martin and current Ravens assistant WRs coach Prentice Gill. Martin was the Trojans’ offensive coordinator at the time, while Gill was starting his coaching career as a graduate assistant.

Gill also interviewed for the Ravens’ WRs coach job and reportedly received support to get that promotion from players, per CBS Baltimore’s Alex Glaze. Colbert was chosen instead, but Gill is still a candidate to retain his position on Baltimore’s new coaching staff.

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/b...ected-to-hire-broncos-wrs-coach-keary-colbert

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

Ravens Potential 2026 Free Agent Targets: Interior Offensive Line

Oct 21, 2024; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Chargers guard Zion Johnson (77) against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

With the 2025 NFL season now officially concluded, the offseason picture will soon begin to take shape. The first and biggest upcoming period on the docket is free agency, which is only a few weeks away. For the Baltimore Ravens, this free agency cycle will be a significant one.

Coming off a disappointing non-playoff season, the Ravens cleaned house in their coaching staff and will need to retool the roster to quickly return to contender status. The Ravens have clear positional needs this offseason and other areas where they can improve upon current strengths. Free agency is a prime opportunity to do this.

Let’s take a look at some of the top available free agents at one position group, interior offensive line, who could be realistic targets for the Ravens to pursue. This will only include external free agents, not the team’s own players who will be hitting the open market.

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OG Zion Johnson, Los Angeles Chargers​

Johnson was drafted in the first round of the 2022 draft by the Chargers and was a full-time starter from the get-go. The former Boston College product has started 65 out of 66 appearances for his career and missed only two total games. Johnson has been a high-level pass protector at left guard and shown growth over the past four seasons since his rookie year. At 26 years old, Johnson is in his athletic prime and could continue to refine his game as an overall offensive guard. A couple potential noteworthy connections to the Ravens include the fact that Johnson was born in Maryland and played high school football in the state, too. Although he played on the opposite side of Jesse Minter’s defense in Los Angeles, Johnson is likely plenty-familiar with the Ravens’ new head coach as well.

OG Alijah Vera-Tucker, New York Jets ​

Vera-Tucker is a former first-round, No. 14 overall pick from 2021 who has struggled to stay healthy through five seasons. He missed the entire 2025 campaign with a torn triceps injury and was absent for 25 total games over the previous four years combined, too. His injury history is an undoubtable concern but could lower the market value for a talented player with untapped upside. When healthy, Vera-Tucker has been a sturdy force at offensive guard. In 2024, he allowed the fourth-lowest pressure rate at the position and the Ravens’ pass protection was troublesome at both guard spots for much of this past season. Vera-Tucker possesses offensive tackle versatility as well but has settled into more of an interior role since being drafted.

OG Kevin Zeitler, Tennessee Titans ​

Zeitler is a familiar face and viable candidate for a reunion in Baltimore. The 14-year veteran played some of the best football of his career with the Ravens from 2021-2023, cumulating in his first ever Pro Bowl nod. The Ravens opted to let Zeitler walk in free agency and go younger at the position, which ultimately proved to not work out in their favor. At 35 years old, Zeitler is certainly in the twilight of his career — but has still played at a high level in back-to-back seasons with the Detroit Lions and Tennessee Titans. Zeitler seemingly enjoyed his time in Charm City and could be open to returning on a one-year deal. While not a long-term solution, he would be provide an instant upgrade at either offensive guard spot.

OG Dylan Parham, Las Vegas Raiders​

Parham is a 26-year-old whose played all four career seasons for the Raiders. He’s not the sharpest pass protector at offensive guard but has a strong physical profile and positional versatility. Parham has played both guard positions and seen snaps at center in this NFL career and right tackle in college, as well. He’s started 63 total games out of 64 appearances. In a new scenery surrounded by better offensive talent, Parham may perform with more consistency and take another step forward. In his current state, he’s a stable presence at the position who would likely be affordable for the Ravens. He’s still plenty young enough to make strides in his development.

OG/C Connor McGovern, Buffalo Bills​

In the event that the Ravens can’t re-sign Tyler Linderbaum, they’ll have a big void to fill at starting center and will need to quickly pivot to replace him. If free agency is their preferred avenue to do so, McGovern could be a reasonable target. The 28-year-old, six-year veteran has some limitations in run blocking but has been a strong pass protector for his career. He’s been a surefire starter at both center and offensive guard for two different teams in his NFL tenure to-date. So, even if the Ravens retain Linderbaum, McGovern could still be a target as a reliable starter for either guard position as well.

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What do you think about these free agent options for the Ravens at interior offensive line? Are there other available players not listed you think the team should pursue? Join in the discussion and share your thoughts below!

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/b...26-free-agent-targets-interior-offensive-line

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

Discussion thread: who was Eric DeCosta’s best Day 3 pick as Ravens GM?

