As the Baltimore Ravens head into free agency, they’ll have the opportunity to add receiving talent. There’s no reason they should miss out on a top target.
The 2018 NFL free agency period begins next Wednesday. Starting at 4 p.m. on March 14th, the Baltimore Ravens will be able to sign unrestricted free agents. Out of all the offseason needs, the top priority still revolves around receiver help. After last year’s abysmal offensive performance, there’s no arguing that point.
From what’s transpired over the past few weeks, a number of top players will be available to Ozzie Newsome’s disposal. Jimmy Graham and Tavon Austin reportedly will get cut. Sammy Watkins and Allen Robinson are expected to hit the free agent market. Not to mention, other names like Jordy Nelson are rumored to be looking for a new team. Given the opportunity, the Ravens can’t miss out on adding wide receiver help.
With the salary cap set at $177.2 million, the Ravens are expected to have around $5.7 million in cap space according to Russell Street Report’s Brian McFarland. That’s a less than ideal situation but still manageable. As McFarland pointed out, the team will make cap cuts and restructure contracts. Cap room is going to be made one way or another.
Keep reading. 😄
— Brian McFarland (@RavensSalaryCap) March 6, 2018
They can, but they are going to have to cut guys and restructure deals to be so. Which, they seem very intent on doing. https://t.co/C8tBQ3ef7e
Cap space will limit opportunities but it won’t be the determining factor. If the front office has their sights set on a target, they’ll make it work. That’s why they’re considered one of the most stable units in the NFL. Now, it’s about going out and actually striking a deal in free agency.
Ozzie Newsome is aware of the need at receiver and addressed it during his press conference at the NFL Scouting Combine. While Breshad Perriman looks safe for now, things don’t bode well for veterans Jeremy Maclin and Mike Wallace. After watching the passing game struggle last season, that shouldn’t be surprising.
Despite three straight seasons of missing the postseason, this is a team that still believes they can win now. It’s time to see that in action during the free agency period. Whether it be any of the players mentioned above, the Ravens can’t miss out on acquiring receiver help. Even with the receiver depth in the draft, the team can’t solely rely on rookie talent to lead the way. That’s just not plausible given the situation.
Next: Baltimore Ravens: The case for and against acquiring Tavon Austin
None of the players mentioned above will come cheap but there has to be a concerted effort to bring in a receiving threat. Even if it’s acquiring Jarvis Landry through a trade, if the mentality is a Super Bowl in Baltimore, that has to be shown this offseason.