Eric DeCosta, Baltimore Ravens
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General Manager Eric DeCosta of the Baltimore Ravens speaks to the media during the NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on March 01, 2023 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images)
The Baltimore Ravens made a huge splash to begin their offseason by acquiring superstar pass rusher Maxx Crosby from the Las Vegas Raiders. Unfortunately, the team has been unable to win in the NFL free agency market.
Obviously, the biggest loss for the team this offseason has been star center Tyler Linderbaum. He chose to leave the Ravens for a three-year, $81 million contract with the Las Vegas Raiders. Baltimore will look for a way to replace him.
New reports have shared that the Ravens almost landed that replacement.
According to a report from ESPN NFL insider Jeremy Fowler, Baltimore tried to sign former Green Bay Packers star offensive lineman Elgton Jenkins. The Ravens came up just short and watched him agree to terms on a two-year, $24 million deal with the Cleveland Browns instead.
“Browns explored a Jenkins trade, sat tight and then got him outright upon release from Green Bay,” Fowler wrote on X. “Baltimore also was involved here.”
Jenkins would have a been a huge addition for Baltimore. The move simply wasn’t in the cards.
What Have the Ravens Done So Far in NFL Free Agency?
At this point in time, the Ravens have only made two free agency moves.
As shared by ESPN’s offseason tracker for Baltimore, the team has re-signed backup quarterback Tyler Huntley to a two-year, $5 million deal and also added offensive lineman John Simpson to a three-year, $30 million contract.
Both are quality moves, but there is still work for the Ravens to do if they want to be a serious Super Bowl contender in 2026.
Eric DeCosta and the front office will need to get aggressive. After missing out on the playoffs last season and moving on from head coach John Harbaugh, there should be a sense of urgency surrounding the franchise.
Here Are the Ravens’ Biggest Needs This Offseason
The offensive line is clearly the biggest need for the Ravens right now. They need to put in some work to protect star quarterback Lamar Jackson.
Outside of that position group, Baltimore also needs help on the defensive line, at cornerback, at tight end after losing Isaiah Likely, and at the wide receiver position.
There are still good players available at those positions.
It’s possible the Ravens could opt to pass on making a flurry of free agency moves. They could focus on the trade market or the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft.
Regardless of how they make improvements, the team needs to figure out how to improve the roster. If they are unable to do so, they might find themselves on the outside of the playoffs looking in again next season.