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - DECEMBER 31: Tight ends Isaiah Likely #80 of the Baltimore Ravens celebrates with Charlie Kolar #88 after catching a touchdown pa against the Miami Dolphins at M&T Bank Stadium on December 31, 2023 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Eric DeCosta is headed into his eighth draft as the Ravens’ general manager with a clear mandate to restock the roster for a Super Bowl run in 2026. He has hit on most of his first-round picks and also found some major contributors on Day 2. But, like many GMs, his Day 3 picks have resulted in a mixed bag. A few emerged as starters, several became solid role players, and many were out of Baltimore as quickly as they entered.

Today, let’s focus on the hidden gems that DeCosta has unearthed in his seven previous drafts: who was his best Day 3 pick as Ravens GM?

Nikhil’s take: 2022 fourth-rounder Isaiah Likely is the obvious answer here, which is why I’m going in a different direction with 2019 seventh-rounder Geno Stone. He took a few years to find his footing in Baltimore, but he carved out a third-safety in 2022 before taking over as the primary free safety in 2023. Stone thrived in that role, locking down the deep areas of the field with a knack for selling disguised coverages and making plays on the ball. Not only did his seven interceptions rank second in the league, they were the most of any Raven in a single season since Ed Reed in 2008. Though Stone has not been as good in Cincinnati, his departure exposed the Ravens’ need for a more reliable deep safety in the last two seasons in order to free Kyle Hamilton up for a disruptive role near the line of scrimmage. So while Stone may not have been a long-term contributor for the Ravens, he was quietly a hugely important part of the secondary and could even have been worth keeping around in hindsight.

So, what do you think? Was Stone DeCosta’s best Day 3 pick, or is there a better option? Join the discussion in the comments section below and be sure to check back throughout the day to continue the conversation!

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Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/b...as-eric-decostas-best-day-3-pick-as-ravens-gm

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

Why the Ravens should not use the franchise tag on Tyler Linderbaum

BALTIMORE, MD - DECEMBER 21: Tyler Linderbaum #64 of the Baltimore Ravens looks on before the game against the New England Patriots at M&T Bank Stadium on December 21, 2025 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The NFL’s franchise tag window opened on Tuesday, and the Baltimore Ravens only have one player to consider for a tag: Pro Bowl center Tyler Linderbaum.

But when you dive into the short- and long-term salary cap impact of tagging Linderbaum, it becomes clear that such a move is not an option at all.

(For a refresher on franchise tags, check out this information from the NFL and OverTheCap.)

The problem stems from the NFL’s grouping of all offensive lineman into one category for position-based contract designations, so the OL tag is representative of the top of the offensive tackle market. Tagging Linderbaum would be paying him like an elite offensive tackle…which he is not. This is the same reason that the Ravens did not pick up his fifth-year option last offseason.

The league has yet to announce the official tag figures for 2026, but OverTheCap projects the transition tag at $25.3 million and the non-exclusive tag at $27.9 million. The exclusive tag will be even higher than that, making it completely out of the question for Linderbaum.

And really, the non-exclusive tag is, too. The top of the center market currently sits at $18 million per year, the value of Creed Humphrey’s 2024 extension with the Chiefs. An increase by almost $10 million is unreasonable, whether it is just for 2026 or the basis of a long-term deal.

Linderbaum has no reason to sign a multi-year contract – from the Ravens or any other team – with an APY lower than his tag number. He can simply sign the tag, collect his $27.9 million, and put the Ravens in the same position a year from now, when a second tag would cost an unconscionable $33.5 million. No team would be willing to hand Linderbaum a massive contract and trade two first-round picks to the Ravens as the non-exclusive tag dictates, either. (Trading Linderbaum for two first-round picks would obviously be an excellent outcome for Baltimore.)

With the non-exclusive tag out of the picture, the only option left is the $25.3 million transition tag. That is still a tough number to stomach for a long-term deal with a center – more than $7 million over the top of the market.

Perhaps you could still make an argument for using the transition tag. Perhaps the Ravens’ urgency to compete for a Super Bowl could justify keeping Linderbaum at that number in 2026. He is extremely important to the Ravens offensive line, which needs to get better this offseason, not worse.

That still seems like a stretch. The Ravens would have to account for his tag number – which cannot be pushed into the future with void years – on the salary cap, limiting their options in free agency. Linderbaum would also be allowed to negotiate with other teams, which could result in him leaving Baltimore anyway. If he plays on the tag, the Ravens would then be in the same standoff with him next offseason. However, they may have finally reached the Super Bowl and/or found his successor by then and would be willing to let him walk.

The amount of expected interest in Linderbaum in free agency could also set up a tag-and-trade situation. A team may not be willing to move two first-rounders for Linderbaum and a pricey extension, but what are they willing to move?

