The Ravens fell just short of reaching the Super Bowl last season despite boasting one of the NFL’s most talented rosters. Although the team experienced losses of key players in free agency, there’s optimism surrounding the infusion of youth.
Here are three additional moves Baltimore should consider this offseason to maintain their status as Super Bowl contenders.
1. **Acquire a Free-Agent Offensive Lineman:**
Losing both starting guards, John Simpson (to the Jets) and Kevin Zeitler (to the Lions), in free agency, along with trading right tackle Morgan Moses to the Jets, leaves the Ravens with three new starters on the offensive line for the 2024 season.
While young players like guard Andrew Vorhees (a 2023 seventh-round pick) and offensive tackle Roger Rosengarten (a 2024 second-round pick) will have opportunities to compete for starting roles, adding a veteran lineman to challenge them and fill any gaps initially could be a wise move.
2. **Secure a Free-Agent Wide Receiver:**
Despite drafting wide receiver Devontez Walker in the fourth round (No. 113), the Ravens may seek to bolster their receiving corps further. While several playmakers have already found new teams post-draft, intriguing options like Hunter Renfrow, Allen Robinson, Michael Thomas, and Marquez Valdes-Scantling remain available, providing Baltimore with opportunities to enhance their depth.
3. **Sign a Free-Agent Safety:**
While boasting one of the league’s top safety tandems in Marcus Williams and Kyle Hamilton, the Ravens need to address the departure of third safety Geno Stone, who joined the Bengals in free agency. Stone played a significant role in Baltimore’s defense, recording the second-most interceptions (seven) in the NFL during the 2023 season.
While options like Ar’Darius Washington (an undrafted free agent in 2021) or Sanoussi Kane (a seventh-round pick in 2024) are available internally, the open market offers talented safeties like Justin Simmons, Eddie Jackson, Jamal Adams, and Micah Hyde, who could provide valuable depth at a reasonable cost this offseason.
