Baltimore Ravens Face Critical Offseason Challenge: Lack of Cap Space Threatens Free Agent Signings
The Baltimore Ravens fell just short of their Super Bowl dreams, leaving them with a crucial offseason ahead. As they prepare for the 2024 season, the team must find a way to overcome the obstacles in their path.
One major hurdle they face is the limited cap space available to sign their numerous free agents. The ESPN staff recently released their predictions for the upcoming NFL offseason, highlighting the Ravens’ need to make tough decisions. According to Aaron Schatz, the team is expected to cut running back Justice Hill, a move that would save them $2.5 million in cap space with only $500,000 in dead money.
Despite the potential financial benefits, Hill’s departure would leave a void in the running back room. Currently, the Ravens only have Hill and Keaton Mitchell on their roster. Mitchell is recovering from an ACL tear, leaving the team with limited options.
Complicating matters further, the Ravens have several key defensive free agents who require attention. Players such as DT Justin Madubuike and LB Patrick Queen are seeking lucrative contracts, while safety Geno Stone hopes to capitalize on his breakout season. On the offensive side, the team faces the possibility of losing WR Odell Beckham Jr. and OL Kevin Zeitler.
With their estimated cap space currently sitting at a mere $5.65 million, general manager Eric DeCosta must navigate a delicate balancing act. He must find a way to retain the core players who propelled the team to the AFC championship while also adding impactful pieces to strengthen their roster.
The Ravens’ running back situation remains uncertain, with J.K. Dobbins and Gus Edwards both entering free agency. Dobbins, who has been plagued by injuries, is coming off an Achilles tear, potentially impacting his market value. Meanwhile, Edwards, the team’s lead back for most of the season, amassed an impressive 810 rushing yards and 13 rushing touchdowns. The Ravens may consider bringing one of these two backs back on a team-friendly deal to ensure stability in the backfield.
As the Ravens face these challenges, their ultimate goal remains within reach. However, they must navigate the offseason with skill and precision to position themselves for success in the 2024 season.
In a bid to secure their spot at the top, the Ravens are considering making a big move for veteran superstar Derrick Henry. However, their tight cap situation may prove to be a major obstacle in accomplishing this goal.
At just 26 years old, Hill has already shown glimpses of his talent. Although he struggled at times with pass-blocking, he proved to be a skilled pass-catcher, making 4 catches for 34 yards in a recent loss to the Kansas City Chiefs.
However, when Mitchell burst onto the scene, Hill found himself pushed out of the rotation and receiving limited opportunities. The decision to cut him could be crucial in determining whether the Ravens retain or lose another key player.
Given their financial constraints, Schatz proposed an alternative strategy. He suggested that the team should use a third-round pick to acquire a young running back who can lead the backfield.
While there may not be any truly game-changing running backs available in this year’s draft, there are certainly some promising players who have the potential to become solid stars. According to Tankathon’s projections, as of February 1, the Ravens are expected to select Michigan’s Blake Corum with the 62nd pick in the second round.
Corum is coming off an impressive season, having rushed for 1,245 yards and 27 touchdowns during Michigan’s National Championship campaign.
Although Texas’ Jonathan Brooks may be off the board by the third round, Tankathon’s rankings include a total of five running backs who are projected to be available in that round. Among them is Florida State’s Trey Benson, a highly talented player who could thrive in the NFL.
By adding any of these players to their roster alongside Mitchell and the running abilities of quarterback Lamar Jackson, the Ravens will undoubtedly boast a formidable rushing attack in the 2024 season.
Tony Vozza, a sports reporter, covers the Baltimore Ravens.
