7 safeties the Ravens could target in 2022 free agency
By Justin Fried
2. Ravens target: Xavier Woods
Xavier Woods is one of my favorite value targets for the Ravens in free agency. A former sixth-round pick of the Dallas Cowboys, Woods has been a quality starting safety for the last four seasons.
After four years in Dallas, Woods left to join the Minnesota Vikings in 2021, and he would go on to start all 17 games earning a PFF grade of 66.4 that ranked 39th out of all safeties in football.
Woods is far from a star, but he fits the free safety mold that the Ravens are looking for and should come at a relatively cheap price. PFF projects his market value at just two years, $10.5 million which is certainly affordable.
Woods would be an upgrade over Elliott in the form of a durable (he’s missed just four games in five NFL seasons) scheme fit who could provide a nice boost to the Ravens’ secondary for cheap.
1. Ravens target: Tyrann Mathieu
This is the one Ravens fans have been begging for. The Ravens were reportedly heavily involved in Tyrann Mathieu’s market a few years ago, and with the star safety set to hit free agency again, many fans are hoping that the second time’s the charm.
Mathieu is one of the better safeties in the NFL having been voted to the Pro Bowl in each of the last three seasons and earning first-team All-Pro honors in two of the last three years.
Both his playstyle and attitude would be a perfect fit for the Ravens’ defense. Unfortunately, it’s hard to imagine the organization having the finances to afford him.
Next. 5 draft prospects the Ravens have met with at the NFL Combine. dark
Mathieu could command over $15 million per season which just wouldn’t be feasible for Baltimore to pay. While a Tyrann Mathieu signing would undoubtedly be a major addition, it seems unlikely the Ravens make it happen.