In a recent PFF article, they believe the Baltimore Ravens could target journeyman defensive tackle Maurice Hurst before the 2025 regular season starts. According to the source, the Ravens are just one offseason move from having a complete roster, and Pro Football Focus thinks that could be more run-stuffing depth on the interior defensive line. Indeed, the Ravens had one of the worst pass-rushing units last year after losing Jadeveon Clowney and Geno Stone in one offseason, but it’s getting worse each year. They lost linebacker Malik Harrison to their rival, and they haven’t been able to find a capable replacement to rejuvenate this defense.
Following Michael Pierce’s retirement announcement, the team is lacking a run-stopper alongside Nnamdi Madubuike, who’s been playing at his peak each matchup last year. Perhaps, they could add a cheaper option like Hurst on a one-year deal since the Ravens don’t have money to spend on a defensive lineman. Originally selected in the fifth round of the 2018 NFL Draft, the former Michigan product is probably one of the most underrated interior lineman that’s affordable for any team looking for a last-minute addition to their defense. It wasn’t too long ago when Hurst had his best season in 2023, recording an 84.6 PFF overall grade, but injuries have hampered him from excelling consistently.
Hurst won’t earn a long-term deal, but these four teams could offer him a one-year deal to potentially revive his career.
PFF: Ravens Could Target 10-Sack Free Agent Maurice Hurst – 4 Teams Could Intervene
Potential Destinations
Los Angeles Chargers
Just like the Ravens, the Los Angeles Chargers are looking for high-caliber interior defensive linemen to help save Scott Matlock and Otito Ogbonnia. These two defenders have been struggling the most in this unit, and while Da’Shawn Hand only provides short-term relief, the signing of Hurst could add more stability. Hurst doesn’t need to be perfect to make an impact in Jim Harbaugh’s trenches, but healthy to show up in crucial plays to bring some pressure towards the opposing offense.
Dallas Cowboys
Meanwhile, things are coming together for quarterback Dak Prescott and his offense after trading for George Pickens. The team is still one step away from an explosive defense as long as they extend Micah Parsons before the 2025 campaign. Defensive Tackle Mazi Smith hasn’t been performing up to standards, and Solomon Thomas won’t be a difference maker. Since Hurst could come at a cheap cost, they should sign him on a one-year deal to bolster the unit together behind Osa Odighizuwa.
Kansas City Chiefs
It’s never bad timing for the Kansas City Chiefs to add more depth to remain a Super Bowl team. Jerry Tillery is not on the same level as Chris Jones or George Karlaftis. Hurst could be an efficient backup for Mike Danna, who is coming back on a one-year deal. It’s not the biggest need, but extra defensive power could finally stop the offense when they couldn’t in this year’s Super Bowl.
New Orleans Saints
Even though the New Orleans Saints can’t afford to add more talent, general manager Mickey Loomis always finds a way to compensate defensive stars on a budget. Despite signing Chase Young to a big contract, he needs more help in the trenches unit, and Hurst may be useful to help Khalen Saunders. Bryan Breese has large shoes to fill when Cameron Jordan eventually retires, but adding Hurst could bring some much-needed relief.
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