The Ravens veteran linebacker and special teams ace is headed to the New York Giants
According to multiple reports, the New York Giants have agreed to terms with Baltimore Ravens free agent linebacker and special teams ace Chris Board on a two-year deal worth up to $6 million.
Board, 29, was an undrafted rookie and earned a spot on the 53-man roster due to his special teams play. Board played just 14 defensive snaps his rookie year, gbut played 356 special teams snaps as he carved out a role for the Ravens. After three years for the Ravens in which he played in 48 games, Board signed with the Detroit Lions in 2022. He then joined the New England Patriots for a season before reuniting with the Ravens for the 2024 season.
During his second stint with the Ravens, Board resumed his mantle as a special teams contributor, playing 80% of all special teams snaps (382), and saw inclusion on defense. Second-year linebacker Trenton Simpson was inconsistent as stepping into the starting role after the departure of Patrick Queen, and the Ravens began rotating in Board, along with Malik Harrison (who signed with the Steelers on Monday) and Kristian Welch.
The departure of Board and Harrison are notable losses for the Ravens’ linebacker depth and special teams. The two combined to play 550 defensive snaps and 718 special teams snaps.
Of the Ravens’ free agents, Board is the most surprising to not be returning. While the others were expected due to cost or the team looking to find depth and affordable options elsewhere, Board was an excellent option to continue contributing on special teams and defense.