Ebony Bird
FanSided

5 Players Ravens Must Move On From In 2017

By Joe Schiller

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Sep 25, 2016; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Baltimore Ravens tight end Dennis Pitta (88) signals a first down during the second quarter of a football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at EverBank Field. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 25, 2016; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Baltimore Ravens tight end Dennis Pitta (88) signals a first down during the second quarter of a football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at EverBank Field. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports /


Dennis Pitta

This may be an unpopular opinion, but it needs to be said. After producing a career best 7 touchdowns in 2012, the Ravens were very high on Pitta. The team then rewarded him with a 5-year $32 million dollar contract in 2014. Hip injuries sidelined Pitta until this season and there was question if he would ever play football again. A once go to option for Joe Flacco has seemed almost non-existent.

Looking head, the Ravens have too many options at the tight end position. Other than Pitta, who is 31 and Ben Watson, who is 35, all of the other tight ends are under the age of 24. Crockett Gilmore has shown potential, but lingering injuries have kept him sidelined for most of the season. Maxx Williams is currently on injured reserve and Nick Boyle is serving a 10 game suspension.

With young talent on the roster in the tight end position, I cannot see the Ravens sticking with Pitta much longer. Pitta has already broken his hip twice and is an injury liability.  While it may not be a fan favorite move, it would be a logical decision. Benjamin Watson has been sidelined with an Achilles injury all season, but should return next year. He can still be the veteran leadership the Ravens need at that position and for a lower price tag.

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