ExtremeRavens

The first wave of the free agency frenzy has slowed, with moves now coming at a more measured pace. But Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta and vice president of football administration Nick Matteo, among others in the front office, have been busy. In addition to re-signing left tackle Ronnie Stanley, adding wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins and other moves, they’ve been clearing out much-needed salary cap space. A $13.39 million chunk of it was opened up with the restructuring of All-Pro slot cornerback Marlon Humphrey’s contract. Per Russell Street Report and Over The Cap, Baltimore utilized a maximum contract restructure, reducing what was an $18 million salary for 2025 to the NFL minimum of $1.255 million and converting the rest to a $16.74 million bonus. Two void years were also added. That’s way down from what was scheduled to be a $25.38 million cap hit for 2025, which was second on the team to only quarterback and two-time NFL Most Valuable Player Lamar Jackson’s. Humphrey, whose contract runs through 2027, also now has three total void years on his deal through 2029. Restructuring the contract of Humphrey — rather than extending it beyond the 2026 season — was one of the many priorities this offseason with the cornerback turning 29 in July. It also comes after what was a bounce-back season after an injury-plagued 2023 for the 16th overall draft pick in 2017, who was selected to the Pro Bowl for the fourth time and was a force all over the field and particularly on the inside. In a critical Week 16 game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at M&T Bank Stadium, Humphrey intercepted a Russell Wilson pass early in the fourth quarter and returned it 37 yards for a touchdown to help seal a 34-17 win. Six games earlier, in a showdown at home against the Cincinnati Bengals, it was his interception of a Joe Burrow pass ripped from the hands of Ja’Marr Chase that shifted momentum and helped spark a wild 35-34 comeback victory. And in Week 7 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, he had two first-half interceptions in an eventual 41-31 win. Humphrey finished the season with 67 tackles, including a career-high five tackles for loss, 15 pass breakups, two forced fumbles and a career-high six interceptions. He will also be heavily relied upon again in the Ravens’ secondary this season with a thin and inexperienced group behind him. Brandon Stephens signed with the New York Jets in free agency and veteran cornerback Tre’Davious White, whom Baltimore traded for at the deadline last year, is also an unrestricted free agent. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Ravens place less expensive tender on S Ar’Darius Washington in calculated risk Baltimore Ravens | DeAndre Hopkins could be Ravens’ best late-career WR addition | ANALYSIS Baltimore Ravens | Ravens DT Michael Pierce retires from NFL after 9 years Baltimore Ravens | Ravens have 11 picks in NFL draft after compensatory selections awarded Baltimore Ravens | Instant analysis of Ravens signing WR DeAndre Hopkins The only other cornerbacks on the Ravens’ roster for now are second-year standout and 2024 first-round pick Nate Wiggins, fourth-year veteran but oft-injured Jalyn Armour-Davis and unproven 2024 fourth-round pick T.J. Tampa. DeCosta is fond of saying that Baltimore can never have too many cornerbacks, and it’s likely he’ll add more in free agency as well as with at least some of the Ravens’ 11 picks in next month’s draft. Creating more salary cap space helps that endeavor. Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. View the full article

The Ravens placed a right-of-first-refusal tender on safety Ar’Darius Washington on Wednesday, the first day of the new NFL year. At $3.3 million, it is worth less than the second-round tender of $5.3 million. It also means that any team has until April 18 to sign the 25-year-old to an offer sheet, and if Baltimore declines to match it, it won’t get any draft pick compensation in return. Had Baltimore, which is tight on salary cap space after re-signing left tackle Ronnie Stanley to a three-year, $60 million extension ahead of free agency, among other moves, used the more expensive second-round tender, the Ravens would have received a second-round draft pick if Washington got an offer sheet from another team and the Ravens chose not to match it. Washington, who is entering his fifth year in the league after signing with the Ravens as an undrafted free agent out of TCU in 2021, is coming off what was far and away his best season with 64 tackles and two interceptions. He also helped steady a shaky secondary after being inserted into the starting lineup a little more than midway through the season for struggling Marcus Williams and alongside two-time Pro Bowl safety and 2023 All-Pro Kyle Hamilton. Through the first 10 games of last season, the Ravens had one of the worst defenses in the league, allowing the most passing yards per game in while ranking 27th in total yards and 26th in scoring. Over their final eight games of the regular season, however, the Ravens rose to first in the league in each category. “Ar’Darius earned that opportunity,” coach John Harbaugh said in mid-November and after Washington’s insertion into the lineup. “He earned that chance by the way he practiced and also by the way he played when he was in there over the course of the season.” Washington also produced one of the more memorable moments from the Ravens’ 12-5 regular season. In a Christmas Day showdown with the Houston Texans, he made a key fourth-down stop near Baltimore’s goal line. That prompted a wild celebration on the sideline in which he collided with and knocked down first-year defensive coordinator Zach Orr. But now the Ravens could potentially be at risk of losing Washington. It’s a risk they’re willing to take. At 5 feet 8 and 180 pounds, Washington is undersized for the position. He has also struggled to stay healthy. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | DeAndre Hopkins could be Ravens’ best late-career WR addition | ANALYSIS Baltimore Ravens | Ravens DT Michael Pierce retires from NFL after 9 years Baltimore Ravens | Ravens have 11 picks in NFL draft after compensatory selections awarded Baltimore Ravens | Instant analysis of Ravens signing WR DeAndre Hopkins Baltimore Ravens | Ravens, WR DeAndre Hopkins agree to 1-year deal After appearing in three games as a rookie, Washington suffered a season-ending foot injury. A year later, he was cut before the season, signed back to the practice squad and elevated for three games but wasn’t signed to the active roster until the postseason. In 2023, Washington began the season in the slot and through the first two games had 11 tackles, two pass breakups and a sack. But he suffered a chest injury that landed him on injured reserve and did not return until the playoffs, where he played on special teams. Over four seasons, Washington has appeared in 25 games (10 starts), making 78 tackles while recording two interceptions and a forced fumble. In other moves, Baltimore elected not to tender exclusive rights free agent running back Owen Wright nor restricted free agent cornerback Christian Matthew. Cornerback Arthur Maulet’s release also became official. Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. View the full article

Five years ago at the annual NFL Honors ceremony, DeAndre Hopkins posted a photo to social media that included himself, Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry and posed the question, “How many TDs would this trio total?” Two years ago, while Jackson was amid contract negotiations with the Ravens, the quarterback requested to general manager Eric DeCosta that Baltimore acquire Hopkins and Odell Beckham Jr. to improve the team’s wide receiver corps. Jackson got Beckham for one season in 2023, and now he gets Hopkins, who is the latest in a long line of once-premier pass catchers to sign with the Ravens in the twilight of their careers on the cheap after agreeing to a one-year deal worth up to $6 million on Tuesday. The list of past-their-prime receivers who have resided in the Charm City is long: Anquan Boldin (2010-2012), Steve Smith Sr. (2014-2016), Mike Wallace (2016-2017), Jeremy Maclin (2017), Michael Crabtree (2018), Dez Bryant (2020), Sammy Watkins and DeSean Jackson (2022), Beckham (2023) and Nelson Agholor (2023-2024). For the most part, that group had an underwhelming impact. Where does Hopkins, who will turn 33 in June and is entering his 13th season in the league, fit in? While he’s past the point of his career in which he will put up 1,000-yard seasons — something the three-time All-Pro and five-time Pro Bowl selection did seven times, including most recently in 2023 with the Tennessee Titans — there is evidence to suggest that Hopkins could have a greater impact than the bulk of the aging receivers the Ravens have previously brought in. Zay Flowers and Rashod Bateman Flowers is coming off a 74-catch, 1,059-yard sophomore season in which he was selected to the Pro Bowl. Bateman, a first-round draft pick in 2021, had career highs in yards (756) and touchdowns (nine). In other words, Hopkins will be expected to be a complementary third receiver alongside two ascending players. Add in tight ends Mark Andrews and Isaiah Likely, along with Henry and fellow backs Justice Hill and Keaton Mitchell, who is now 15 months removed from the torn ACL that ended his 2023 season, and there are plenty of impactful players that defenses will have to account for. That should make the job of Hopkins, who still has excellent hands and guile in his route running, easier than it was last season in Kansas City and certainly Tennessee. Still productive Hopkins put up respectable numbers last season with 56 catches for 610 yards and five touchdowns despite being slowed by a knee injury at the start of training camp and being stuck on a bad Titans team before being traded to the Chiefs. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Ravens DT Michael Pierce retires from NFL after 9 years Baltimore Ravens | Ravens have 11 picks in NFL draft after compensatory selections awarded Baltimore Ravens | Instant analysis of Ravens signing WR DeAndre Hopkins Baltimore Ravens | Ravens, WR DeAndre Hopkins agree to 1-year deal Baltimore Ravens | Ravens re-sign fullback Patrick Ricard to 1-year deal He obviously isn’t the same player he was in his prime — his 38.1 receiving yards per game and 10.9 yards per catch were career lows, and he was last selected to a Pro Bowl in 2020 — but there were other bright spots last season that portend a potentially meaningful year in Baltimore. Only 16 players had more contested catches than Hopkins’ 12, per Pro Football Focus, which also ranked him 23rd out of 98 receivers. He also ranked 20th in ESPN’s open score metric, which tied with Ja’Marr Chase and Calvin Ridley and was ahead of such players as Justin Jefferson and George Pickens. Hopkins also had just two drops last season, showing he’s still a highly dependable target, something that is bolstered by a 6-foot-1, 212-pound frame that makes him a threat in the red zone and in short-yardage situations. How will he fit? One interesting note from last season is that the Ravens used three-wide receiver sets just 27% of the time, ranking last in the NFL. But that came when veteran Nelson Agholor or little-used Tylan Wallace were operating as Baltimore’s No. 3 receiver, and neither of whom have the same ability as Hopkins. It should help, too, that Flowers, a run-after-the-catch dynamo, and Bateman, a smooth route runner with deep ball speed, complement what Hopkins does in short and intermediate areas of the field and in crowds. Hopkins is also durable. Only his 2021 season was significantly impacted by injuries (hamstring, MCL) over his first 12 years in the league, though he was suspended for the first six games of the 2022 season for a violation of the league’s performance-enhancing drugs policy. Hopkins could also perhaps bestow his football wisdom on an otherwise relatively young receiver room, much the way Beckham did, and finally gets to see just how many touchdowns he, Jackson and Henry can total. Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. View the full article

After a nine-year career and one memorable interception, Ravens nose tackle Michael Pierce has announced his retirement from the NFL. “After much prayer, talking to my family, just going through the grind, man, and being satisfied where I am, looking forward to doing other things in life, I’ve decided to call it a career,” he said on the Sports Spectrum podcast on Wednesday. “It’s been a beautiful, beautiful, beautiful nine years.” Pierce, 32, played eight seasons in the NFL — he opted out during the COVID-19 season in 2020 — after signing with Baltimore as an undrafted free agent out of Samford in 2016. All but one of those was with the Ravens. He had a year remaining on his contract but said injuries had taken a toll. “I don’t have any gaudy stats I was chasing,” Pierce said on the podcast. “I’ve had a ton of injuries. “I found joy in my job. I loved my job. But once you’re in the trenches for so long and those injuries start to mount up, you’re kind of trying to prevent the next one. Instead of walking on that field with joy toward the end of that season last year, I was more like, ‘I don’t need to get hurt.’ You don’t want to play without that child-like joy without that excitement.” Those injuries included what Pierce revealed on the podcast to be a torn quad that he said he suffered while running in a straight line last offseason. He opted not to have surgery, and other injuries continued to pile up for the 6-foot, 355-pound run-stuffer. Pierce suffered a calf injury during a Week 8 loss to the Cleveland Browns that landed him on injured reserve and caused him to miss five games. When he returned, his snap count somewhat diminished. Still, he provided one of the most indelible if not unbelievable images of Baltimore’s season when he intercepted a pass from Bailey Zappe in the closing moments of Baltimore’s regular-season finale and AFC North title-clinching victory over the Cleveland Browns and began rumbling downfield before quickly dropping to a knee at M&T Bank Stadium. Coach John Harbaugh called it “the most crazy, amazing play in NFL history.” Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | DeAndre Hopkins could be Ravens’ best late-career WR addition | ANALYSIS Baltimore Ravens | Ravens have 11 picks in NFL draft after compensatory selections awarded Baltimore Ravens | Instant analysis of Ravens signing WR DeAndre Hopkins Baltimore Ravens | Ravens, WR DeAndre Hopkins agree to 1-year deal Baltimore Ravens | Ravens re-sign fullback Patrick Ricard to 1-year deal “There’s a long history of turning big guy interceptions into memes,” Pierce said after the game. “So at the risk of ruining a career play like that for myself, it was time to go home. The bus was out of gas.” Now it’s for good, but Pierce left his mark. He spent his first four seasons in the league with the Ravens before signing with the Minnesota Vikings in 2020. Pierce returned to Baltimore in 2022 and said he told the team that it would be his last contract with them. A stout defender in the middle of the Ravens’ and Vikings’ defense, he finished with 238 tackles and had 9 1/2 sacks over 99 career games (59 starts). He also helped Baltimore finish in the top five against the run in five of his seven seasons there, including last season when the Ravens ranked No. 1 against the run. His retirement was not terribly surprising. In addition to being hampered by injuries, a helmet was left at Pierce’s locker for teammates to sign the day after the Ravens’ season ended with a divisional round loss to the Buffalo Bills. Pierce was also scheduled to make $1.255 million in the final season of a two-year, $7.5 million contract. If the Ravens process his retirement before June 1, they will save $666,000 in salary cap space with a dead cap hit of $2 million for 2025, according to Russell Street Report. If they do so after, they will save $2 million in cap space for 2025 with a dead money charge of $667,000 and a $1.334 million charge in 2026. “I found joy in my job. I loved my job. But once you’re in the trenches for so long and those injuries start to mount up, you’re kind of trying to prevent the next one,” Michael Pierce, left, said. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff file) On the podcast, Pierce thanked several people, including Ravens executive vice president and former general manager Ozzie Newsome. “Not a lot of people felt I could play,” he said. “But Ozzie and his staff … they gave me a chance when not many people were willing to take a chance on me.” He also thanked current general manager Eric DeCosta, who brought him back for his second stint with Baltimore, as well as Harbaugh, quarterback Lamar Jackson, outside linebacker Kyle Van Noy and defensive lineman Brent Urban, as well as former Ravens Terrell Suggs and Brandon Williams, whom he referred to as his “brothers.” “We’ve been so close to chasing a Super Bowl,” Pierce said. “You can keep pursuing that dream and pursuing that dream, but it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s gonna happen. I obviously hope that they achieve that dream next year.” Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. View the full article

Eric DeCosta’s title is general manager of the Ravens. But he’s also known by another, less-formal moniker in NFL circles: comp-pick king. On Tuesday, the league announced the compensatory picks awarded to teams for next month’s draft. Each year, teams are awarded compensatory draft picks between Rounds 3 and 7 based on a formula involving a player’s average salary per year, snap count and postseason awards. A team qualifies for them when they have more qualifying free agents lost than gained in a year. With the free agent departures last offseason of linebackers Patrick Queen and Jadeveon Clowney, safety Geno Stone and guard Kevin Zeitler, Baltimore was awarded the maximum of four such respective picks in this year’s draft: one in the fourth round (No. 136), one in the fifth (176) and two in in the sixth (Nos. 210 and 212). Those are in addition to the seven they already had, giving them 11 in all. Since the inception of compensatory picks in 1994, no team has been awarded more than the Ravens’ 60. The Dallas Cowboys (58), Green Bay Packers (53), Los Angeles Rams (51) and New England Patriots (48) round out the top five. “Any time you have more draft picks, you have the chance to draft more players, obviously, and get lucky on a few guys,” DeCosta said last year. “That’s what this thing is really all about, putting yourself in a position to take advantage and do things to help your team.” It’s a philosophy that has worked out fairly well over the years, though there have been some misses, too. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Instant analysis of Ravens signing WR DeAndre Hopkins Baltimore Ravens | Ravens, WR DeAndre Hopkins agree to 1-year deal Baltimore Ravens | Ravens re-sign fullback Patrick Ricard to 1-year deal Baltimore Ravens | NFL mock draft (Version 4.0): How free agency changes the first round Baltimore Ravens | NFL free agency: The Ravens are right to sit this mess out | ANALYSIS Three years ago, a fourth-round comp pick yielded the Ravens emergent tight end Isaiah Likely in the fourth round. In 2014, they used one on defensive lineman Brent Urban, also in the fourth round. The year before, they landed future All-Pro and nine-time Pro Bowl selection fullback Kyle Juszczyk (fourth round) and future Pro Bowl center Ryan Jensen. Quarterback Derek Anderson (2005), punter Sam Koch (2006) and fullback Le’Ron McClain (2007) were also notable comp pick selections. Already, the Ravens are in line to receive more comp picks in next year’s draft, too. With guard Patrick Mekari, cornerback Brandon Stephens and linebacker Malik Harrison all signing elsewhere in free agency this offseason, that sets them up to potentially receive three more. Here’s Baltimore’s full assortment of 2025 NFL draft picks: Round 1: No. 27 overall Round 2: No. 59 Round 3: No. 91 Round 4: Nos. 129, 136 (compensatory) Round 5: No. 176 (compensatory) Round 6: Nos. 183 (via Carolina Panthers), 203, 210 (compensatory), 212 (compensatory) Round 7: No. 243 Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. View the full article

Here’s what The Baltimore Sun sports staff had to say immediately after the Ravens’ signing of free agent wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins: Brian Wacker, reporter: General manager Eric DeCosta said this offseason that the Ravens usually don’t make a lot of “splashes” in free agency, but for the second year in a row they did just that. After adding running back Derrick Henry last offseason, Baltimore agreed to a low-cost, one-year deal with five-time Pro Bowl wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins. While Hopkins, who will turn 33 in June, is past his prime and won’t have near the impact Henry did, he gives Lamar Jackson a mature and dependable weapon on an offense that was already No. 1 in the NFL last season. Baltimore also desperately needed reinforcements at the position with a thin group beyond Pro Bowl selection Zay Flowers and the highly talented but mercurial Rashod Bateman. This isn’t the Odell Beckham Jr. move of two years ago, either. Hopkins had 56 catches for 610 yards and five touchdowns between the AFC champion Kansas City Chiefs and lousy Tennessee Titans last season, and in 2023 had 75 catches for 1,057 yards and seven touchdowns for Tennessee. He won’t put up big numbers on a Baltimore team that has plenty of mouths to feed, but he doesn’t need to. His strength is in his reliable hands, ability to catch passes in traffic and near the goal line and to be a trusty, seasoned target. Childs Walker, reporter: DeAndre Hopkins isn’t Derrick Henry. He’s five years removed from his All-Pro peak and unlikely to fill up the stat sheet game after game. But the Ravens needed a third wide receiver to complement Zay Flowers and Rashod Bateman. They needed a guy to help Lamar Jackson by making contested catches on third down and especially in the end zone. Hopkins demonstrated that he can still be that player in his run with the Chiefs last season. He has also been durable the last two years after missing a total of 15 games in 2021 and 2022. He comes at a reasonable price, just as his former teammate, Henry, did last March. This was exactly the type of targeted strike the Ravens needed to make after the initial rush of free agency began to calm. Hopkins’ name might be bigger than his production in 2025, but that’s not a problem for a team that doesn’t need him to be a star. He’ll be an overqualified role player on the most efficient offense in football, perfect for a guy approaching his 33rd birthday. Sam Cohn, reporter: This signing feels more akin to when the Ravens got Odell Beckham Jr., rather than Diontae Johnson. Hopkins is a veteran receiver past his prime who still warrants attention from a defense and has played in a Super Bowl. Will he explode playing with Lamar Jackson? Unlikely. But Hopkins’ 2024 regular-season numbers with the Titans and Chiefs were comparable with Mark Andrews’ yards and catch totals. On a one-year deal, he figures to be a legitimate complement to Flowers and Bateman. He showed no signs of needing to be the top target in Kansas City, and the 32-year-old told ESPN earlier this year that “playing meaningful football in January is what’s left on the list.” Presumably, the Ravens are thinking the same thing. C.J. Doon, editor: Yes, he’s 32, but even a diminished version of DeAndre Hopkins is a pretty exciting addition to this Ravens offense. Baltimore has long sought a big “X” receiver who can win on the outside, and the 6-1, 212-pound Hopkins is one of the most decorated in recent NFL history. The biggest question is whether he can still beat man coverage as an isolated target. Hopkins is not going to be a downfield burner at this stage of his career, but he showed in Kansas City that he can still win on quick slants over the middle and in-breaking routes. Given his experience and physical traits, he’s a great complement to younger, faster wideouts Zay Flowers and Rashod Bateman and provides the kind of red zone threat that Lamar Jackson simply hasn’t had before. The Ravens’ offense was already a nightmare matchup, and it’s become even more of a headache for opposing defenses with a veteran receiver who still has something left in the tank. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Ravens, WR DeAndre Hopkins agree to 1-year deal: reports Baltimore Ravens | Ravens re-sign fullback Patrick Ricard to 1-year deal Baltimore Ravens | NFL mock draft (Version 4.0): How free agency changes the first round Baltimore Ravens | NFL free agency: The Ravens are right to sit this mess out | ANALYSIS Baltimore Ravens | Ravens CB Brandon Stephens reportedly signing with Jets in free agency Tim Schwartz, editor: It’s might be a few years late, but DeAndre Hopkins and the Ravens have long felt like a good match. He’s not the superstar wideout anymore, but he can still carve out a solid role in Baltimore. He can still go up and get it, and that big-body, jump-ball receiver will always have a place in the pass-happy NFL. Why not take a shot and see if you can catch lightning in a bottle a few Sundays this fall? It fills a need and Hopkins can still put on a show from time to time, too. This move just makes sense. Bennett Conlin, editor: Hopkins isn’t the All-Pro he was during his prime, but he’s still a productive veteran. Last season’s trade for Diontae Johnson ended up being a mistake, as Johnson seemed more focused on individual production than the team’s success. The Ravens shouldn’t have that issue with Hopkins, who is well-respected by his peers and should fit in well in Baltimore’s locker room. Like Lamar Jackson, Hopkins is still chasing his first Super Bowl title. Given the reasonable price of the deal, this is a solid signing for Baltimore to add a hungry veteran with above-average upside. Hopkins won’t drastically change the team’s outlook, but he gives Jackson another reliable target and adds veteran leadership. Have a news tip? Contact sports editor Tim Schwartz at timschwartz@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/timschwartz13. View the full article

The Ravens finally made their free agent splash. Baltimore is signing wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins, according to reports. The five-time Pro Bowl selection and three-time All-Pro has agreed to a one-year, $5 million deal that could go up to $6 million. The 32-year-old Hopkins, who was traded to the Kansas City Chiefs by the Tennessee Titans ahead of the deadline last season, helped the Chiefs to a third straight Super Bowl appearance. He had 41 receptions for 437 receiving yards and four touchdowns in 10 games in Kansas City and finished the year with 56 catches for 610 yards and five touchdowns. He also had had two catches for 18 yards and a touchdown in their loss to the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl 59. Over his 12-year career with the Houston Texans, Arizona Cardinals, Titans and Chiefs, Hopkins has 984 catches for 12,965 yards and 83 touchdowns and and has topped the 1,000-yard mark seven times. Hopkins bolsters a wide receiver group that already includes Pro Bowl selection Zay Flowers and 2021 first-round draft pick Rashod Bateman, who had career highs in yards (756) and touchdowns (nine) last season. His also gives quarterback Lamar Jackson yet another weapon on an offense that led the league in yards per game last season and was tops in defense-adjusted value over average (DVOA). “He’s one of the greats,” Hopkins said of Jackson in 2023 on the “I Am Athlete” podcast. “I would be lying to sit here and say it wouldn’t be an honor one day … to play with a great guy and a great quarterback like Lamar.” This article will be updated. Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Ravens re-sign fullback Patrick Ricard to 1-year deal Baltimore Ravens | NFL mock draft (Version 4.0): How free agency changes the first round Baltimore Ravens | NFL free agency: The Ravens are right to sit this mess out | ANALYSIS Baltimore Ravens | Ravens CB Brandon Stephens reportedly signing with Jets in free agency Baltimore Ravens | Ravens versatile lineman Patrick Mekari signing with Jaguars in free agency View the full article

The Ravens broke their free agency silence Tuesday, announcing they agreed to a one-year deal with fullback Patrick Ricard, who has made five Pro Bowls in eight seasons with the team. Ricard, 30, has not played as large a role in two seasons under offensive coordinator Todd Monken as he did under previous coordinator Greg Roman, but he remains a key blocker in the Ravens’ running game, which led the league in rushing yards per game and per attempt last season. He played 39% of the team’s offensive snaps in 2024 and caught three passes for 22 yards and a touchdown. Terms of his new deal were not immediately available. The day after the Ravens’ playoff loss to the Buffalo Bills, Ricard made it clear that he wanted to return to the only NFL team he has known. “I want to stay here,” he said. “I want to be here. I want to retire here.” He said he’s completely comfortable with his place in Monken’s system: “He understands how to use me. I would like to keep being a part of it as long as everyone wants me here, and he wants to keep using me the way he has been using me.” General manager Eric DeCosta had expressed confidence that Ricard would be back. “His agent is a good friend of mine, and I think Pat knows how we feel about him, and I would for him to retire as a Raven,” DeCosta said at the team’s season-ending news conference. “He epitomizes everything that we’re all about. And he’s another undrafted guy who just became — in my opinion — the best at his position. … This is not the first time he’s been a free agent. In fact, I think he’s signed at least two deals with us after his rookie deal, so this is probably his fourth contract now with us, if we can get him signed, and I would say that would be the goal.” DeCosta has followed through on his promise to bring back key players from his 2024 roster rather than spend his limited salary cap room on outside free agents. The Ravens re-signed Ricard three days after they agreed to a three-year, $60 million extension with left tackle Ronnie Stanley. This article will be updated. Have a news tip? Contact Childs Walker at daviwalker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6893 and x.com/ChildsWalker. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | NFL mock draft (Version 4.0): How free agency changes the first round Baltimore Ravens | NFL free agency: The Ravens are right to sit this mess out | ANALYSIS Baltimore Ravens | Ravens CB Brandon Stephens reportedly signing with Jets in free agency Baltimore Ravens | Ravens versatile lineman Patrick Mekari signing with Jaguars in free agency Baltimore Ravens | Ravens 2025 free agency tracker: Who’s coming, going and staying View the full article

There’s nothing like the first day of NFL free agency. The sheer volume of moves can be overwhelming — unless, of course, you’re the Ravens. Then it’s more about how many players Baltimore needs to replace and how long it can wait out the market to scoop up some bargains. It’s hard to argue with that approach. Of course, the lifeblood of the Ravens’ success has always been the draft. They enter this year with a projected 11 picks, including No. 27 overall in the first round. How the first wave of free agency changes the picture for the Ravens and the teams picking ahead of them is a worthwhile study, even with more moves coming over the next several days. But there has been enough significant player movement thus far to get a clearer picture of team needs as the draft approaches, beginning April 24. Here are The Baltimore Sun’s latest projections for the first round: 1. Tennessee Titans: Cam Ward, QB, Miami (Fla.) Sam Darnold (Seahawks) and Justin Fields (Jets) quickly found new homes, and Aaron Rodgers is likely headed to Pittsburgh. That leaves Tennessee with an easy choice here – unless they don’t like any of the top quarterbacks available or are blown away by a trade package from a desperate team. By all accounts, Ward has a high enough ceiling to take with the No. 1 selection. 2. Cleveland Browns: Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado Trading for Kenny Pickett doesn’t solve the Browns’ quarterback problem. While Sanders has been questioned for his lack of arm strength and brash personality, Cleveland was reportedly impressed with him at the East-West Shrine Bowl in January. With Myles Garrett re-signed, the Browns can keep building some excitement by taking the college superstar. 3. New York Giants: Abdul Carter, EDGE, Penn State Is Russell Wilson the consolation prize for the Giants? This would be a tough scenario for a team that only has Tommy DeVito under contract at quarterback. Carter might seem redundant with Brian Burns and Kayvon Thibodeaux on the edge, but the Super Bowl champion Eagles just proved that you can’t have too many pass rushers. Plus, New York re-signed wide receiver Darius Slayton and added cornerback Paulson Adebo to kick off free agency, perhaps ruling out Travis Hunter. Could Travis Hunter be the No. 1 wide receiver the Patriots are searching for? (AP Photo/Eric Gay) 4. New England Patriots: Travis Hunter, WR/CB, Colorado This would be a dream scenario for the Patriots, who used their cap space to target their biggest needs but have yet to land an impact wide receiver. If New England feels comfortable making Hunter a primary wide receiver with some cornerback snaps mixed in, he could become the No. 1 target for budding young star Drake Maye. 5. Jacksonville Jaguars: Mason Graham, DT, Michigan So far, the Jaguars’ spending spree has not included an interior defensive lineman despite that being a glaring need. At this point, if Graham is still on the board when they make this pick, it would be surprising if they pass on him. 6. Las Vegas Raiders: Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State Well, cross quarterback off the Raiders’ wish list. Geno Smith is reunited with Pete Carroll after a surprising trade from the Seahawks, giving Las Vegas the freedom to improve a dreadful rushing attack. Jeanty is well worth a top-10 selection after having one of the best seasons for a running back in NCAA history. Related Articles NFL | NFL mock draft (Version 3.0): Two-round projections after scouting combine NFL | 2025 NFL mock draft: First-round projections after Week 18 7. New York Jets: Armand Membou, OT/G, Missouri With Morgan Moses going to the Patriots, the Jets have a hole at right tackle. Protecting new quarterback Fields should be a priority, so why not take the top offensive lineman available? With his length, size and movement skills, Membou can be a starter from Day 1. 8. Carolina Panthers: Jalon Walker, LB/EDGE, Georgia After beefing up the defense in free agency, highlighted by safety Tre’von Moehrig and defensive lineman Tershawn Wharton, the Panthers should keep taking big swings to improve that side of the ball. Walker is a versatile chess piece who might be best suited as a full-time pass rusher. 9. New Orleans Saints: Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona As evidenced by Tee Higgins and Chris Godwin staying with their respective teams, it’s hard to find elite wide receivers in free agency. Given long-term concerns about Chris Olave’s health following multiple concussions, the Saints should be thinking about targeting a wide receiver early in the draft. McMillan could blossom into a true No. 1 target. 10. Chicago Bears: Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State With the Bears aggressively overhauling their offensive line through a series of trades and free agent signings, they now have plenty of options with this pick. Tight end is a sneaky big need. Last season, only two other teams ran more plays out of 12 personnel (one running back, two tight ends) than the Lions when new coach Ben Johnson was the offensive coordinator. Warren could team up with Cole Kmet to give Caleb Williams some big targets over the middle. 11. San Francisco 49ers: Jahdae Barron, CB, Texas With cornerback Charvarius Ward and safety Talanoa Hufanga departing in free agency, the 49ers need to restock their secondary. Barron lined up outside, in the slot and in the box for the Longhorns and has the potential to be a difference-making defender with his instincts and ability to break on the ball. 12. Dallas Cowboys: Jihaad Campbell, LB, Alabama With Javonte Williams signing as a free agent and the overall depth at the position in the draft, the Cowboys don’t need to force a running back selection here. Campbell can step into the same role Dallas envisioned for DeMarvion Overshown before he suffered a serious knee injury. Michigan tight end Colston Loveland would be a perfect fit for the Broncos. (Al Goldis/AP Photo) 13. PROJECTED TRADE: Denver Broncos (via Miami Dolphins): Colston Loveland, TE, Michigan With linebacker Dre Greenlaw joining his former 49ers teammate Hufanga in Denver, the Broncos can be aggressive in targeting offensive playmakers. Loveland feels like a natural fit in the “joker” position for coach Sean Payton and has the potential to become the focal point of the passing attack. 14. Indianapolis Colts: Will Campbell, OT/G, LSU Maybe it’s unrealistic to expect Campbell to fall out of the top 10, but that’s just an example of how things can change because of free agency. By signing Ward and safety Cam Bynum, the Colts addressed their leaky secondary. Now they can fix the interior of their offensive line or perhaps upgrade at right tackle with a starting-caliber player who can line up anywhere. 15. Atlanta Falcons: Shemar Stewart, EDGE, Texas A&M The Falcons already had one of the worst defensive lines in the league, and then they cut longtime cornerstone Grady Jarrett. Stewart never had more than two sacks in a season in college, but he crushed the combine with athletic testing scores on par with Garrett. That’s the type of bet Atlanta needs to make to find an impact pass rusher. 16. Arizona Cardinals: Kenneth Grant, DT, Michigan The Cardinals signed Josh Sweat and brought back Baron Browning to bolster their pass rush, but why stop there? Arizona reportedly made a big push for Milton Williams before he signed with New England, so the appetite for an interior defender is clear. Grant would be an outstanding Plan B. 17. PROJECTED TRADE: Houston Texans (via Cincinnati Bengals): Kelvin Banks Jr., OT, Texas After trading five-time Pro Bowl selection Laremy Tunsil to the Commanders for a package of draft picks, the Texans should use some of that capital to find his replacement. In this scenario, they trade up from No. 25 to pick Banks, who has a high ceiling and is just 20 years old. The drop-off behind him at tackle might be steep enough to push Houston to make this move. 18. Seattle Seahawks: Matthew Golden, WR, Texas It’s been a wild couple of days for the Seahawks, who traded Smith and wide receiver DK Metcalf before signing Darnold to be their franchise quarterback. Jaxon Smith-Njigba needs a running mate for Klint Kubiak’s offense to excel, and Golden fits the bill as a reliable, smooth target who can help make things easier for Darnold. 19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Donovan Ezeiruaku, EDGE, Boston College The Buccaneers have quietly become one of the league’s most steady franchises, as evidenced by Godwin, linebacker Lavonte David and guard Ben Bredeson choosing to re-sign. A one-year deal for Haason Reddick should not preclude Tampa Bay from adding more pass-rush help, so drafting Ezeiruaku as a long-term play at outside linebacker in Todd Bowles’ 3-4 defense makes sense. 20. PROJECTED TRADE: Miami Dolphins (via Denver Broncos): Will Johnson, CB, Michigan Whether it’s safety, interior offensive line or defensive tackle, the Dolphins have clear needs that they have thus far neglected to address in free agency. Cornerback is near the top, too, and if Johnson is still available, they shouldn’t hesitate to take him. Outside of Jalen Ramsey, who just turned 30, there’s not much depth there on the roster. Ohio State wide receiver Emeka Egbuka would be a great complement to DK Metcalf in Pittsburgh. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill) 21. Pittsburgh Steelers: Emeka Egbuka, WR, Ohio State The big trade for Metcalf perhaps signals that George Pickens’ time in Pittsburgh is coming to an end. Egbuka has drawn comparisons to his former Buckeyes teammate Smith-Njigba, who excelled in the slot next to Metcalf in Seattle. Egbuka is a savvy, experienced player who could also thrive with the demanding Rodgers if he ends up being their quarterback. 22. Los Angeles Chargers: Mykel Williams, EDGE, Georgia Khalil Mack is back on a one-year deal, but the Chargers have a hole at edge rusher after cutting Joey Bosa. Williams’ size (6-5, 265 pounds), ability to crush the pocket and strength as a run defender should be appealing to coach Jim Harbaugh. 23. Green Bay Packers: Luther Burden III, WR, Missouri By signing guard Aaron Banks and cornerback Nate Hobbs, the Packers addressed two of their biggest needs. Can they find their No. 1 wide receiver in the draft? Maybe. According to NFL.com scout Lance Zierlein, Burden “checks several priority boxes that typically foreshadow an impressive NFL career.” 24. PROJECTED TRADE: Buffalo Bills (via Minnesota Vikings): Walter Nolen, DT, Ole Miss The signing of Josh Palmer doesn’t rule out a first-round wide receiver for Buffalo, but it certainly isn’t a huge priority anymore. Pairing Nolen with Ed Oliver is an enticing idea for a defense that needs to improve against the run, so much so that it would be worth a small trade up. The former five-star recruit has the tools to be an every-down menace. 25. PROJECTED TRADE: Cincinnati Bengals (via Houston Texans): Mike Green, EDGE, Marshall Given how deep this draft is at defensive line, it would make sense for the Bengals to entertain trading down. After re-signing B.J. Hill and adding T.J. Slayton, adding an edge rusher should be a priority, especially if Trey Hendrickson is traded. Green is a disruptive player who offers more upside than their previous high draft picks Myles Murphy and Joseph Ossai. 26. Los Angeles Rams: Josh Simmons, OT, Ohio State The Rams seemingly have their starting five set after re-signing left tackle Alaric Jackson, but right tackle Rob Havenstein is 32 and entering the final year of his deal. Los Angeles can bring along Simmons slowly after he suffered a torn patellar tendon in his left knee last season. The Davante Adams signing probably rules out a wide receiver, even with Cooper Kupp expected to depart. Tennessee defensive end James Pearce Jr. would be a worthwhile bet to improve the Ravens’ pass rush. (AP Photo/George Walker IV) 27. Ravens: James Pearce Jr., EDGE, Tennessee As is typical for the Ravens, they said goodbye to a handful of players at the onset of free agency in offensive lineman Patrick Mekari, cornerback Brandon Stephens, and linebackers Malik Harrison and Chris Board. But they brought back left tackle Ronnie Stanley, answering their biggest offseason question. At this point, the defensive line or secondary feel like the two areas to target early in the draft. There’s a good argument to be made for Pearce, an explosive player who can perhaps even exceed Odafe Oweh’s ceiling. Only the Ravens can decide whether any reported “character concerns” with Pearce are a real issue. 28. Detroit Lions: Nic Scourton, EDGE, Texas A&M The Lions brought back Marcus Davenport on a one-year deal and signed cornerback D.J. Reed, but the defensive upgrades shouldn’t stop there. Scourton has the size and pass-rush repertoire to be a worthy pairing alongside Aidan Hutchinson to help fill out an imposing defensive line. 29. Washington Commanders: Nick Emmanwori, S, South Carolina With the additions of Tunsil, wide receiver Deebo Samuel and defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw, and the re-signings of tight ends Zach Ertz and John Bates and linebacker Bobby Wagner, the Commanders won’t be painted into a corner come draft time. Replacing versatile safety Jeremy Chinn with Emmanwori, an alluring package of size and speed, would be a savvy move. 30. PROJECTED TRADE: Minnesota Vikings (via Buffalo Bills): Grey Zabel, OT/G, North Dakota State With just four total selections, it’s likely that Minnesota looks to trade down and recuperate some assets. After signing center Ryan Kelly, the Vikings can upgrade one of their guard spots with Zabel, who dominated the Senior Bowl to prove he belongs in the first-round conversation. 31. Kansas City Chiefs: Derrick Harmon, DT, Oregon By franchise-tagging guard Trey Smith, signing left tackle Jaylon Moore and re-signing wide receiver Marquise Brown, the Chiefs have stabilized their offense. With Wharton leaving and Derrick Nnadi, Mike Pennel and Charles Omenihu now free agents, addressing the defensive line with a promising prospect like Harmon might be a necessary move. 32. Philadelphia Eagles: Tyler Booker, G, Alabama Although the Eagles have the dynamite young pair of Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean at corner, losing Darius Slay, Isaiah Rodgers and Avonte Maddox raises some concerns about the No. 3 spot. Offensive line might be a bigger priority for that front office, though, especially If Mekhi Becton doesn’t re-sign. Booker feels like a natural fit to take over at right guard. Have a news tip? Contact sports editor C.J. Doon at cdoon@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/CJDoon. View the full article

The script wrote itself once the Ravens on Saturday agreed to a $60 million extension with left tackle Ronnie Stanley. They identified Stanley as the one player they could not comfortably replace with an internal candidate or draft pick, so they used what little financial flexibility they had to to keep him home before the NFL’s free agency stampede kicked off Monday. With that, general manager Eric DeCosta essentially hung a sign outside his door that said “temporarily closed for business.” DeCosta’s time-tested approach — lock up your key guys and hold on to your wallet while the market busts open — looked wiser and wiser as hundreds of millions of dollars flowed to middling free agents. At left tackle for example, former Pittsburgh Steeler Dan Moore Jr. — a durable starter who can’t touch Stanley as a pass blocker — reportedly signed with the Tennessee Titans for $82 million over four years. Suffice to say the Ravens were surely thrilled they had already finished their business at one of the league’s premium positions, signing the superior player in Stanley for less total and guaranteed money. Fans generally itch for their teams to dive into free agency with two fistfuls of cash. All those names and all those dollars choking social media on a Monday afternoon in March? Why sit out such fun? Ravens fans have lamented their front office’s staid approach in the past, but the evidence could not be clearer: Most of the executives spending big this week are playing a loser’s game. Just look at the four free agents — quarterback Kirk Cousins to the Atlanta Falcons, defensive tackle Christian Wilkins to the Las Vegas Raiders, guard Robert Hunt to the Carolina Panthers and wide receiver Calvin Ridley to the Titans — who signed deals worth more than $90 million at this time last year. Not one of their teams finished with a winning record. Targeted strikes can yield gold as the Ravens and Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles demonstrated when they dipped into a relatively depressed running back market to snap up superstars Derrick Henry and Saquon Barkley, respectively. But the teams sucked into bidding wars for non-premium talents — in other words, most of the players who reach free agency — doom themselves to the NFL’s version of Groundhog Day. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Ravens CB Brandon Stephens reportedly signing with Jets in free agency Baltimore Ravens | Ravens versatile lineman Patrick Mekari signing with Jaguars in free agency Baltimore Ravens | Ravens 2025 free agency tracker: Who’s coming, going and staying Baltimore Ravens | Baltimore shop owners say Orioles and Ravens vintage wear has ‘exploded’ Baltimore Ravens | READER POLL: How far will Maryland men’s basketball advance in Big Ten Tournament? Which is not to say there’s no pain attached to a more disciplined approach. When the Ravens prioritized Stanley, they effectively said goodbye to another offensive line stalwart, Patrick Mekari, who agreed to a three-year, $37.5 million deal with the Jacksonville Jaguars on Monday. Over six seasons with the Ravens, Mekari started at every offensive line position. He stepped into the breach as a starting guard (the position he’d played least) last year and not only played well but proved his body could hold up to a 19-game (including the postseason) workload. He was an intelligent, dependable, slyly funny figure in the locker room. Would the Ravens have liked to keep Mekari for the rest of his career? Certainly. Were they going to pay what the Jaguars did for a guard who had started one season? Nope. DeCosta foreshadowed as much when he spoke to reporters at the NFL scouting combine last month. “I mean, you guys know the Ravens. [It has to be] the right player [and] right price. We don’t have a lot of cap room. … We call it ‘couch cushion coins.’ We’re trying to find 50 grand here, 75 grand there under a couch cushion,” he said. “But we’re not a team that’s going to make a lot of splashes, generally speaking.” As of late Monday afternoon, the Ravens lost Mekari and cornerback Brandon Stephens, who played 92% of the team’s defensive snaps last season but struggled to build on his 2023 breakout. They added no one amid the initial frenzy, and it won’t be a shock if that remains their story for the next several days as DeCosta waits to see what veteran bargains are left over at cornerback, safety, edge rusher and guard. They’ll add a few potential contributors, in some cases as late as July or August, and rely on next month’s draft to rebuild their depth. Any flashy headlines they make will likely relate to extensions or restructures for players such as Henry, quarterback Lamar Jackson or 2022 first-round picks Kyle Hamilton and Tyler Linderbaum. For the time being, their best way to win the game of free agency is not to play. Have a news tip? Contact Childs Walker at daviwalker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6893 and x.com/ChildsWalker. View the full article

Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta said that cornerback Brandon Stephens would have a chance to test the free-agent market. It paid off in a big way for the 2021 third-round pick. Stephens is signing a three-year, $36 million deal with the New York Jets, with $23 million of the contract guaranteed, according to ESPN. That makes him the 19th-highest paid corner in the NFL, per Over The Cap, in average annual value, just behind the Philadelphia Eagles’ James Bradberry, at least for now. It also comes after he took a step backward with his coverage in 2024. Once considered a candidate for a contract extension after a strong 2023, Stephens allowed 65 catches on 96 targets (fifth-most in the NFL) for 806 yards (second-most) last season, according to Pro Football Focus. While he was lauded by coaches for being “sticky” in coverage, they also acknowledged that he struggled to locate the ball, something that seemed to get worse as the year wore on and was particularly evident on throws downfield. He also did not have an interception and his 55.8 overall grade by PFF ranked 153rd out of 223 cornerbacks. Stephens appeared in 65 games for Baltimore over the past four years, which included 48 starts. He also moved from safety to cornerback, which he played full-time the past two seasons, and last year had two interceptions to go with a 69.2 overall grade from PFF. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Ravens versatile lineman Patrick Mekari signing with Jaguars in free agency Baltimore Ravens | Ravens 2025 free agency tracker: Who’s coming, going and staying Baltimore Ravens | Baltimore shop owners say Orioles and Ravens vintage wear has ‘exploded’ Baltimore Ravens | READER POLL: How far will Maryland men’s basketball advance in Big Ten Tournament? Baltimore Ravens | Ravens re-sign LT Ronnie Stanley just ahead of start of free agency His leaving is also perhaps addition by subtraction: The Ravens will get a compensatory draft pick for Stephens in 2026 because he was a third-round selection. With Stephens’ departure, Baltimore now has an immediate need at outside corner. Nate Wiggins and Marlon Humphrey are the Ravens’ top two cornerbacks, but Humphrey excelled in the slot, where he was an All-Pro last season. Veteran Tre’Davious White could be one option, though he’s also a free agent. Jalyn Armour-Davis, who is entering his fourth season but has struggled to stay healthy, and T.J. Tampa, a rookie who also battled injuries last season, are also possibilities, though it’s likely DeCosta will turn to the draft to add to the position. Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. View the full article

The Ravens’ most versatile lineman over the past six seasons will play elsewhere next season. Patrick Mekari, who started at right tackle and then left guard last season, has agreed to a three-year, $37.5 million deal with the Jacksonville Jaguars, a source with direct knowledge of the contract confirmed to The Baltimore Sun on Monday, the start of the NFL’s legal tampering period. Mekari’s deal includes more than $20 million of guaranteed money. Players can’t sign contracts until the start of free agency on Wednesday at 4 p.m. It is also not surprising that the 27-year-old former undrafted free agent out of California who is now on his third contract is moving on. Mekari’s agreeing to sign with the Jaguars comes after the Ravens signed left tackle Ronnie Stanley to a three-year, $60 million contract extension that includes $44 million guaranteed over the first two years just days before Stanley was also due to hit the open market. That ostensibly made Mekari unaffordable for the Ravens, who before re-signing Stanley had just over $12 million in salary cap space and need to make a number of other moves to be cap compliant by the start of the new league year, also on Wednesday. Still, Mekari’s loss is a blow for Baltimore. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Ravens CB Brandon Stephens reportedly signing with Jets in free agency Baltimore Ravens | Ravens 2025 free agency tracker: Who’s coming, going and staying Baltimore Ravens | Baltimore shop owners say Orioles and Ravens vintage wear has ‘exploded’ Baltimore Ravens | READER POLL: How far will Maryland men’s basketball advance in Big Ten Tournament? Baltimore Ravens | Ravens re-sign LT Ronnie Stanley just ahead of start of free agency After playing all over the Ravens’ offensive line as a sixth man and sometimes starter, he began last season as the starter at right tackle amid a revamped lineup. When left guard Andrew Vorhees suffered an ankle injury three games in, Mekari seamlessly took over and never relinquished the job, with rookie Roger Rosengarten settling in at right tackle. It marked the first time that Mekari started every game in a season and his 71.6 pass-blocking grade, per Pro Football Focus, ranked 17th among guards (minimum 500 pass-blocking snaps) and his pass block win rate of 95%, per ESPN analytics, ranked 18th among all interior lineman last season. He also allowed just one sack and his versatility allows him to play any position on the line. But with Vorhees entering his second full season and expected to be healthy, the third-year player out of USC will be the front-runner to start at left guard again. As for Mekari, he departs Baltimore having appeared in 88 regular-season games, including 53 starts. Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. View the full article

With nearly 20 unrestricted free agents, a few restricted free agents, salary cap cuts and contracts to be extended or reworked, it’s a busy time on the business side of things for the Ravens. The NFL’s legal tampering period began Monday at noon, which is when teams can officially meet with representatives of free agents. Free agency won’t technically begin until Wednesday at 4 p.m., which is when the new league year begins and when players can put ink to paper, but many deals will already be in place by then. We’ll update the Ravens’ signings, departures and notable moves in the offseason here. March 8: Ronnie Stanley staying in Baltimore By far the Ravens’ most important free agent, the Pro Bowl left tackle never reached the open market, signing a three-year, $60 million extension that notably will pay him a guaranteed $22 million each of the first two years of the deal. While predictions on whether Stanley would stay or go were all over the place, the reality is that the two parties are comfortable with each other and that was an advantage the Ravens had over other organizations. So, too, was the fact they are a perennial Super Bowl contender, something that eliminated potential suitors. It was also an important move in keeping $260 million quarterback Lamar Jackson happy as well as healthy in a division replete with elite pass rushers. Even with Stanley set to turn 31 later this month and a significant injury history that lingers in the not-too-distant past, getting this deal done was something Baltimore probably had to do. The free agent class is not strong and the draft not deep at the position. This article will be updated. Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Baltimore shop owners say Orioles and Ravens vintage wear has ‘exploded’ Baltimore Ravens | READER POLL: How far will Maryland men’s basketball advance in Big Ten Tournament? Baltimore Ravens | Ravens re-sign LT Ronnie Stanley just ahead of start of free agency Baltimore Ravens | Ravens 2025 free agent guide: With Ronnie Stanley back, what’s next? Baltimore Ravens | Hot Property: $3.8M Ravens retreat in Howard County View the full article

It was a fundamental tenet of sports fandom. How coaches and players dressed, in matching regalia with the same fearsome logos like they were headed into battle, was how fans wanted to dress. That’s changed. Surging popularity behind sports vintage wear is steering the cultural shift. And Baltimore is having its moment. MJ Broderick owns a vintage clothing store walking distance from Camden Yards and M&T Bank Stadium, so he’ll get a healthy influx of customers on game days and occasionally buy his own tickets. It was within the past few years that Retrospect’s owner noticed more fans upping their game day fits. “When I go to a Ravens tailgate or an Orioles game,” he said, “the amount of vintage is nuts.” According to Google Trends, search interest in Orioles vintage wear has seen an uptick over each of the past five summers. Same goes for the Ravens, with more and more fans scouring for places to find unique vintage wear to support their favorite teams. More broadly, according to a 2024 resale industry report by California online resale platform, thredUP, the global secondhand apparel market is growing three times faster than the overall global apparel market. The $141 billion business is projected to have more than doubled by next year. “It’s exploded,” Rebecca Madariaga said. Rebecca Madariaga, left, co-founded the popular vintage wear store The Charmers Club with Lindsay Street, right. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff) Madariaga is one of a few leading the charge in Baltimore. She started Charm City Threads in 2013 as her senior project at Towson University, which she parlayed into a brand collecting and creating sports merchandise “for people to wear that represented the city.” She moved to Remington and hosted a yard sale. That’s where she met Lindsay Street, a fellow fashion aficionado. In 2022, the two opened The Charmers Club, first as a pop-up shop before settling into a Charles Village brick-and-mortar last year — the kind of store you walk in greeted by fun fonts and colors that feel out of place in 2025. These vintage shops don’t corner themselves to the market of only reselling clothes made before 2010. There’s far more artistry to the craft. For Charm City Threads, about a quarter of the inventory is uniquely designed. The rest starts with sourcing materials. Depending on the state of the piece, it might get sold as is or turned into something fresh and fun. That’s called upcycling. Upcycling is the process of refurbishing older materials to create a unique piece of clothing. Here’s a good example: Madariaga grabbed a dark green jersey off the rack. Having sourced letters from various throwaway Orioles jerseys and an orange No. 5, she flipped a cheap blank into a Brooks Robinson jersey. Rebecca Madariaga up-cycled this Brooks Robinson jersey with vintage letters. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff) Here’s another: Arvay Adams, who runs 1719 Aliceanna in Fells Point, plucked one of his favorites of a similar construct. He took a plain denim bucket hat and spruced it up with a patch reminiscent of the Orioles’ international minor league team logo of the 1950s and yellow flowers all around. Last season, Adams fashioned orange letters spelling out “They Not Like Us” — a reference to the Kendrick Lamar song — on the back of an Orioles City Connect jersey. “You show up at the stadium, no one’s gonna have it,” Adams said. “That’s kind of what I beat my chest on.” 1719 Aliceanna is the storefront location for Adams’ brand, The Sporting Life. It’s a mix of used, vintage, custom and dead stock (old stuff that has never been worn or used) but Adams prides himself on custom chain stitching, prioritizing Ravens and Orioles. He’s a bit of a history buff too, which makes it more fun to plug and play designs with a backstory. Adams once housed a bountiful collection of clothes and memorabilia spanning the history of the local ballclub. “I used to always have Orioles stuff,” Adams said. “I don’t now. Last year was ridiculous.” He sold off just about his entire collection to meet rising demand. Orioles MerchandiseKim Hairston/Baltimore SunArvay Adams, owner of 1719 Aliceanna, a sports merchandise store in Fells Point, wears an Orioles jacket from the 1990s and a 1950s-style international minor league Orioles baseball cap. He stocks vintage apparel, trading cards, collectibles and other sports-related items. (Kim Hairston/Staff) Broderick faced a similar challenge this winter. He’d stock up on Ravens shirts and jackets only for a line out the door to clear his inventory. It’s tougher to find old Ravens merch considering the team is still on the younger side of 30. Broderick’s favorite piece is a T-shirt specific to 1995 that says “Baltimore Football” with a question mark inside a helmet from shortly before the Ravens were born. There’s a particular interest in the two teams’ old logos. The Orioles have a longer history of different looking Oriole birds, ornithologically correct and not. The Ravens lack a deep bench of past insignias. But any vintage store owner will tell you customers pine for the original “Flying B.” Copyright issues forced the Ravens to abandon it in 1998, making it harder to find — like a precious artifact. This proverbial shift in Baltimore is part of a larger, two-pronged trend. Related Articles Baltimore Orioles | Orange on orange: Orioles bring back retro pants with monochrome alternate uniforms Baltimore Orioles | When could the Orioles’ injured players return? Here’s what we know. Baltimore Orioles | Orioles observations on Tomoyuki Sugano’s dominance, a small-ball rally and more from doubleheader Baltimore Orioles | Orioles shutting down Grayson Rodriguez after cortisone shot in elbow Baltimore Orioles | Amid injury rehab, Orioles’ Félix Bautista turned to Ramón, Pedro Martínez family Fans want to show up to games wearing something different. Vying for a look that stands out in a crowd — an approach as old as fashion — began permeating ballparks and stadiums. There’s a coolness factor to the fleeting thick lines and bold colors. “90s MLB popped off,” Madariaga said. In some cases, the recent trend was born out of nostalgia — like finding a T-shirt that grandpa used to wear to Memorial Stadium — but not always. “There is nostalgia, for sure,” said Street, who operates on the non-sports side of vintage wear. “And then there are even younger folks who maybe weren’t around for that, I think they’re becoming slightly smarter consumers.” The rise of fast fashion — a method of manufacturing large quantities of clothing quickly and cheaply — has driven some consumers to seek out older, high-quality clothes. “Nothing is made to last anymore,” Broderick said. So by buying local and vintage, each shop owner will tell you, customers are doing the right thing whether they intend to or not. “It’s more well made, way more sustainable and possibly unique. A real win-win,” Street said. “Yes, vintage has exploded but I think for a lot of the right reasons and not necessarily just a cool, hip trend.” Have a news tip? Contact Sam Cohn at scohn@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/samdcohn. View the full article

Maryland men’s basketball is peaking at the right time. The No. 13 Terps are heading into the Big Ten Tournament winners of 11 of their past 13 games and will be the No. 2 seed in Indianapolis. They earned a coveted double-bye and will face a to-be-determined opponent in the quarterfinals. We want to hear from you. How far will Maryland go? After you vote, leave a comment and we might use your take in The Baltimore Sun. The Baltimore Sun reader poll is an unscientific survey in which website users volunteer their opinions on the subject of the poll. To read the results of previous reader polls, click here. View the full article

Ronnie Stanley is staying with the Ravens. Baltimore signed the Pro Bowl left tackle to a contract extension Saturday worth $60 million over three years with $44 million guaranteed over the first two years, a source with direct knowledge of the deal confirmed to The Baltimore Sun. The move comes less than 48 hours before Stanley was set to become an unrestricted free agent. The NFL’s legal tampering period, which is when teams can begin contacting representatives of pending free agents, begins Monday at noon, and players can officially sign contracts beginning Wednesday at 4 p.m. That deal makes Stanley, for the moment, the eighth-highest paid left tackle in the league in terms of average annual salary, along with the Detroit Lions’ Taylor Decker and just ahead of the Los Angeles Rams’ Alaric Jackson, who signed a three-year, $57 million extension two weeks ago. The Kansas City Chiefs, Washington Commanders and New England Patriots were among the teams reportedly interested in Stanley had he reached the open market. But he never got there, with salary-cap stretched Baltimore deciding it was worth the splurge to retain the services of the former All-Pro and quarterback Lamar Jackson’s familiar blindside protector — and Stanley preferring to stay with the only organization he’s ever been with. It helped, too, that Stanley, whom the Ravens drafted sixth overall out of Notre Dame in 2016, was coming off his best season in a while. After a down year in 2023 in which he rotated in and out down the stretch, he rebounded in a big way this past season. He allowed just two sacks, per Pro Football Focus, and ranked 12th among tackles in ESPN’s pass block win rate. Importantly, Stanley, who has a long injury history with 36 games missed since 2020, showed that he could stay healthy. Last season, he didn’t miss a game for the first time in his career. He was also on the field for 98% of the offense’s plays and logged a career-high 1,089 snaps. “I thought it was very motivating to get back to what I expect myself to be,” Stanley said last October. “The performance I had in the past were always something that gave me something to work harder and make sure I never go back to that place I was.” Ravens left tackle Ronnie Stanley didn’t miss a game for the first time in his career last season. (Kim Hairston/Staff) His play earned him a Pro Bowl selection (as an alternate), he was a valuable mentor to the team’s younger linemen and no doubt helped pave the way for one of the league’s most explosive offenses. “Ronnie Stanley deserves so much credit,” coach John Harbaugh said during the season. “He’s really having a good year, and he’s got a lot of football left in him. I expect him to keep improving. I think he’s going to keep on the rise.” With Jackson and running back Derrick Henry leading the way, the Ravens led the NFL in yards per game (426.5), became the first team in NFL history to throw for at least 4,000 yards and run for at least 3,000 in the same season and their 7,224 total yards ranked third all-time. Baltimore also ranked 15th in pressure rate allowed and Jackson was sacked just 23 times on his way to a career-high 4,172 yards passing and franchise-record 41 touchdown passes. But bringing Stanley back also comes with risk. He will turn 31 this month and concerns about his injury history aren’t completely eradicated after 2024. In 2020, Stanley suffered a season-ending ankle injury seven games into the season. The following year, his season was wiped out again as he underwent surgery on the same ankle one game into the schedule. Problems continued to pile up, too, as he missed six games in 2022 because of his ankle injury and four more in 2023 because of a knee injury. Between his struggles to stay healthy and poor play, Stanley also took a $7.5 million pay cut before last season with the Ravens needing to create salary cap space and the veteran needing to prove that he would be worth another big investment. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Ravens 2025 free agent guide: With Ronnie Stanley back, what’s next? Baltimore Ravens | Hot Property: $3.8M Ravens retreat in Howard County Baltimore Ravens | Ray Rice aims to show next generation his ‘willingness to make it right’ Baltimore Ravens | The Ravens’ Mark Andrews dilemma and potential options they’re considering Baltimore Ravens | Ravens likely choosing between re-signing Ronnie Stanley or Patrick Mekari He delivered with one of his best seasons yet. His 70.7 PFF overall grade was his highest since 2021 and his 80.9 pass blocking mark ranked 12th among all tackles (minimum 1,000 snaps) last season. Stanley’s return, however, also means the Ravens could have a new starter at left guard once again. Versatile offensive lineman Patrick Mekari, who replaced Andrew Vorhees following an ankle injury four games into last season, is also set to become a free agent. After starting all 17 games — first at right tackle, then at left guard — and playing well, he is projected to fetch a three-year deal worth $8.68 million a season, per PFF, on the open market. Already, several teams have expressed interest in the former undrafted free agent who will turn 28 in August. Given Baltimore’s salary cap constraints and other needs, it figures to be difficult to keep him, especially with Vorhees expected to be fully healthy for next season. Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. 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When it comes to navigating free agency and constructing a roster to field a perennially competitive team, the Ravens have a seemingly simple philosophy. “You guys know the Ravens,” general manager Eric DeCosta said at the NFL scouting combine in Indianapolis two weeks ago. “Right player, right price.” It is, of course, much more nuanced than that, but there is a telling construct within the words. Said DeCosta: “We’re not a team that’s going to make a lot of splashes, generally speaking.” With around a projected $12 million in salary cap space, per Russell Street Report, as the NFL’s legal tampering period officially opens Monday at noon with contracts able to be executed beginning Wednesday at 4 p.m., Baltimore simply can’t afford to. Still, there are several moves that can be made to clear up more space through extensions, restructures and releases, some likely bargains to be had on the market and the matter of keeping some of their own free agents, of which there are 18 unrestricted. With needs at several positions — edge rusher, defensive line, cornerback, safety, wide receiver among them — and only so much wiggle room, DeCosta and vice president of football administration Nick Matteo will have to chart their path, as usual, tightly. A $23.8 million increase to bring the league’s salary cap to $279.2 million helps, but that’s true for every team. Here are six things to keep an eye on with the Ravens as the free agency frenzy begins. Offensive line again a big focus If this feels like a perennial need, that’s because it often is. Two offseasons ago, guard Ben Powers bolted for the Denver Broncos in free agency. Last offseason, guards Kevin Zeitler and John Simpson departed similarly and right tackle Morgan Moses was traded. This year, left tackle Ronnie Stanley and versatile lineman Patrick Mekari, who took over as the starting left guard four games into last season, are scheduled to hit free agency. Brining back Stanley has been a priority. Presuming the Ravens do, that could spell the end of Mekari’s time in Baltimore because he might be unaffordable. If they are jilted by Stanley, though, DeCosta could quickly shift to trying to keep Mekari, who can play guard or tackle. Cornerbacks wanted Baltimore has Marlon Humphrey, Nate Wiggins, Jalyn Armour-Davis and T.J. Tampa. But with Brandon Stephens, Tre’Davious White, Trayvon Mullen all unrestricted free agents, Christian Matthew a restricted free agent and Arthur Maulet a possible salary cap casualty, the Ravens will also be in the market. Again, if it seems as if they always are, it’s because the organization’s belief is that it can never have enough cornerbacks. But don’t expect any big splashes here. Instead, look for Baltimore to potentially bring back White and rely on the draft and the veteran free agent market to fill its needs, particularly at outside corner. Ravens coach John Harbaugh, left, and general manager Eric DeCosta are looking for free agents who can immediately contribute to the goal of winning a Super Bowl. Adding cornerback depth is expected to be an offseason priority for the franchise in its pursuit of a championship. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) What about edge rusher and/or defensive line? Beyond Kyle Van Noy, who will turn 34 later this month, and Odafe Oweh, the Ravens are light on edge defenders who have proven they can get to the quarterback. There are some notable names available, including Khalil Mack, Joey Bosa, Josh Sweat, Haason Reddick, Malcolm Koonce, Dayo Odeyingbo, Chase Young and Harold Landry. But all of them are probably out of the price range. Look for them to then instead add through the draft and potentially turn to a veteran free agent down the line as they have in the past, though it’s not a deep group at the salary they would likely be looking at. Help needed at safety Marcus Williams is expected to be released, Ar’Darius Washington is a restricted free agent and unproven Sanoussi Kane and Beau Brade are the only other safeties on the roster besides Pro Bowl selection Kyle Hamilton. What happens with Washington will be worth watching (more on that below), but even if he’s back, it would not be surprising to see Baltimore look to free agency to bolster the group. They’d have options. The Las Vegas Raiders’ Tre’von Moehrig is one player that has been mentioned (which probably means he won’t end up in Baltimore), and he would be a solid addition. Over the past two seasons, he’s had five interceptions and 18 pass breakups to go with three sacks and five quarterback hits. But at a projected four years and $15 million per season, per Pro Football Focus, can Baltimore really afford him given the likely top of market coming Hamilton’s way? Cheaper veteran and short-term options, meanwhile, could perhaps include Justin Simmons or Andre Cisco. Other looming decisions The Ravens would obviously like to bring back Washington, who had easily his best year (64 tackles and two interceptions) in what was his fourth season since signing as an undrafted free agent out of TCU in 2021. But as an undrafted free agent with three accrued seasons, they also have a choice to make. They could use a second-round tender (worth $5.35 million) or a right of first refusal tender (worth $3.26 million). Under the first option, if Washington gets an offer from another team and Baltimore decides not to match, it would receive a second-round draft pick. With the second, cheaper option, there is no draft pick compensation if the Ravens decide not to match another team’s offer. An extension takes all of that off the table and keeps Washington with the Ravens longer. Baltimore also faces a choice with center Tyler Linderbaum, who, like Hamilton, is entering the final year of his rookie contract. As a two-time Pro Bowl selection and a 2022 first-round pick, Linderbaum would have a fifth-year option at the cost of $23.4 million. That’s very close to what the franchise tag would be next offseason if Baltimore simply declined the fifth-year option and tagged him a year from now. The key part of the latter: The tag, which can be used to extend the negotiating window for an extension, can be pulled, allowing the player to become a free agent. Teams have until May 2 to exercise the fifth-year option. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Hot Property: $3.8M Ravens retreat in Howard County Baltimore Ravens | Ray Rice aims to show next generation his ‘willingness to make it right’ Baltimore Ravens | The Ravens’ Mark Andrews dilemma and potential options they’re considering Baltimore Ravens | Ravens likely choosing between re-signing Ronnie Stanley or Patrick Mekari Baltimore Ravens | NFL mock draft (Version 3.0): Two-round projections after scouting combine What Ravens could return? Despite a large free agent class and a desire to often keep their own players, only a handful or so of this year’s group seems likely to return. In addition to Stanley, fullback/tight end Patrick Ricard has the potential to be back. Only around half of the teams in the NFL utilize a fullback, while the All-Pro would like to retire as a Raven after he was an integral part of a historic offense last season. With an average annual value of $3.75 million when he re-signed with Baltimore in 2022, he’s already the third-highest paid fullback in the league with only $800,000 separating him from the top spot occupied by 49ers star and former Raven Kyle Juszccyk. Meanwhile, linebackers Malik Harrison and Chris Board check all the boxes the Ravens like: relative low cost, versatility (including on special teams) and experience. Likewise, White provides depth to the cornerback rotation. Tylan Wallace does the same for a thin wide receiver group with the added bonus of being a significant contributor on special teams and well-liked locker room presence. Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. View the full article

Address: 13951 Hallowell Court, Dayton List price: $3,800,000 Year built: 2018 Real estate agent: Melanie Gamble, 212 Degrees Realty Last sold price/date: None Property size: 4.07 acres Unique features: What kind of home do Ravens players want? This handsome colonial belonged to Eugene Monroe, a former lineman for the team who settled on the four-acre estate on a wooded cul-de-sac near Triadelphia Reservoir in Howard County. The sprawling residence boasts nearly 12,000 square feet of living space, including a generous fitness center the size of a small apartment. 13951 Hallowell Court is in Dayton, Maryland. (HomeVisit) 13951 Hallowell Court is in Dayton, Maryland. (HomeVisit) 13951 Hallowell Court is in Dayton, Maryland. (HomeVisit) 13951 Hallowell Court is in Dayton, Maryland. (HomeVisit) 13951 Hallowell Court is in Dayton, Maryland. (HomeVisit) 13951 Hallowell Court is in Dayton, Maryland. (HomeVisit) 13951 Hallowell Court is in Dayton, Maryland. (HomeVisit) 13951 Hallowell Court is in Dayton, Maryland. (HomeVisit) 13951 Hallowell Court is in Dayton, Maryland. (HomeVisit) 13951 Hallowell Court is in Dayton, Maryland. (HomeVisit) Show Caption1 of 1013951 Hallowell Court is in Dayton, Maryland. (HomeVisit) Expand The two-story foyer leads to an airy, top-tier home with five bedrooms, six full bathrooms and four half-baths. There are lofty ceilings, wood floors and plenty of creature comforts. Besides the 1,200-square-foot basement gym, there’s a gourmet kitchen, two remote-controlled gas fireplaces and an elevator (with phone). There’s a cutting-edge sound system, weatherproof speakers, an outdoor hot tub, powder room and television. The in-ground swimming pool has a curvy bluestone slide, and there’s a stone fire pit to take the chill off, or toast S’mores. Clearly, posh can be practical. On the wraparound porch are bench swings that can flex into beds. An attached three-car garage includes an electric vehicle charging station. Above a separate, two-car garage sits a fully equipped guest suite with its own kitchen, bath and laundry facilities. A home humidifier, whole-house generator and water filtration system add a sense of security. This is a welcome retreat following a Ravens game, win or lose. Have a news tip? Contact Mike Klingaman at jklingaman@baltsun.com and 410-332-6456. View the full article

Ray Rice moved back to the Baltimore area a few years ago feeling he had “unfinished business” with the community that had adopted him during his six seasons as a star running back with the Ravens. Rice knows that for some people, he will always be defined by how his career ended. The Ravens released him in 2014 after TMZ posted video of him striking his future wife in an Atlantic City casino elevator. The NFL suspended him, and though he was subsequently reinstated, Rice never played another snap. He does not shy away from that part of his story. In fact, as Rice prepares for a new role as junior varsity football coach at Milford Mill Academy, he believes his mistakes make him the perfect person to help 15- and 16-year-old boys work on themselves. He has been doing this for years in one form or another, working with domestic violence awareness organizations and speaking to younger players, including each Ravens rookie class, about his experiences. But as his first career faded into the rearview and as he turned his attention to his own children, 13-year-old daughter Rayven and 8-year-old son Jaylen, Rice craved a more formal job in which he could teach football and life to aspiring players who might walk the same path he did. “I’m at the point in my life where I feel like I want to serve the next generation,” he said Wednesday, speaking at Milford Mill before the school celebrated the 2025 college commitments of its senior football players. “I just feel like there were things in my own world where if someone had gotten to me before high school, that’s where you really want to make the difference.” He noted that he was a “public school kid” growing up in New Rochelle, New York, and that he doesn’t like the negativity he hears when some people talk about public school academics and athletics. “I want to help shape that narrative to something different,” the 38-year-old former Pro Bowl ball carrier said. Rice has known Milford Mill’s football coach, former NFL defensive lineman Reggie White, for years. Several youth league players Rice coached in Pikesville went on to the Millers. When he talked to White about joining Milford’s staff, he said JV would be the perfect level. “That’s the group,” he said. “Ninth grade is no time for screwing up. You can’t start your high school journey behind, because you’ll always be playing catch-up.” White has no doubt Rice will command players’ attention. “Instant credibility. He knows Ray Lewis. He knows Ed Reed,” the Milford Mill coach said. “He has a story to tell. A lot of people don’t understand with football that we’re seeing these guys from 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. during the season. That’s a lot of time every day for five months, and you’re not talking about football that whole time. You’re talking about life, home, school, girlfriend, boyfriend. There’s so much that we pour into these kids.” Former Ravens running back Ray Rice, shown alongside his family in 2024, has shared appreciation for how the Baltimore community has welcomed him back after a domestic violence incident effectively ended his NFL career. (Kevin Richardson/Staff) With help from expert counselors, Rice has thought a lot about his childhood — why he became the person he did. He was highly responsible in some ways, helping to pay household bills as early as age 11. On the field, he was a ball of lightning swift fury, perpetually reinforced for his achievements, which led him to stardom at Rutgers and for the Ravens. But that success helped him ignore other parts of himself that needed attention and work. He said he never learned to ask for help. “A man at 11, a boy at 21,” he said, summing himself up. He aims to make sure his players at Milford Mill don’t overlook the self-care and work they need off the field. He hopes they’ll see in him “a willingness to make it right but to make it right for the long term.” “Life is best understood in reverse,” Rice said. “So what I’m able to do in my world now is just pour back in things that I went back and fixed in my own world. And another thing I’m a big believer in is showing them better than you can tell them.” That might mean listening to a player’s life struggles during a quiet moment. It might also mean running sprints side by side with his athletes in the heat of summer. For all his talk of nurturing, Rice does not sound like he’ll be easy going about the business of football. Asked what nuggets he might pull from past mentors, he repeated a phrase from his coach at New Rochelle High School: “Too many pats on the back set you back.” In other words, reward young athletes for performing well but known when it’s time to “peel back” and get real about the work still to be done. That didn’t make sense to Rice when he was 17 years old, scoring touchdowns by the bundle. It hit home a decade later, when he realized there were flaws he had never addressed because he lived in an acclaim bubble. Rice made a point Wednesday of saying he wanted to do this work in the Baltimore area, where he and his wife, Janay, have settled their family for the long haul. He noted how thankful he was when people in the community welcomed him back in the wake of his highly public downfall. The Ravens, too, began inviting him back to speak with players, enjoy alumni events and ultimately serve as a “Legend of the Game” late in the 2023 season. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | The Ravens’ Mark Andrews dilemma and potential options they’re considering Baltimore Ravens | Ravens likely choosing between re-signing Ronnie Stanley or Patrick Mekari Baltimore Ravens | NFL mock draft (Version 3.0): Two-round projections after scouting combine Baltimore Ravens | READER POLL: Which young Orioles player will break out in 2025? Baltimore Ravens | 5 things we learned about the Ravens at the NFL scouting combine “I’ve always felt genuine love,” he said. “To the point where, when I came back, there were fans who said, ‘I didn’t like what you did, but I appreciate the willingness to be able to change your narrative.’ And that’s just real. This is a real place.” He hopes to introduce a new mantra at Milford Mill: “Asking for help is a superpower.” Words that speak directly to the teenager Rice was two decades ago. “I was struggling in high school, but I wasn’t struggling on the field,” he recalled. “I was struggling trying to figure out who I was.” If he had known whom to ask and how to ask, he said, maybe he could have avoided a lot of the pain he felt and caused. “I didn’t have that internal structure in high school where I should have asked for a little bit of help,” Rice said. “That’s where I wish that I could have done things differently. But that’s what I really want them to do: ask for help.” Have a news tip? Contact Childs Walker at daviwalker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6893 and x.com/ChildsWalker. View the full article

March 17 will of course mark the annual cultural and religious celebration of Saint Patrick. It’s an important date for the Ravens, too. That’s when Mark Andrews is due a $4 million roster bonus, and with the tight end slated to count $16.9 million against the salary cap next season light-on-cap-space Baltimore could have a decision to make. At last week’s NFL scouting combine in Indianapolis, Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta was asked about the future of the three-time Pro Bowl selection and 2021 All-Pro. “Mark is a great player,” he said. “Mark is going to go down as one of our great players. He’ll be in the Ring of Honor someday. I love having Mark on the team — he’s an amazing player. I know he’s going to have an amazing season. “We’ll figure out all of the roster machinations over the coming weeks, but I can tell you, there’s no bigger fan of Mark Andrews than me. He’s been a blessing to have on the team.” Andrews, who will turn 30 in September, is entering the final year of a four-year, $56 million contract. He’s also coming off one of the most discomfiting if not vexing seasons of his seven-year NFL career. In the Ravens’ divisional round loss to the Buffalo Bills, he dropped a would-be game-tying 2-point conversion with 93 seconds remaining, and his fumble in Bills territory earlier in the fourth quarter led to what ended up being a decisive field goal. During the regular season, his 39.6 receiving yards per game were the fewest since his rookie year, he had back-to-back games without a catch for the first time in his career, failed top 70 yards in any game for the first time and was shut out of the end zone through the first five weeks (though he did finish with a team-high 11 touchdown receptions, which included a team record six straight games with a touchdown catch). Now the Ravens have to figure out what to do moving forward with a player who is first in franchise history in touchdowns (51), second in receiving yards (5,530), third in catches (436) and has long been quarterback Lamar Jackson’s security blanket since the two entered the league in 2018. The options are myriad. Baltimore, which currently has just over $12 million in cap space but is trying to work out what would be an expensive contract extension with Pro Bowl left tackle Ronnie Stanley, among other free agent needs, could rework Andrews’ contract with a pay cut. That’s what happened last year with Stanley after he had a disappointing 2023. With depth behind Andrews in ascendant tight end Isaiah Likely as well as Charlie Kolar — both of whom are extension eligible this year — the Ravens could also release him, which would clear up $11 million in cap space. But as one of the best players at his position in the league, a hugely respected presence in the locker room and within the organization, along with a $5.9 million dead cap hit, that would be as short-sighted as it would be unlikely. Trading Andrews is also an avenue the Ravens could explore. His production and modest $7 million salary (currently 12th among tight ends) would make him a potentially attractive target for teams and Baltimore would clear valuable cap space along with gaining draft capital in a class that is considered to be deep. However, would dealing him for, say, a mid third-round pick, be worth the return in exchange for a cohesive player that is a significant part of a Super Bowl contending team? This is something Baltimore would have to weigh. To be clear, the Ravens could also simply do nothing, instead choosing to let Andrews play out the season and become a free agent next offseason. If he leaves in free agency, they’d likely get a mid-round compensatory draft pick for 2027 in return. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Ravens likely choosing between re-signing Ronnie Stanley or Patrick Mekari Baltimore Ravens | NFL mock draft (Version 3.0): Two-round projections after scouting combine Baltimore Ravens | READER POLL: Which young Orioles player will break out in 2025? Baltimore Ravens | 5 things we learned about the Ravens at the NFL scouting combine Baltimore Ravens | Should the NFL ban the tush push? Ravens’ John Harbaugh and others weigh in. Or, they could sign him to an extension. That would lower his cap hit for 2025 and keep him in Baltimore for probably the next 2-3 years, though it would also potentially cast uncertainty about the future of Likely given that the Ravens would unlikely be able to afford both players long term. Still, an extension could be possible and talks between the two sides on potential scenarios were described as “positive,” a source with direct knowledge of the conversations told The Baltimore Sun this week. Whatever happens, though, a decision on Andrews is expected to play out in the coming months and should be clear before next season begins. Put another way, it would not be unrealistic to think there’s a good chance Andrews will be in a Ravens uniform for at least 2025. “Mark is a huge part of our future,” Ravens coach Harbaugh said at the team’s season-ending news conference in January. “We love him, and we’re there for him.” Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. View the full article

The Ravens like to hold on to homegrown players when they can. It hasn’t always worked out, but it has been a fruitful philosophy over the years, from Pro Football Hall of Famer Ray Lewis to two-time NFL Most Valuable Player Lamar Jackson, among others. One of the dilemmas of this offseason, however, is that they might have to choose between two longtime offensive linemen who, to this point, have spent their entire careers in Baltimore. Put another way, will the Ravens decide to keep left tackle Ronnie Stanley or left guard Patrick Mekari? Both are pending unrestricted free agents. Monday is when representatives of players due to hit the open market can begin hearing from other teams, and two days later is when those players can officially sign contracts. Given the play of each last season — Stanley was a Pro Bowl selection and Mekari proved more than just a versatile sixth man, starting all 17 games first at right tackle and then at left guard — they are both due to get healthy raises, which will likely force salary cap-strapped Baltimore to choose one over the other. Currently, the Ravens have just over $12 million in cap space, according to Over The Cap, a number that will increase with contract restructures, extensions and players being released. Still, with Stanley projected by Pro Football Focus to land a two-year deal worth $20 million per season and Mekari projected to get a three-year contract worth $8.68 million per season, keeping both would likely be cost-prohibitive — particularly with Pro Bowl center Tyler Linderbaum and Pro Bowl safety Kyle Hamilton in the final year of their respective rookie deals and extension-eligible, among other salary constraints. So what will the Ravens do? This week should be telling. As reported by The Baltimore Sun on Monday, talks between Stanley’s agent and the Ravens at last week’s NFL scouting combine were “productive” and there is hope between the two sides that they can agree to an extension before free agency. If that happens, it likely means Mekari will be playing elsewhere next season, especially if Baltimore views Andrew Vorhees, who started three games at left guard before getting injured and ultimately replaced, as a starter again. The Ravens also have 11 draft picks and could perhaps use one of those selections on a player such as North Dakota State’s versatile Grey Zabel, who could potentially be a 2.0 version of Mekari with the ability to play guard or tackle. What if a deal with Stanley doesn’t get done in principle by Monday? This is the careful balancing act the Ravens are currently navigating, trying to simultaneously work out a deal for Stanley while also working on one to have ready for Mekari if the former doesn’t codify. Should Stanley reach free agency and with a thin draft class at the position, it’s not impossible that the New England Patriots or some other tackle-needy team with a lot of cap space comes calling with a deal in the $23 million per year range — though given Stanley’s age, injury history and need to adapt to a new building, the expectations ran the gamut last week in Indianapolis. Ravens left tackle Ronnie Stanley, shown working out before the 2024 season, is a priority for the franchise in free agency. (Kevin Richardson/Staff) But if that does happen and it looks like Stanley is going to depart, Baltimore will have to act quickly to try to keep Mekari or risk losing the left side of its line in free agency. For comparison’s sake, here’s a look at the current highest-paid left tackles in terms of average annual salary: San Francisco 49ers’ Trent Williams, $27.55 million Minnesota Vikings’ Christian Darrisaw, $26 million Houston Texans’ Laremy Tunsil, $25 million New York Giants’ Andrew Thomas, $23.5 million Philadelphia Eagles’ Jordan Mailata, $22 million Denver Broncos’ Garrett Bolles, $20.5 million Buffalo Bills’ Dion Dawkins, $20.02 million Detroit Lions’ Taylor Decker, $20 million Of that group, only Darrisaw, Thomas and Mailata are under the age of 30, so it’s not unreasonable to think that some team could throw significant money at Stanley that would place him among this group. Last week, the Los Angeles Rams signed free-agent-to-be left tackle Alaric Jackson to a three-year deal with an annual average of $19 million. He’s just 26 and doesn’t have the injury history that Stanley has, but Stanley also outperformed him last season so that’s probably a good barometer of the kind of money it would take for Baltimore to retain the Notre Dame alum. As for Mekari, an undrafted free agent getting a third contract is already unusual. One spending a decade with the same team is fairy tale stuff. Here’s a closer look at the case for each player: Ronnie Stanley Most importantly, Stanley is the blindside protector for Jackson, the $260 million quarterback and face of the franchise. He’s also coming off his best season in years. The sixth overall pick in 2016, Stanley rebounded from a down season in 2023 in which he battled injury and poor play by allowing just two sacks, per PFF, and ranking 12th among tackles in ESPN’s pass block win rate last season. He also didn’t miss a game and his 70.7 PFF overall grade was his highest since 2021. The Ravens ranked 15th in pressure rate allowed, Jackson was sacked only 23 times and he threw for a career-high 4,172 yards with a franchise-record 41 touchdown passes. But Stanley will also turn 31 this month and he has a long injury history that included a season-ending ankle injury seven games into 2020 and a season-ending surgery on the same ankle one game into 2021. He missed six games in 2022 and four in 2023 while dealing with a knee injury. Should the Ravens decide to part with him, they could move right tackle Roger Rosengarten, who had a fine rookie season last year, to the left side. Or they could draft a tackle, though the rookie class is not deep at the position and neither is the free agent class. Ravens left guard Patrick Mekari could prove too expensive for the team to bring back for the 2025 season. (Amy Davis/Staff) Patrick Mekari After years of playing all over the Ravens’ offensive line, Mekari moved from right tackle and took over as a full-time starter at left guard in Week 4 and never looked back. He started every game in a season for the first time in his career. His 71.6 pass-blocking grade, according to PFF, ranked 17th among guards with at least 500 pass-blocking snaps, he allowed just one sack and his versatility allows him to play any position on the line, even as teams, including the Ravens, are looking at him as a starting guard. If the Ravens ultimately decide that Stanley is too expensive, Mekari, who’d like to stay in Baltimore given the right deal, also offers a cheaper solution with the ability to keep the majority of the line intact. Other homegrown Ravens free agents to keep an eye on Brandon Stephens: DeCosta has already said that the cornerback will get a chance to test the market. After a season in which he broke up 10 passes but had trouble locating the ball and allowed 65 catches for 806 yards, it will be interesting to see what that bears. Still, he’s still only 27, he had a strong 2023 and has positional versatility having played at safety. A third-round pick by Baltimore in 2021, it’s possible Stephens could return but only if there isn’t much interest elsewhere. Patrick Ricard: The fullback has said that he’d like to finish his career in Baltimore. The Ravens would also like to keep Ricard, 30, a five-time Pro Bowl selection and an All-Pro last season who is integral to the offense. Only about half the teams in the league utilize a fullback, which could be good news for the Ravens at retaining him at the right salary. But the Seattle Seahawks and coach Mike Macdonald and new offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak are at least one team that could be interested. Their biggest problem — for now — is being $7.1 million over the cap, though that’s something that will change in the coming weeks with several salary cap moves expected. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | NFL mock draft (Version 3.0): Two-round projections after scouting combine Baltimore Ravens | READER POLL: Which young Orioles player will break out in 2025? Baltimore Ravens | 5 things we learned about the Ravens at the NFL scouting combine Baltimore Ravens | Should the NFL ban the tush push? Ravens’ John Harbaugh and others weigh in. Baltimore Ravens | Ravens to help pay for upgrades at M&T Bank Stadium The last time Ricard was a free agent, in 2022, the Ravens re-signed him for three years and $11.25 million, or $3.75 million per year. That already ranks as the third-highest deal per year among fullbacks, behind former Ravens and current San Francisco 49ers star Kyle Juszczyk ($4.55 million) and the Miami Dolphins’ Alec Ingold ($4.07 million), so it’s not unreasonable to think that Ricard could stay in Baltimore. Malik Harrison: The versatile linebacker had career highs in tackles (54) and sacks (two) while appearing in 15 games, including seven starts last season. He also logged the second-most snaps on special teams and played both inside and outside linebacker. Like Ricard, though, his market is limited, and after a one-year deal last offseason that paid him $2.57 million with a cap hit of just under $1.3 million, he provides the kind of value the Ravens look for. Tylan Wallace: Expect the wide receiver to test the market. Wallace had career highs in catches (11) and yards (193) and his first career touchdown grab last season. The biggest problem, of course, has been getting on the field with just 501 career snaps on offense over four years — with more than half of those coming last season. Is there a team out there that views Wallace as someone who can contribute regularly on offense? If so, he’s likely gone. If not, he’ll return, with Baltimore having an interest in his special teams ability, blocking and receiving when given the opportunity. Ben Cleveland: The Ravens selected Cleveland out of Georgia in the third round of the 2021 draft. Since then, he has appeared in 54 games over four seasons, only seven of which were starts. Despite openings at guard each of the past two seasons, he was never in contention to start and this past season played a career-low 49 snaps on offense. Then he got arrested last month in Georgia on suspicion of driving under the influence. Expect the 6-foot-6, 360-pound 26-year-old to look for a fresh start elsewhere. Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. View the full article

The NFL scouting combine has come and gone, providing more clarity to how the draft will shake out at the end of April. Here are The Baltimore Sun’s predictions for the first two rounds, which begin April 24 in Green Bay, Wisconsin: 1. Tennessee Titans: Abdul Carter, EDGE, Penn State Until the remaining quarterback dominoes start falling — namely Sam Darnold, Aaron Rodgers and Kirk Cousins — it’s hard to predict what the Titans will do. A trade down to a desperate team that misses out on a veteran (Giants? Raiders? Jets?) might be the best-case scenario, although Tennessee needs a quarterback, too. In the meantime, Carter makes sense as a dynamic pass rusher who would help make the defensive front a legitimate strength. 2. Cleveland Browns: Cam Ward, QB, Miami (Fla.) ESPN’s Adam Schefter said that the Browns will draft a quarterback “because they have to.” There’s no argument here after the Deshaun Watson trade blew up in their faces. Ward has emerged as the clear top choice over Shedeur Sanders after reportedly impressing teams during combine meetings. 3. New York Giants: Travis Hunter, CB/WR, Colorado If the Giants land Rodgers or another veteran, drafting the best player available makes sense. Whether it’s lining up next to Malik Nabers on offense or shadowing the opposing team’s top wideout on defense, Hunter would give this franchise a huge lift after it let Saquon Barkley walk and cut Daniel Jones. 4. New England Patriots: Armand Membou, OT/G, Missouri Even if the Patriots use their cap space to sign one or two offensive linemen in free agency, the best lines are built through the draft. Membou has been rocketing up boards after shutting down some of the SEC’s top pass rushers at right tackle and impressing scouts at the combine. 5. Jacksonville Jaguars: Mason Graham, DT, Michigan New coach Liam Cohen might be tempted to pick another playmaker for quarterback Trevor Lawrence, but the Jaguars need to eat their vegetables and improve in the trenches. The 6-foot-3, 296-pound Graham checked in roughly 20 pounds lighter than his listed college weight at the combine, but his production at Michigan speaks for itself. Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty is considered the top running back in the draft. (George Walker IV/AP) 6. Las Vegas Raiders: Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State New coach Pete Carroll is going to want to run the ball. What better way to do it than by adding one of the best running back prospects in years? Given the lack of blue-chip talent at the top of this draft, Jeanty is a reasonable pick for a team with such a glaring hole at the position. 7. New York Jets: Will Campbell, OT/G, LSU Adding another first-round offensive lineman to pair with left tackle Olu Fashanu, guard Alijah Vera-Tucker and center Joe Tippmann is not a bad way for new coach Aaron Glenn and general manager Darren Mougey to begin their tenure in New York. Campbell, despite the arm length concerns, has the potential to be a long-term starter at tackle. 8. Carolina Panthers: Jalon Walker, LB/EDGE, Georgia The Panthers need to leave the draft with several new pieces on defense. Walker is far from a finished product, but his ability to play off-ball linebacker and rush the passer would give Carolina an athletic presence it has sorely lacked since trading Brian Burns. 9. New Orleans Saints: Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona With quarterback Derek Carr likely sticking around for another season, the Saints need to inject some life into their offense. The 6-4, 219-pound McMillan has an exciting mix of size and skill and would immediately upgrade one of the least productive passing offenses in the league. 10. Chicago Bears: Walter Nolen, DT, Ole Miss With the top two offensive linemen off the board, the Bears might turn their attention toward improving the defense. Nolen is an explosive athlete who could be a potential game-wrecker at a position Chicago has long tried to upgrade. 11. San Francisco 49ers: Will Johnson, CB, Michigan With Charvarius Ward hitting free agency, the 49ers are light on bodies at cornerback. While he might not be the lockdown defender he was billed as coming into the season, Johnson still has all the necessary traits to carve out a successful career at the next level. Alabama linebacker Jihaad Campbell will be a coveted prospect for his versatility. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy) 12. Dallas Cowboys: Jihaad Campbell, LB, Alabama With Osa Odighizuwa expected to return, the Cowboys won’t be desperate for defensive line help. Campbell would be a welcome addition as an off-ball linebacker and situational pass rusher, especially after promising defender DeMarvion Overshown tore the ACL, MCL and PCL in his right knee at the end of last season. 13. Miami Dolphins: Nick Emmanwori, S, South Carolina There are few athletes in the history of the combine better than Emmanwori, who became one of just four players 6-3 or taller since 2003 to top 40 inches in the vertical jump and run faster than 4.4 seconds in the 40-yard dash. The Dolphins need a starting safety and get one with tremendous upside. Related Articles NFL | 2025 NFL mock draft: First-round projections after Week 18 14. Indianapolis Colts: Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State Colts GM Chris Ballard said the team will bring in competition for quarterback Anthony Richardson this offseason, and that could come in the draft. Whoever ends up winning the job would love to have Warren as a security blanket over the middle of the field. 15. Atlanta Falcons: Shemar Stewart, EDGE, Texas A&M The Falcons have been looking for pass-rushing help for pretty much two decades now. Despite meager sack production in college, the 6-5, 267-pound Stewart has a rare blend of size and athleticism that could make him a true difference-maker at the next level. 16. Arizona Cardinals: Mykel Williams, EDGE, Georgia The Cardinals have taken a major step forward under defensive coordinator Nick Rallis, but they still lack an impact pass rusher and are set to lose several contributors in free agency. If Williams and 2024 first-round pick Darius Robinson can live up to their potential, Arizona could be a playoff team. 17. Cincinnati Bengals: Kelvin Banks Jr., OT/G, Texas After releasing guard Alex Cappa and placing the franchise tag on wide receiver Tee Higgins, it’s clear where the Bengals need the most help. Banks is an elite pass blocker who could provide insurance behind tackles Orlando Brown Jr. and Amarius Mims while stepping in immediately at guard. 18. Seattle Seahawks: Tyler Booker, G, Alabama The Seahawks’ offense is untenable until they address the interior of the offensive line. Despite his below-average athleticism, Booker is considered a safe pick and would help ease some concerns as quarterback Geno Smith enters the final year of his contract. 19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Mike Green, EDGE, Marshall Defensive linemen Calijah Kancey and Vita Vea could use a running mate on the edge. The 6-3, 251-pound Green has the tenacity, bend and instincts to be an impact player, but teams must do their homework after he said he transferred from Virginia to Marshall after being accused of sexual assault. 20. Denver Broncos: Colston Loveland, TE, Michigan Coach Sean Payton gets his “joker” position in Loveland, who looks like a wide receiver in a 6-6, 248-pound tight end’s body. With Payton scheming up his touches and Bo Nix delivering him the ball, Loveland could have a Brock Bowers-like impact as a rookie. Opinions are split on where Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders will be drafted. (AP Foto/George Walker IV) 21. Pittsburgh Steelers: Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado Would the Steelers really pass on Sanders if he fell this far, given their uncertainty at quarterback? Even if one of Justin Fields or Russell Wilson returns, there’s room for another option. Pairing Sanders with coach Mike Tomlin and wide receiver George Pickens would certainly give Pittsburgh a competitive flair. 22. Los Angeles Chargers: Kenneth Grant, DT, Michigan Outside of pending free agent Poona Ford, the Chargers’ defensive tackles struggled last season. The 6-4, 331-pound Grant is plenty familiar with coach John Harbaugh and defensive coordinator Jesse Minter from his time with the Wolverines and is the kind of high-motor player Harbaugh wants. 23. Green Bay Packers: Josh Simmons, OT, Ohio State Before his knee injury, Simmons was trending toward being perhaps the top tackle in this draft class. With the Buckeyes star expected to be ready for the start of the season, he could be a steal at the end of the first round for a patient team like the Packers that won’t need to rush him into the lineup. 24. Minnesota Vikings: Omarion Hampton, RB, North Carolina There’s a good chance the Vikings trade down considering their next pick isn’t until the end of the third round. If they stay put, Hampton would be a worthy choice after showing impressive speed and explosion at the combine to match his outstanding college production. 25. Houston Texans: Emeka Egbuka, WR, Ohio State This is one of the first-round pairings that just makes too much sense. After setting Ohio State’s career receiving yards record, Egbuka reunites with his former Buckeyes quarterback C.J. Stroud to form a dynamic combination alongside star wideout Nico Collins. 26. Los Angeles Rams: Jahdae Barron, CB, Texas After re-signing left tackle Alaric Jackson and reworking quarterback Matthew Stafford’s contract, the Rams don’t have a lot of glaring holes on their roster. Barron is an athletic, versatile player who could help shore up the secondary on a promising young defense. Oregon defensive lineman Derrick Harmon would help the Ravens get younger on the defensive line. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy) 27. Baltimore Ravens: Derrick Harmon, DT, Oregon With the Ravens optimistic about re-signing left tackle Ronnie Stanley, that shifts the focus toward retooling the defense. Although Travis Jones and Nnamdi Madubuike form a promising duo up front, Baltimore could stand to get younger on the defensive line. The 6-4, 313-pound Harmon, who models his game after Chris Jones and Cameron Heyward, is an intriguing chess piece. 28. Detroit Lions: Grey Zabel, G/C, North Dakota State A small-school standout dominating at the Senior Bowl and then lighting up the combine just feels like someone Lions coach Dan Campbell would love. Zabel could step in immediately at guard before eventually taking over for Frank Ragnow at center. 29. Washington Commanders: Donovan Ezeiruaku, EDGE, Boston College With last season’s sack leader Dante Fowler entering free agency, the Commanders need a difference-maker on the edge. The 6-2, 248-pound Ezeiruaku is coming off a 16 1/2-sack season and backed up his production with strong athletic testing numbers at the combine. 30. Buffalo Bills: Matthew Golden, WR, Texas While Khalil Shakir and Keon Coleman are a promising young duo, the Bills don’t have a true No. 1 option at wide receiver. The smooth-moving Golden could become that guy, following an impressive season at Texas with a blistering 4.29-second 40-yard dash at the combine. 31. Kansas City Chiefs: Josh Conerly Jr., OT, Oregon The Chiefs simply need to do everything in their power to fix the offensive line. Though he might require some patience in the same vein as 2024 second-round pick Kingsley Suamataia, Conerly would be a worthwhile bet to protect Patrick Mahomes’ blindside for years to come. 32. Philadelphia Eagles: James Pearce Jr., EDGE, Tennessee Opinions are all over the map on Pearce, who early on was considered the best overall prospect in this class. If he slides to the end of the first round, he has all the tools to become yet another success story in Philadelphia’s defensive line factory. Round 2 33. Cleveland Browns: Donovan Jackson, OT/G, Ohio State The Browns add a versatile lineman in Jackson who could start at left tackle or guard. 34. New York Giants: Malaki Starks, S, Georgia Starks isn’t the top-five player he was touted as early in the process, but he’s still a valuable chess piece who could help quarterback the defense. 35. Tennessee Titans: Aireontae Ersery, OT, Minnesota The Titans need to fix the right side of their offensive line or risk damaging whoever ends up taking snaps at quarterback for them. 36. Jacksonville Jaguars: Maxwell Hairston, CB, Kentucky Hairston could be a first-round pick after posting a stellar 4.28-second 40-yard dash at the combine. 37. Las Vegas Raiders: Luther Burden III, WR, Missouri Burden is more of an underneath threat than a downfield burner, but he’d be a welcome addition to a receiving corps that needs juice. 38. New England Patriots: Landon Jackson, EDGE, Arkansas The 6-6, 264-pound Jackson is an imposing presence who should earn the admiration of new coach Mike Vrabel. 39. Chicago Bears (via Carolina): TreVeyon Henderson, RB, Ohio State New coach Ben Johnson could try to find his next Jahmyr Gibbs in Henderson, an explosive athlete who also excels as a pass catcher. 40. New Orleans Saints: Jalen Milroe, QB, Alabama The Saints should take as many swings as they can to try and find their next franchise quarterback. 41. Chicago Bears: Jonah Savaiinaea, OT/G, Arizona The Bears can’t wait too long to address their offensive line, which needs three new starters along the interior. 42. New York Jets: JT Tuimoloau, EDGE, Ohio State Glenn is going to want some big bodies in the mold of the 6-4, 265-pound Tuimoloau to build his defense around. 43. San Francisco 49ers: Nic Scourton, EDGE, Texas A&M The 49ers need to give Nick Bosa some help along the defensive line. 44. Dallas Cowboys: Quinshon Judkins, RB, Ohio State In a deep running back class, it’s not Jeanty or bust for the Cowboys. 45. Indianapolis Colts: Shavon Revel Jr., CB, East Carolina The 6-2, 194-pound Revel has all the tools to become a reliable starter despite tearing his ACL midseason. 46. Atlanta Falcons: Azareye’h Thomas, CB, Florida State A.J. Terrell and Clark Phillips III form a solid cornerback pairing, but the Falcons could bolster the depth behind them. 47. Arizona Cardinals: Tyleik Williams, DT, Ohio State The Cardinals need to add some beef up front, and the 6-3, 334-pound Williams offers plenty of it. 48. Miami Dolphins: Shemar Turner, DT, Texas A&M The Dolphins have just two interior defensive linemen on their roster, so it’s a safe bet they pick one early. 49. Cincinnati Bengals: Princely Umanmielen, EDGE, Ole Miss Even if the Bengals find a way to keep Trey Hendrickson, they need several additions to rebuild the defensive line. 50. Seattle Seahawks: Carson Schwesinger, LB, UCLA The former walk-on has the athletic traits to be a sideline-to-sideline defender against the run and the pass. 51. Denver Broncos: Dylan Sampson, RB, Tennessee The one-year starter would give the Broncos the burst and instincts they need to threaten defenses on the ground. 52. Pittsburgh Steelers: Tre Harris, WR, Ole Miss The 6-2, 205-pound Harris looks the part of a prototypical “X” receiver. 53. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Xavier Watts, S, Notre Dame Watts has earned rave reviews throughout the process and would form an enviable safety pairing alongside Antoine Winfield Jr. 54. Green Bay Packers: Darien Porter, CB, Iowa State The 6-3, 195-pound Porter crushed the combine, including a 4.3-second 40-yard dash. 55. Los Angeles Chargers: Mason Taylor, TE, LSU There’s a lot to like about the son of former Dolphins great Jason Taylor, including his potential fit in the Chargers’ offense. 56. Buffalo Bills (via Minnesota): Trey Amos, CB, Ole Miss Whether it’s safety or cornerback, the Bills need to add some help in the secondary. 57. Carolina Panthers (via LA Rams): Alfred Collins, DT, Texas Giving Derrick Brown some help along the interior would go a long way toward improving the Panthers’ defense. 58. Houston Texans: Jared Wilson, C, Georgia Wilson put himself in the Day 2 conversation with an outstanding combine, including a 4.84-second 40-yard dash at 310 pounds. 59. Baltimore Ravens: Benjamin Morrison, CB, Notre Dame If the Ravens are comfortable with Morrison’s recovery from a hip injury, his playmaking instincts (nine interceptions in 31 games) are tantalizing. 60. Detroit Lions: Jack Sawyer, EDGE, Ohio State Sawyer didn’t test at the combine and has short arms for the position, but the Lions will look past all of that because of his relentless play style. 61. Washington Commanders: Anthony Belton, OT, NC State The 6-6, 336-pound Belton has the chance to become a dominant player with some refinement. 62. Buffalo Bills: Josaiah Stewart, EDGE, Michigan What the 6-1, 249-pound Stewart lacks in size he makes up for with strength and explosiveness. 63. Kansas City Chiefs: Darius Alexander, DT, Toledo Retooling the defensive line around Chris Jones will be hugely important for Kansas City this offseason. 64. Philadelphia Eagles: Marcus Mbow, OT/G, Purdue Bet on the Eagles to keep loading up in the trenches early in the draft. Have a news tip? Contact sports editor C.J. Doon at cdoon@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/CJDoon. View the full article

The Orioles no longer have the No. 1 farm system in MLB, but they perhaps have the best young talent in the game. Jackson Holliday is less than a year removed from being baseball’s top prospect, while Colton Cowser was the runner-up in the American League Rookie of the Year voting. Heston Kjerstad, Coby Mayo and Cade Povich are also highly touted prospects and are likely to play a role in how the 2025 Orioles fare. Which young Orioles player do you think will break out this summer? We want to hear from you. After you vote, leave a comment and tell us why and we might use your take in The Baltimore Sun. The Baltimore Sun reader poll is an unscientific survey in which website users volunteer their opinions on the subject of the poll. To read the results of previous reader polls, click here. View the full article

INDIANAPOLIS — From how the Ravens are handling the sexual misconduct allegations against kicker Justin Tucker to general manager Eric DeCosta’s roster-building philosophy and thoughts for the 2025 season, there was no shortage of questions at last week’s NFL scouting combine, which wrapped up Sunday at Lucas Oil Stadium. Here are the five things we learned from last week: Tucker’s status remains a question The Ravens were noncommittal about Tucker’s future, saying they will base whatever decision they make on the NFL’s investigation. The last part of that sentence is the key and the determining factor in what Baltimore ultimately does. Tucker was adamant about his innocence in his latest statement last week. But DeCosta also called the voluminous amount of allegations “serious” and “concerning.” “A lot goes into that [decision],” he said. “We’ll wait as patiently as we can for as much information as we can. We’ll make our decisions based on that.” The ongoing NFL investigation is expected to take several weeks, or possibly months, even with investigators having been in Baltimore recently to interview at least some of the massage therapists who have accused the 35-year-old kicker of inappropriate sexual behavior between 2012 and 2016, according to reporting by The Baltimore Banner. Should the league find enough evidence, Tucker could be looking at a suspension under the league’s personal conduct policy. With that cloud of uncertainty lingering, it’s no surprise that the Ravens were looking at kickers at the combine. One of them was Miami’s Andy Borregales, who was one of four kickers and two punters invited to the combine, along with an additional nine kickers (four via the league’s International Pathway Program) and six punters (one through the IPP). Baltimore had previously met with Borregales at the Shrine Bowl, with the game coincidentally taking place the same day the accusations against Tucker became public, and kicking coach Randy Brown looked on closely last week. Over four years with the Hurricanes, he converted 74 of 86 field goals, including 18 of 19 last season, and 183 of 184 extra points. Borregales, whose older brother Jose also kicked at Miami before a brief stint with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ practice squad, also said Tucker was his favorite kicker growing up and called the chance to meet with Baltimore “surreal.” Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Should the NFL ban the tush push? Ravens’ John Harbaugh and others weigh in. Baltimore Ravens | Ravens to help pay for upgrades at M&T Bank Stadium Baltimore Ravens | Ravens’ Justin Tucker expresses empathy for accusers in new statement denying allegations Baltimore Ravens | Ravens GM Eric DeCosta ‘optimistic’ about extension for LT Ronnie Stanley Baltimore Ravens | NFLPA team report cards: Ravens get high grades but concerns linger about Harbaugh The best kicker, though, perhaps was Lenny Krieg, a 22-year-old German and former soccer player who taught himself how to kick footballs via YouTube and Instagram and eventually found his way to the Stuttgart Surge of the European League of Football. In Indianapolis, he was the only kicker who didn’t miss on Wednesday, converting all 14 of his attempts between 35 and 55 yards. The Ravens are the only team to never draft a kicker, and though it seems unlikely that would change this year, even with 11 selections, it perhaps would not be a big surprise if they signed an undrafted free agent after what was also Tucker’s worst season on the field. “Like every position, we’re gonna evaluate and rank the board. We’ve been doing that the last 29 years,” DeCosta said. “We’ll meet with Randy throughout the process over the coming weeks. He’ll travel all over the country looking at these guys and build the best board we can.” Baltimore will probably draft the best player available With the 27th overall pick in next month’s draft, Baltimore could go any number of directions — offensive line, edge rusher, cornerback and safety are among their needs. The draft class is deep with defensive linemen and nothing that happened last week changed anyone’s mind on that. As NFL Network draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah put it, “It’s a starters draft.” The Ravens’ philosophy also hasn’t changed. “I think it really just comes down to the best player at the time,” DeCosta said. “I think if we’re picking at 27, and there’s an edge rusher and he’s the best guy, we’re probably going to pick him. “I think it’s an important position. I think we were maybe second in the league in sacks last year, but having a continuous influx of young pass rush talent, guys that can set the edge and play the run, guys that play like Ravens, physical players who can get to the quarterback, I think that’s a priority for us, for sure.” Texas A&M defensive lineman Shemar Stewart has been linked to the Ravens. (Butch Dill/AP) One such player, Texas A&M’s Shemar Stewart, has been projected by some to be chosen by Baltimore. Except he might not be there when they pick. Stewart, a 6-foot-5, 267-pound stalwart who had just 4 1/2 career sacks for the Aggies, had an outstanding combine. Notably, he finished with a 9.99 out of 10 relative athletic score, which included a 40-yard dah time of 4.59 seconds and a 40-inch vertical jump. His RAS score was also the third-best out of 1,802 defensive ends measured since 1987. Also notable was that over his final two years, he had a pass rush win rate of 13.2%. “I wasn’t a sack-chasing warrior,” said Stewart, who added that he has tried to model his game after former Carolina Panthers great Julius Peppers. “I just wanted to become the best player for my team. And sometimes the stats don’t show that.” They do matter, though, so it will be interesting to see where Stewart goes, but his profile is on the rise. South Carolina safety Nick Emmanwori would be a good fit The numbers are eyebrow-raising: 6-3, 220 pounds, 4.38 40-yard dash time, 43-inch vertical, 11-6 broad jump. Emmanwori also had four interceptions (including two he returned for touchdowns), three pass breakups, 88 tackles and zero touchdowns allowed last season for the Gamecocks. If that’s not enough, he also scored a perfect 10 RAS at the combine, which ranked first out of all safeties dating to 1987. The Ravens, of course, also need a safety, with Marcus Williams expected to be released and only unproven Beau Brade and Sanoussi Kane, both rookies last season, behind starters Kyle Hamilton and restricted free agent Ar’Darius Washington. ESPN draftnik Mel Kiper Jr. has Baltimore taking Emmanwori with the 27th pick. South Carolina safety Nick Emmanwori said he models his game after Ravens safety Kyle Hamilton. (Charlie Riedel/AP) Emmanwori had plenty to say about the Ravens, too. “I model my game after Kyle Hamilton, [Cleveland Browns safety] Grant Delpit and [Los Angeles Chargers safety] Derwin James,” he said. So what would it like to be paired with Hamilton? “That’d be scary for the league, honestly,” he said. “He and I playing together, that’s like a dream come true. He locks down one side, I lock down the other. “I don’t think you’ve ever seen a safety like me. Well, there are a lot of dudes that came through this league, but a safety like me hasn’t come through this league for a long time. My size, my speed, my ability.” Free agency looms large The next big date on the Ravens’ calendar is free agency, with next Monday marking the beginning of the legal tampering period and the official start of free agency two days later. The biggest question facing Baltimore, of course, is what it will do with Pro Bowl left tackle Ronnie Stanley. DeCosta said last week that he is “optimistic” the two sides would be able to get a deal done. He met with Stanley’s agent in Indianapolis as well. Then, on Friday, the Los Angeles Rams and their free-agent-to-be left tackle, Alaric Jackson, agreed to a reported three-year, $57 million deal. So what does that mean for Stanley? On the surface, it would seem Stanley might have both feet out the door as unaffordable. The big question, however, is whether he would jump at, say, $19 million from a lousy team like the New England Patriots, who have well over $100 million in cap room and need protection for quarterback Drake Maye, or would he be content with, say, $16 million or $17 million a year from a perennial contender in the Ravens, the only NFL team he’s ever known? Baltimore is projected to have just over $12 million in salary cap space. The talks between the two sides were “productive,” according to a source with direct knowledge of the negotiations, and there is hope on both sides a deal can be reached, so stay tuned this week or early next. “Right player, right price,” DeCosta said. “We don’t have a lot of cap room. We have [vice president of football administration] Nick Matteo working tirelessly to find some space for us. We call it couch cushion coins; just we’re trying to find 50 grand here, 75 grand there in the couch cushion. But we’re not a team that’s gonna make a lot of big splashes generally speaking.” Being able to keep Stanley would qualify as a pretty good one, though. Ravens could draft Lamar Jackson’s backup and WR depth With Lamar Jackson currently signed through the 2027 season, Baltimore does not need to draft a starting-caliber quarterback. Still, the Ravens selected Devin Leary as a project in the sixth round last year, and veteran backup Josh Johnson, who will turn 39 in May, is due to be an unrestricted free agent. Is it possible DeCosta could look to add to the quarterback room in the middle or late rounds again? “Every smart team is always looking for quarterbacks,” he said. “Whether you’re looking for a backup, practice squad quarterback, a starting quarterback, it’s hard to win without one. … Living in a world without a quarterback is a tough world to live in. We understand that. These guys drive the league.” While the 2025 class might lack top-end talent — Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders and Miami’s Cam Ward are two of just a handful of “blue chip” talents, according to scouts — there are potential future starters who will be found deeper in the draft. One potential name to keep an eye on is Syracuse’s Kyle McCord. He threw the deep ball well at the scouting combine, performed solidly on out routes and has plenty of run-pass option experience. The 6-3, 218-pound New Jersey native who started his career at Ohio State is, like Leary, a bit of a project but could go on to have a solid career as a backup or potential starter with some improvements, according to analysts. Terps wide receiver Tai Felton could be a target for the Ravens in next month’s NFL draft. (Kim Hairston/Staff) As for the Ravens’ wide receivers, they are thin beyond Pro Bowl selection Zay Flowers and Rashod Bateman, who is coming off his best season with 756 receiving yards and nine touchdowns, both career highs. After that, veteran Nelson Agholor is a free agent, as are Tylan Wallace, Deonte Harty, Steven Sims and Diontae Johnson. That leaves just 2024 fourth-round pick Devontez Walker as the only other wideout on the active roster. Maryland’s Tai Felton and Kaden Prather could be targets for Baltimore. “It’d be a blessing,” Felton, a 6-1, 183-pound long-striding receiver, said when asked what it would be like to play with Baltimore. He grew up in Ashburn, Virginia, was a first-team All-Big Ten selection and finished last season with 96 catches for 1,124 yards and nine touchdowns. “I would be very comfortable. I feel like I’ll be playing with a lot of juice being able to be able to be around my friends and family and they’ll be able to come to all the games.” Felton also scored a 9.60 RAS during the scouting combine, which ranked 138th out of 3,408 receivers since 1987. Prather, who started his college career at West Virginia before transferring to Maryland, is bigger at 6-3 1/2 and 204 pounds, but more likely an undrafted free agent target for teams. “Words can’t even explain,” he said when asked what it would be like to catch passes from Jackson. Both players met with the Ravens and both are expected to attend their local pro day. “I think it’s a pretty good class draft-wise, free agency-wise as well,” DeCosta said of the wide receiver group. “I’m very happy to see the development that our young receivers made the last couple of years. … We feel like there is a good opportunity for us to find some talent, either through free agency or the draft in every round, and at every price point.” Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. View the full article

INDIANAPOLIS — It was late November, the Ravens were sitting at 7-4, facing fourth-and-1 from their own 16-yard line and trailing the Los Angeles Chargers 10-7 with two minutes remaining in the first half of a critical AFC showdown at SoFi Stadium. Football norms, along with analytics, said to punt. Instead, tight end Mark Andrews lined up under center and plowed ahead, aided by 6-foot-3, 247-pound running back Derrick Henry shoving “the [crap]” out of him from behind to help pick up a first down that led to an eventual touchdown and a lead that Baltimore never relinquished. It was their own version of the Eagles’ “tush push” with quarterback Jalen Hurts, a play (along with perhaps the best offensive line in the NFL) that helped propel Philadelphia to a Super Bowl title this past season. Over the past three years, the Eagles and Buffalo Bills have combined to run 163 tush push plays, according to ESPN research, which is more than the league’s other 30 teams combined. They were also highly successful, with the two teams combining for a first down or touchdown on 87% of them. Earlier this week, NFL executive vice president of football operations Troy Vincent said that one team had issued a proposal to ban the play for the 2025 season, and Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst on Tuesday confirmed that it was Green Bay. Unsurprisingly, Ravens coach John Harbaugh, who utilized Andrews in the same role on several occasions, is not in favor of eliminating the play from the game, however. “You have to take all of those rules holistically,” he said this week at the NFL scouting combine. “What effect does one rule change have on the next thing? So, if you take out the ‘tush push,’ then you’re going to take out all pushing. A guy can’t be downfield, and the offensive linemen can’t come running in and push the ball carrier 5 more yards. You can’t take one out but not the other. They are the same, just like you’re not supposed to be able to grab a running back and pull him into the end zone. That hasn’t been officiated. They’ve allowed that to happen. That’s already against the rules. How are you going to officiate that? “So, if we want to say that you can’t help push a [running] back, then you can take out the ‘tush push.’ If you’re going to say that’s still allowed, then, in my opinion, can’t take out the ‘tush push.’ So, I’m good with it. I’m OK with the ‘tush push,’ yes.” Not everyone feels the same, most notably the Packers, who lost to the Eagles in Week 1 then again in the wild-card round of the playoffs last season. After the latter, Packers president and CEO Mark Murphy called the play “bad for the game” on the team’s website and wrote that there is “no skill” involved in it. This week, Gutekunst downplayed it somewhat. “I know we’re not very successful against it,” he said. “I know that. But to be honest, I have not put much thought into it. It’s been around for a while. We’ve used it in different fashions with our tight end, so, again, I think there will be a lot of discussions about it. I’ve kind of got to look at the, some of the information as far as injury rates, things like that to see. But we’ll see.” Atlanta Falcons coach Raheem Morris was more firm, though, saying this week that he thinks it should be banned. “I’ve never been a fan,” Morris said. “Never understood why it was allowed. I definitely will be one of the guys voting against it.” On Wednesday, though, the proposal likely suffered a big blow: The league announced that its data showed there had been zero injuries suffered during the play, unlike the hip-drop tackle, which was outlawed during last offseason. Injury was at the forefront of Bills coach Sean McDermott’s perhaps surprising thoughts on the play, which he said he does not like, though he stopped short of saying it should be done away with. “The way that the techniques that are used with the play, to me, have been potentially contrary to the health and safety of the players,” McDermott said on Monday. “You have to go back through, in fairness, to the injury data on the play, but I just think the optics of it I’m not in love with.” Though the Bills have been highly successful with quarterback Josh Allen running the play, that was not the case in this season’s AFC championship game against the Kansas City Chiefs. All four times Allen attempted it against Kansas City he was stopped. That included on fourth-and-1 early in the fourth quarter of what ended up being a 32-29 Buffalo loss. “I understand how it can go both ways,” Chiefs coach Andy Reid said. “I think it takes certain players to be able to do that, and that’s not an easy thing for the center. “Now there are other things you have to look at. You got to look at the injuries that take place, or, you know, whatever the other deals are that they evaluate on it. So I don’t have all that information, but, I mean, it’s a heck of a play, I know that.” Eagles coach Nick Siranni, meanwhile, called support to outlaw it “insulting.” “We work really, really hard and our guys are talented at this play,” he said. “We work really hard at it and you see it throughout the league. I mean we saw it in the championship games that a team failed at it and ultimately didn’t end up winning the game because of it. “It’s a skill that our team has because of the players that we have, the, the way the coaches coach it again there’s just so much time put into it. The fact that it’s a successful play for the Eagles and people want to take that away, I think is a little unfair.” Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Ravens to help pay for upgrades at M&T Bank Stadium Baltimore Ravens | Ravens’ Justin Tucker expresses empathy for accusers in new statement denying allegations Baltimore Ravens | Ravens GM Eric DeCosta ‘optimistic’ about extension for LT Ronnie Stanley Baltimore Ravens | NFLPA team report cards: Ravens get high grades but concerns linger about Harbaugh Baltimore Ravens | Ravens clarify zero-tolerance policy amid Justin Tucker allegations: ‘There are no absolutes’ Former Pittsburgh Steeler and current ESPN NFL analyst Ryan Clark took a similar stance. “How soft do you have to be? Oh we can’t stop it, our defensive tackles are tough enough our linebackers get hurt,” he said on the network this week. “Bow your neck. Somebody get physical and stop the play. “It’s like everything in else in sports, if you don’t have the personnel to do it, you don’t do it.” That has been a popular sentiment among several coaches and general managers. “When a team gets something they’re good at, you gotta learn how to stop it,” Tampa Bay Buccaneers coach Todd Bowles said. “I don’t think the first thing you do is take it out of the ball game.” Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. View the full article