Ravens: 3 running back trades to explore before the deadline
The need for a solid starting running back has not more evident than it is right now for the Baltimore Ravens. Lamar Jackson has more than double the rushing yards of the next player on the Ravens rushing list, Latavius Murray.
Since 2018, the Ravens have been either first or second in rushing yards. This season they are currently fourth which isn’t terrible, but most of that is due to the heroics of Jackson and his insane ability to make plays with his legs.
Although Lamar Jackson has led the Ravens in rushing over the last few seasons, the running backs contributed more than half of the Ravens’ rushing numbers in 2019 and 2020. In 2019, the running backs accounted for 2,019 rushing yards and in 2020 they rushed for 2,012 yards.
The Ravens did a good job in previous seasons running the ball effectively with their running backs, lessening the burden on Jackson to run the ball and allowing him to stay in the pocket.
The only problem with trying to maneuver any kind of trade or move the Ravens could be considering is the lack of cap space available to the organization. But if they could work something out that would free money, the need for a running back is glaring.
Here is a list of some possible trade options and packages that could be enough for the Ravens to land a quality starter at running back.
1. Ravens trade target: Miles Sanders (Philadelphia Eagles)
Miles Sanders has been almost a non-factor for the Philadelphia Eagles. He has had 63 carries so far this season which is 30th among running backs. Sanders has been somewhat of an outcast in the Eagles’ offense.
There have been games where Sanders has only had two rushing attempts. The highest number of carries Sanders has had this season has been 15 which came in Week 1.
If the Eagles aren’t going to use him, they could be swayed into trading him if the right offer were to come in.
A fourth-round pick and a pick swap in the later round could be enough to persuade the Eagles to let go of their former second-round pick. Sanders is still on his rookie deal so the financial aspect wouldn’t be too difficult to maneuver.