Baltimore Ravens must build upon their strengths this offseason

Top priorities

For me, in terms of improving the Ravens’ ability to play the like the Ravens, the priorities are clear: offensive line, offensive line, and more offensive line. Then, maybe, I’d take a strong look at the offensive line.

Catch what I’m saying here?

The Ravens — particularly with who they have calling offensive plays and who they have taking the snaps — must run, and they must run well. It is also imperative in terms of developing Jackson as a passer that he has clean pockets in which to operate.

Did you see Patrick Mahomes in the Super Bowl? He is arguably one of the greatest passers in the history of the league when facing pressure, and he was basically neutered. It is critical.

I would also look for a tight end that can help take advantage of stacked boxes by getting downfield, and a receiver who can make contested catches while breaking some tackles on short passes. Defenses will be around the Ravens line all season — make them pay, even with high-percentage throws that can break long after the catch.

On defense, add edges however they can be added. Find a capable corner who can play through traffic, and keep putting resources on that line.

Suggestions

To me, I would look to try to keep potential free agents Tyus Bowser, Jihad Ward, and Derek Wolfe. Judon and Ngakoue are certainly talents, but their price tag, and Martindale’s style, makes me feel as if they are luxuries more than necessities. I have a lot of hope for Bowser taking on a larger role if he can be kept at a reasonable cost.

Allen Robinson is the big-money free agent who would help the Ravens the most at the receiver position, but his usage in this offense and price tag make me balk a little. I’d look at a more reasonable alternative like Corey Davis at the receiver position, or even take a cheap flyer on a guy like John Ross.

I would personally target a center in free agency. A veteran presence meant a lot to an earlier Ravens team when they signed Matt Birk, and I believe a guy like Corey Linsey could do the same for this team.

Draft-wise, I’d stick with the beloved “BPA” philosophy of adding talent wherever and whenever possible, but would prioritize certain positions if players were stacked similarly on the Ravens’ board — tackle, guard, edge, tight end, nickel, receiver. I know… receiver is sexy. That’s what people want.

But it won’t help if this Ravens team can’t run, or if their quarterback is on his back. The 2021 off-season must be about that line.

To thine own self be true, right?