Ravens: 3 linebackers to target at the 2021 trade deadline

1. Ravens trade target: Jordan Hicks, LB, Arizona Cardinals

This would undoubtedly be the flashiest — but still reasonably realistic — trade the Ravens could make in regard to acquiring a linebacker.

Jordan Hicks has started 80 games for the Philadelphia Eagles and Arizona Cardinals over the last seven years serving as a quality, above-average starting linebacker.

However, after the team drafted Isaiah Simmons and Zaven Collins in consecutive years, Hicks was granted permission to seek a trade this past summer.

The Cardinals were reportedly motivated to move him before the season started but no deal ever got done. And they’re probably happy that was the case.

Hicks has been excellent for the Cardinals’ defense this season and has proven to be one of their most important defensive players. He’s played 100 percent of defensive snaps in five of eight games this year serving as a vital leader in the middle of their defense.

The Cardinals aren’t going to just give him away, especially with a playoff push incoming. But if the Ravens pay the right price, they might just be able to land him in a pretty high-profile trade.

Hicks’ prorated 2021 salary of just $1.83 million could be easily absorbed by the Ravens, although it might take a Day 2 pick (or some swap of picks) to make a deal work.

The Ravens could even offer up a player (and picks) in return — perhaps someone like running back Ty’Son Williams could add further depth to the Cardinals’ backfield.

I’m just spit-balling here.

Jordan Hicks is a dream trade target for the Ravens at the deadline. If they could make it work for a reasonable price, they absolutely should jump at the opportunity.