Ravens: 3 reasons why Baltimore surprisingly traded CB Shaun Wade
By Justin Fried
2. The emergence of other young Ravens defensive backs
The biggest reason behind the Ravens’ decision to trade Wade was simply because he was outplayed. And he wasn’t just outplayed by one player, he was outplayed by a number of other young defensive backs.
Truth be told, Wade wasn’t really going to see the field if he did make the roster. And the Ravens didn’t want to waste a roster spot on him at the expense of others who had outplayed him.
Free-agent addition Chris Westry had done everything he could to secure a roster spot this summer. The 6-foot-4 cornerback is another high-ceiling prospect who showed more potential and current ability than Wade did.
Another standout has been undrafted safety Ar’Darius Washington. Washington’s emergence might have done more to push Wade out than anyone else given his extensive experience playing in the slot.
With Washington — among others — emerging as viable slot options, Wade became expendable.
Even beyond those two players, the likes of Geno Stone and Nigel Warrior have also impressed coaches this summer.
Stone had two interceptions in the team’s first preseason game while Warrior looks much improved in his second offseason with the organization.
The Ravens likely won’t be able to keep more than two of those players on the active roster. Yet, each of them certainly deserved a roster spot more than Wade.
Wade was expendable. The Ravens simply had better young defensive backs on their roster.