The Baltimore Ravens’ season ended with a disappointing drop by Mark Andrews in Buffalo. However, the Baltimore Ravens’ 2024 season ended with many more questions on both sides of the ball as free agency and the draft are near. The Ravens are still one of the favorites to win a Super Bowl in 2025, especially with their star Quarterback Lamar Jackson at the helm. Eric DeCosta and John Harbaugh will have to put a team around Lamar Jackson on offense and build a more powerhouse defense to make that happen. Here are some Team needs for the Baltimore Ravens as Free Agency and the NFL Draft are near.
Offensive Line:
The Baltimore Raven’s offensive line in 2024 was a tale of two halves. To begin the season, the Ravens experienced growing pains with their offensive line. Grading out poorly in the first 11 weeks of the season. Then, questions began to raise from the media whether or not this line can keep Lamar upright for 17 weeks. Also, during the eleven weeks, the Ravens offensive line struggled against some of the best game-wrecking pass rushers in the league (TJ Watt, Maxx Crosby, and Chris Jones) but, on a more positive note, this offensive line did begin to improve after their week eleven 16-18 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers. Lamar Jackson was hit 6 times and sacked twice. Also, the Ravens have a few linemen who are set to hit unrestricted Free Agency come March (OT Ronnie Stanley, OL Patrick Mekari, and OG Ben Cleveland).
Cornerback:
In 2024 first-round selection Nate Wiggins, the Ravens secured a starting cornerback for the long term. His speed and height already position him as an elite athlete, and he will keep advancing as he becomes physically stronger this offseason and continues to refine his technique. Marlon Humphrey enjoyed are vitalized 2024 season after becoming leaner, which enabled him to play quicker and remain fit while still upholding his linebacker-like physical style. Humphrey also demonstrated a greater aptitude for making plays with an AFC-leading six interceptions. While Humphrey has predominantly played as an outside cornerback, his impressive season raises the question of whether nickel cornerback, where he is nearer to the action, is his optimal position. This isn’t the first occasion he has excelled in that role. The Ravens’ weakness in 2024 was on the other side, where Brandon Stephens surrendered 926 receiving yards, according to Pro Football Focus. Both Stephens and Tre’ Davious White are slated to become unrestricted free agents, and DeCosta indicated he anticipates Stephens will explore the market. If neither comes back, the Ravens’ internal alternatives would be Jalyn Armour-Davis, who has faced challenges in maintaining his health, and T. J. Tampa, who had very limited defensive involvement as a rookie fourth-round selection.
Pass Rusher:
The Ravens’ 54 sacks were the second-highest in the NFL last season, only behind the Denver Broncos’ 63. Outside linebackers Kyle Van Noy (12.5) and Odafe Oweh (10) both achieved entry into the double-digit sack club and will both return next season. Baltimore’s pass rush managed to take down Bills quarterback Josh Allen only once in the playoff defeat, however. If the Ravens are to overcome the challenges in the AFC, they must disrupt the elite quarterbacks up front. David Ojabo’s third season did not unfold as expected, as he recorded only two sacks in 13 games played. This will be a crucial season for him. Tavius Robinson developed in his second season as a strong edge setter, registering 3. 5 sacks and a significant snap share towards the end of the season. If the Ravens want to prove they are capable of winning a Super Bowl shortly then they should consider going against their norm and going into Free Agency by making legit offers. Whether acquiring about Myles Garrett (unlikely), Maxx Crosby, Joey Bosa, or Khalil Mack.
Wide Receiver:
The Ravens are aware that their starting pair will consist of Pro Bowler Zay Flowers and Rashod Bateman, who had his best season thus far. However, veteran Nelson Agholor and Tylan Wallace are both unrestricted free agents awaiting their fate. While Flowers, Bateman, and tight ends Mark Andrews and Isaiah Likely will likely remain the primary four receiving options, the Ravens will require additional depth. Baltimore selected Devontez Walker in the fourth round last year, but due to the extensive array of offensive weapons, his offensive opportunities were very limited, resulting in just one catch – a 21-yard toe-drag touchdown against the New York Giants. Walker will have improved chances for a more significant role this summer. The Ravens re-signed Anthony Miller, Malik Cunningham, and Dayton Wade on future/reserves contracts and will persist in their development. Veteran Miller performed admirably during the playoffs. Nevertheless, Baltimore will probably seek to refresh the wide receiver position with youthful talent. Since 2018, the Ravens have selected at least one wide receiver each year, except once (2022). I believe the Ravens do need a 50-50 jump ball guy who can help Lamar Jackson at the Wide Receiver position. Some guys to look out for in Free Agency are Keenan Allen, DeAndre Hopkins, and Amari Cooper.
In conclusion, The Ravens have the talent on both sides of the ball to win a Super Bowl. The question will remain: How can Eric DeCosta and John Harbaugh maximize their talent and hoist the Lombardi Trophy next February in Santa Clara at Super Bowl LX?
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