For the past nine years, Patrick Ricard has been a fan favorite and an unsung hero for the Baltimore Ravens' success. The 300-pound fullback is a throwback player. All of his nine seasons in the league have come with the Ravens, and he is notably tied with Marlon Humphrey for the second-longest tenured Raven.
Ricard only has 323 total yards and three touchdowns, but his blocking is central to the Ravens' run-heavy scheme. He essentially gives the Ravens an extra lineman, and his blocking is truly elite. The University of Maine product has been named to six Pro Bowls and one All-Pro team during his time in Baltimore. Ricard has earned the (amazing) nickname "Pancake Pat" for his ability to lay out defenders.
However, the harsh reality for Ravens fans is that Ricard might find a new home this offseason.
Patrick Ricard could leave in free agency
With Ricard being a free agent, there's a clear chance that he might sign with a new team. Beyond that, most teams don't utilize fullbacks in the modern NFL. As such, the Ravens' new coaching staff may not value Ricard -- despite the likelihood that the offense remains centered around the run game.
Re-signing Ricard, who made $2.8 million last year, won't be that expensive. Nevertheless, if the Ravens want to make a big move in free agency or via the trade market, every dollar counts, and they could part ways with Ricard to maximize their cap space.
In terms of landing spots, the New York Giants seem like a clear possibility. