A look at the Baltimore Ravens updated cap space

As we head into training camp in a couple weeks, I take a look at the Ravens updated cap space. How much do they have and what could they do with it?

The Baltimore Ravens have been busy in free agency this offseason. After losing the likes of Rick Wagner and Kyle Juszczyk, they also brought in some great players. Tony Jefferson, Jeremy Maclin and Brandon Carr will all be key contributors this season.

Even after all these moves, could the Ravens still be in the market for more free agents? It just all depends on who’s available and how much cap space they have.

As it stands right now, the Ravens have about $5.8 million in cap space. To put that into perspective they rank 30 out of the 32 teams. Only the Lions and Rams have less. That isn’t ideal, but it’s the price the Ravens have to pay with the contracts they have given out.

What Can They Do With It?

There’s no question that the biggest need for the Ravens is still right tackle. It seemed like the they were going to address the position in free agency, but that hasn’t happened yet. This presumably leaves James Hurst as the starting right tackle to start the season. From what we’ve seen in the past, there’s not a lot of confidence to be had.

Ryan Clady is still the best free agent option at tackle, but there are some concerns. Injuries limited Clady to just 8 starts last season. The Ravens would also have to convince him to move from the left side of the line to the right. At the age of 30, it might not be something he wants to commit to.

Another option could be to acquire a player through trade. This seems more logical considering there could more options at a cheaper price. The problem with this is what you are willing to give up for the player. Does it mean draft picks? If so, we know the Ravens don’t usually do that unless they have to.

The Bottom Line

Ozzie Newsome is always working behind the scenes so we never know when the Ravens could make a move, but with the limited free agent market, it’s going to be tough. We knew coming into this offseason that the Ravens weren’t going to be able to address every need. It’s just the reality of the situation.

Regardless of how the Ravens acquire another player, they need to do it. At the very least they need to add more depth to the offensive line. It doesn’t have to be a huge stand-out player.  The Ravens signed Vlad Ducasse as a cheap free agent offensive lineman and he proved to be a decent starter.

Next: Tim Patrick vs. Tim White: Who makes the 53-man roster?

Last season was a great example of what an inconsistent line can do to an offense. If the Ravens don’t add some depth, they could be in trouble this season.