Akiem Hicks and 6 defensive linemen the Ravens could sign in free agency
By Justin Fried
4. The Ravens could target B.J. Hill (Cincinnati Bengals)
The Cincinnati Bengals made one of the best moves of the summer when they shipped former first-round bust Billy Price to the New York Giants in exchange for defensive lineman B.J. Hill.
Price had been one of the worst centers in football since entering the league while Hill had served as more of a rotational defensive lineman during his time with the Giants.
That was until he broke out in 2021 recording a career-high 5.5 sacks and 12 QB hits while playing a very important role in the Bengals’ defensive line rotation. He even recorded a key interception in Cincinnati’s thrilling AFC Championship victory over the Chiefs.
Hill’s stellar 2021 season could see his market inflate, but he should still be on the more affordable side, at least when compared to Jones and Fatukasi. He would be a strong addition for the Ravens.
3. The Ravens could target Harrison Phillips (Buffalo Bills)
Back to the nose tackle position for a moment, one projected free agent who’s definitely flown a little under the radar is Harrison Phillips of the Buffalo Bills.
A former third-round pick, Phillips hasn’t quite lived up to expectations in Buffalo as his career has been hampered by persistent injuries. A torn ACL caused him to miss almost all of 2019 and he hasn’t played 16 games since his rookie season.
Still, when on the field, Phillips has been impressive. The Stanford product finished with the 14th-best PFF grade among all interior defensive linemen in the NFL in 2021.
Phillips’ injury history should allow the Ravens, or any team, to get him at a reduced price. And if he stays healthy, he could end up as one of the steals of free agency.