It might be worth finding out, but that is an extremely narrow path to walk. Linderbaum would have to reach a long-term deal with another team while negotiating from the same high floor as he would with the Ravens. The two teams would then have to agree on trade compensation. In those circumstances, the chances of a deal are slim to non-existent.

The Ravens ultimately have two choices: pay up before Linderbaum hits free agency or let him walk. The Pro Bowl center is holding the team’s feet to the fire, and unlike their standoffs with Lamar Jackson and Nnamdi Madubuike, the tag cannot help them.

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/b...not-use-the-franchise-tag-on-tyler-linderbaum

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

Ravens Potential 2026 Free Agent Targets: Defensive Tackle

Dec 7, 2025; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Denver Broncos defensive end John Franklin-Myers (98) reacts after a sack against the Las Vegas Raiders during the first half at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

With the 2025 NFL season now officially concluded, the offseason picture will soon begin to take shape. The first and biggest upcoming period on the docket is free agency, which is only a few weeks away. For the Baltimore Ravens, this free agency cycle will be a significant one.

Coming off a disappointing non-playoff season, the Ravens cleaned house in their coaching staff and will need to retool the roster to quickly return to contender status. The Ravens have clear positional needs this offseason and other areas where they can improve upon current strengths. Free agency is a prime opportunity to do this.

Let’s take a look at some of the top available free agents at one position group, defensive tackle, who could be realistic targets for the Ravens to pursue. This will only include external free agents, not the team’s own players who will be hitting the open market.

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DT John Franklin-Myers, Denver Broncos​

A seven-year veteran and former fourth-round pick by the Los Angeles Rams, Franklin-Myers has established himself as an impactful pass-rusher in the NFL. The 29-year-old has totaled 14.5 sacks over the past two seasons since joining the Broncos to go along with 33 quarterback hits, 44 pressures, and six tackles for loss — despite playing less than 50% of the team’s defensive snaps. After starting just two games in the first two years of his career, Franklin-Myers has since been a full-time starter over the past five years — the first three of which were on the New York Jets. He’s recorded five or more sacks in four total seasons of his career. He may come at a higher price tag but would give the Ravens a big lift up front in terms of getting to the quarterback.

DT DaQuan Jones, Buffalo Bills​

Jones has 161 games of starting experience across 12 seasons. He’ll turn 34 years old this coming December, but his production and impact has remained stable over the past few years. Jones has been a full-time starter every season since his rookie year back in 2014 and has 2+ sacks and 5+ sacks in four consecutive years with the Bills. Last season, Jones also had two pass breakups, a forced fumble and almost tied a career-high in pressures with 13. Jones graded out as the 10th defensive lineman in the league per PFF with a mark of 75.5.

DT Sheldon Rankins, Houston Texans​

Rankins is a 32-year-old veteran with 10 total seasons under his belt. He’s bounced around a little bit across three AFC teams over the past four years, two with the Houston Texans — where he’s played some of the best football of his career. After playing in only seven games in 2024 with the Cincinnati Bengals, Rankins played all 17 games for the Texans last year and had a solid overall campaign. He totaled over 600 defensive snaps and recorded three sacks, 14 pressures, 35 combined tackles, and nine quarterback hits as a full-time starter for one of the league’s elite defenses. Rankins is not a young long-term solution but can provide an immediate impact in both run defense and as a pass-rusher.

DT D.J. Reader, Detroit Lions​

Reader is a well-known name and the Ravens are familiar with him, as he played four seasons with the Cincinnati Bengals from 2020-2023. Like Rankins, Reader is 32 years old and a ten-year veteran. He has only 12.5 career sacks and has averaged 5.6 quarterback hits per season. Despite his lack of premier pass-rushing production, Reader is still a sturdy force up front and has made his mark as a high-level run defender. He could pair well with Travis Jones on the defensive line as a complement and rotational piece.

DT Calais Campbell, Arizona Cardinals​

It’s been three years since Campbell departed Baltimore after a memorable three-year stint with the Ravens from 2020-2022. Campbell has staved off what seemed like probable retirement each year and is still chugging along at 40 years old. Given his age, Campbell is obviously a short-term, one-year option. However, he’s still plenty productive. He’s had between 5.0-6.5 sacks in four straight seasons and been durable, playing all 17 games every year since 2022. In Arizona last season, Campbell recorded 16 quarterback hits and eight pressures — both of which are higher than any of his single-season totals with the Ravens previously. A reunion may not be realistic if either side is not truly interested, but it makes sense from a football perspective and would be a nice storyline.

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What do you think about these free agent options for the Ravens at interior offensive line? Are there other available players not listed you think the team should pursue? Join in the discussion and share your thoughts below!

