OWINGS MILLS, Md. — The Baltimore Ravens remain in a favorable position as long as Lamar Jackson is healthy and performing at an MVP level. Although considerable changes to the team’s roster may be anticipated, they are more likely to occur over the next year than immediately.
“This year, I’m grateful that there aren’t as many difficult decisions to make,” said general manager Eric DeCosta during the team’s end-of-season press conference. “However, looking ahead, we foresee some challenging choices after next season.”
DeCosta’s remarks pertained to the tight end position but resonated throughout the entire roster. Following their second consecutive AFC North title and a playoff exit in the second round against Buffalo, the Ravens are projected to maintain a similar lineup for the upcoming season. This is a shift from last year when they had to address significant gaps in the offensive line, running backs, and linebacker positions.
The situation contrasts with two offseasons ago, when Jackson’s long-term extension was delayed until after the franchise tag was applied. Regarding the offensive line, while there’s uncertainty regarding the returns of Ronnie Stanley and Patrick Mekari, the Ravens successfully replaced three starters from last season without acquiring any major free agents.
“We made a tough decision last year to trust younger players, knowing they might face some growing pains. Looking back, I believe it was the right choice,” DeCosta reflected. “We’re aware that several players have contracts expiring, and we will definitely engage in discussions with them. We will also consider re-signing our existing players while evaluating options through the draft and free agency.”
DeCosta expressed a desire to retain fullback Patrick Ricard, who holds more value for the Ravens than for various other teams. In addition, receivers Nelson Agholor and Tylan Wallace, along with defensive back Brandon Stephens, are all set to become free agents.
The 2022 draft class is now eligible for contract extensions, featuring standout first-round selections—safety Kyle Hamilton and center Tyler Linderbaum. A number of other significant contributors, including tight ends Isaiah Likely and Charlie Kolar, linebacker David Ojabo, defensive tackle Travis Jones, guard Daniel Faalele, and punter Jordan Stout, are entering the final year of their rookie deals.
This situation points to a potentially crunchier offseason for the Ravens next year. After the 2025 season, several key players, including running back Derrick Henry, tight end Mark Andrews, linebackers Odafe Oweh and Kyle Van Noy, and nose tackle Michael Pierce, may also be looking at free agency.
DeCosta also addressed a few transactions that didn’t yield positive outcomes, including the signing of safety Eddie Jackson early in the season and the mid-season trade for wide receiver Diontae Johnson, who faced suspension due to a refusal to enter a game and is now poised for free agency. Jackson was waived last November.
“Eddie was a two-time Pro Bowl safety in his prime, and I accept that I overlooked certain aspects. He didn’t want to settle into the role of backup safety and special team player, and I respect that,” acknowledged DeCosta. “If I made a mistake, it was not considering how the player would respond to a diminished role. Eddie wanted to play.”
Overall, the season carried more positives than negatives, and both DeCosta and coach John Harbaugh share the optimism that this squad is capable of moving farther in the playoffs next season.
“We all experienced disappointment. Our team had higher expectations and didn’t meet those goals, yet I still consider it a successful season,” DeCosta concluded. “I am very proud of everyone involved—the players, coaches, support staff. I’ve already shifted my focus to the future.”
