James Hurst was a key piece on the offensive line for the Baltimore Ravens last season. Now he’s back on a four-year deal.
It didn’t take long into the start of the NFL’s legal tampering period for the Baltimore Ravens to begin making moves. In unexpected fashion, the team announced the re-signing of offensive lineman James Hurst. Entering his fifth year in the league, Hurst started all 16 games last season on a decimated offensive line.
From a former undrafted question mark to bonafide starter, Hurst finally gets his payday. He was considered one of the Ravens’ top impending free agents this offseason. With the real possibility of center Ryan Jensen signing elsewhere, the team made sure to lock up Hurst right away. He’s proven to be a versatile talent that can play just about everywhere on the offensive line. You won’t find that with many players at the NFL level.
If Hurst can continue the momentum from last season, he’s set for another solid year in the trenches.
Contract details
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapaport, Hurst will sign a four-year deal worth $17.5M with $8M in guaranteed money.
National reaction
Ravens announce a new four-year deal for James Hurst. Didn't suspect that.
— Jeff Zrebiec (@jeffzrebiec) March 12, 2018
Re-signing James Hurst gives the Ravens flexibility. He proved he can start at guard and back up both tackles spots. Remains to be seen what happens with Jensen/Howard. https://t.co/TMpJ44205U
— Ryan Mink (@ryanmink) March 12, 2018
Ravens re-signed offensive lineman James Hurst to a four-year deal, the team announced. Baltimore has always considered Hurst to be a valuable backup. Hurst has started 32 games in his four-year career, including all 16 last year at left guard after... https://t.co/13hyuy3NT5
— Jamison Hensley (@jamisonhensley) March 12, 2018
Grade
It’s a move out of left field but a solid one in that. Offensive line depth is of the utmost importance for any team and the Ravens have been dealt a tough draw with injuries at the position in recent years. The best ability is availability and Hurst proved that last season. His versatility on the offensive line makes him a valuable piece to keep around.
Hurst has had previous struggles at tackle but remains a solid piece on the interior. That’s likely where the Ravens will keep him moving forward. It opens up the possibility of moving Alex Lewis to center or guard depending on the futures of Ryan Jensen and Austin Howard.
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Fans won’t be thrilled with the move but the Ravens retain one of their key interior offensive linemen. That’s a smart investment.
Grade: B