Breaking News: 3 sneaky good NFL free agents Ravens need to sign over the hump in 2024
In 2024, the Ravens need to address some areas to surpass previous challenges. The Baltimore Ravens had a strong regular season last year, finishing with a league-leading record of 13-4 in the NFL. Guided by two-time MVP Quarterback Lamar Jackson, supported by a highly dominant top-ranked defense and rushing attack, they made progress in the playoffs but were defeated in a challenging 17-10 match against the eventual Super Bowl champions, the Kansas City Chiefs, in the AFC Championship game. To secure their place in the upcoming Super Bowl in New Orleans and secure the franchise’s third championship, the Ravens could use some roster enhancements to overcome obstacles. While their focus will likely be on retaining key free agents, here are three under-the-radar NFL free agents the Ravens should consider signing to boost their chances of winning it all next season.
Leonard Floyd
Georgia’s former first-round pick of 2016, Leonard Floyd, has carved out a successful NFL career, excelling as a premier edge-rushing pass rusher despite never receiving Pro Bowl recognition. Demonstrating versatility, he adeptly switches between defensive end and outside linebacker positions.
Floyd clinched a Super Bowl victory with the Los Angeles Rams in the 2021 season, contributing as the team’s third-ranked pass rusher alongside future Hall of Famers Aaron Donald and Von Miller.
During the 2023 season with the Buffalo Bills, Floyd showcased his prowess, tallying impressive stats of 32 tackles, 9.5 sacks, and a forced fumble in just 11 games.
In 2024, the Ravens face the departure of defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald, who secured a head coaching role with the Seattle Seahawks. Despite leading the league in sacks the previous season, the Ravens will miss notable contributions, especially from breakout star Justin Madubuike. Floyd’s arrival could bolster their pass-rushing capabilities and provide essential depth on the edge.
Facing key defensive players entering free agency, including Madubuike, Jadeveon Clowney, Patrick Queen, and Kyle Van Noy, the Ravens may struggle to retain all contributors due to financial constraints. Therefore, pursuing seasoned veterans like Floyd could fortify their defensive lineup, particularly crucial in a division featuring formidable quarterbacks like Joe Burrow and Deshaun Watson.
TYLER BOYD
In today’s NFL landscape, it’s increasingly common to see free agents from rival divisions joining forces. A prime example is Tyler Boyd, the veteran wide receiver for the Cincinnati Bengals. Known as one of the top No. 3 receivers in the league, Boyd complements a formidable receiving unit alongside borderline superstar Ja’Marr Chase and emerging talent Tee Higgins. However, with Higgins approaching free agency and likely commanding a substantial contract, Boyd could be attainable for a reasonable deal, particularly considering his comparatively lower statistics in the recent season.
The Baltimore Ravens have traditionally relied on their dominant rushing game during the Lamar Jackson era. Yet, they showcased an efficient passing attack this season, buoyed by contributions from seasoned players like Odell Beckham Jr. and Nelson Agholor. Incorporating Boyd into their receiving corps would be a significant enhancement. With multiple 1,000-yard seasons under his belt (consecutively in 2018 and 2019), Boyd’s stature (6-foot-2), expansive catch range, versatility to play both outside and in the slot, coupled with his experience, would seamlessly complement the explosive rookie Zay Flowers.
Austin Ekeler
As previously noted, the Ravens have centered their offensive strategy on a strong running game, leading the league in rushing yards last season with an impressive 15.4-yard advantage over the second-place Chicago Bears. However, impending free agency for talented running backs Gus Edwards and J.K. Dobbins means Justice Hill will be the lone remaining backfield option.
Throughout Jackson’s tenure with the Ravens, he hasn’t had a running back who excelled both in rushing and receiving. This gap could potentially be filled by Austin Ekeler, a seasoned seven-year veteran known for his record-breaking performances and prowess in Fantasy Football. During his time with the Los Angeles Chargers, Ekeler was renowned as one of the league’s top receiving backs, achieving the rare feat of scoring at least 15 touchdowns in consecutive seasons in 2021 and 2022. Despite not being a primary running back, Ekeler demonstrates the ability to run effectively inside while possessing the speed and acceleration to challenge opposing defenses, evidenced by his career-long carry of 72 yards.
While Ekeler’s recent season might have been less impressive, his history of success alongside a mobile quarterback like Justin Herbert suggests he could thrive in offensive coordinator Todd Monken’s system, especially alongside Jackson, widely regarded as the NFL’s premier dual-threat quarterback. Ekeler’s versatility as an option out of the backfield or lining up wide could significantly benefit Jackson. Additionally, Ekeler’s desire to leave Los Angeles may mean he’s available at a reasonable price, presenting an appealing opportunity for the Ravens.