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/b...tial-2026-free-agent-targets-defensive-tackle

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

Discussion thread: who was Eric DeCosta’s best free agent signing?

On Tuesday, we asked you about the Ravens’ best Day 3 draft pick under general manager Eric DeCosta. Today, we’re moving into free agency, where DeCosta typically fills roster holes and hunts for value while doing so. That has resulted in a number of successful signings, but none that can be classified as a splash move. Which one was the best?

Nikhil’s take: If signing Odell Beckham Jr. contributed in any way to Lamar Jackson’s extension, then there’s an argument for him here. Derrick Henry and Kevin Zeitler are two other names that jump to mind. But I think that signing Morgan Moses to a three-year, $15 million deal in 2021 was an incredible value for a proven veteran right tackle. That is $15 million in total, not the $15 million (and much more) per year that starting right tackles are earning nowadays. Sure, the salary cap was much smaller then, but $5 million per year in 2022 is $7.3 million in 2026. Moses was excellent in 2022 but struggled with injuries in 2023, which contributed to the Ravens’ decision to trade him to the Jets in 2024. He missed time that year as well, but played a major role in the Patriots’ run to the Super Bowl last season. Moses certainly earned his keep in Baltimore and stood out as one of DeCosta’s best value signings as GM.

Who’s your pick for the Ravens’ best free agent signing during DeCosta’s tenure? Join the discussion in the comments section below and be sure to check back throughout the day to continue the conversation!

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Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/b...who-was-eric-decostas-best-free-agent-signing

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

Takeaways from the Ravens coordinators’ introductory press conference

From left, Baltimore Ravens head coach Jesse Minter formally introduces the teamâs three new coordinators, special teams coordinator Anthony Levine Sr., offensive coordinator Declan Doyle and defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver, on Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2026. (Brian Krista/The Baltimore Sun/Tribune News Service via Getty Images)

The Baltimore Ravens hosted an introductory press conference for their new coordinators on Wednesday. Offensive coordinator Declan Doyle, defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver, and special teams coordinator Anthony Levine Sr. all answered questions from the media, as did head coach Jesse Minter. Here are the top takeaways:

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Standards, standards, standards​

Between the four coaches, the words ‘expectation’ and ‘standard’ (or some variation) were used over 20 times on Wednesday. Declan Doyle said that he expects the players to be at OTAs in the hopes of “starting this next regime on the right foot.” And in Jesse Minter’s opening statement at his introductory presser in January, he said that he wanted to “create our own standards that will allow us to reach our ultimate goals together.” Clearly, this is going to be a theme of the new administration.

Sitting right next to someone who is praising you can be awkward, especially if you're also on camera. But every time Anthony Levine talked about accountability in this answer, Minter started nodding along. That is something he has emphasized since arriving in Baltimore. https://t.co/6tnTIZZFsv

— Baltimore Beatdown (@BmoreBeatdown) February 18, 2026

That is not to say that the Ravens did not have standards before, but accountability to live up to those standards may have been lacking. There’s a new sheriff in town, and he and his deputies know what this team is capable of and intend to hold them to it.

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Declan Doyle wants to get even more out of Lamar Jackson​

Lamar Jackson won two MVPs with two different offensive coordinators in the span of five seasons (and should have won a third in 2024). He ranks among the top 10 quarterbacks in NFL history in the following statistical categories: passer rating (t-1st), touchdown rate (5th), yards per attempt (t-9th), interception rate (t-9th). How much better than he get?

Declan Doyle praises Lamar Jackson for "his willingness to listen, his hunger to learn, his hunger to grow."
Also talked about his youth helping him relate to Jackson and others:
"It is easier for me to connect with guys because we are the same age, we grew up in the same world."

— Baltimore Beatdown (@BmoreBeatdown) February 18, 2026

Declan Doyle intends to find out. He was impressed Jackson’s “growth mindset” in their early conversations and expressed his excitement to chase an even higher level of play, both for Jackson individually and for the offense as a whole.

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Anthony Weaver is thrilled to be back in Baltimore​

Anthony Weaver interviewed to succeed Mike Macdonald as the Ravens’ defensive coordinator in 2024.. He was passed over for Zach Orr, and even after two strong years in Miami, he could not land a head-coaching or play-calling DC during this hiring cycle.

Anthony Weaver spoke about getting passed over for the Ravens' DC job in 2024. Made it clear that there were no hard feelings and his departure to Miami was about an opportunity (and the tax benefits!).

— Baltimore Beatdown (@BmoreBeatdown) February 18, 2026

Instead, he spoke about the position being “the main defensive coordinator in the National Football League.” A little hyperbolic? Perhaps. But the Ravens’ defensive coaching tree is littered with successes, including several who are head coaches and DCs to this day. He has a big legacy to live up to.

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/b...ns-coordinators-introductory-press-conference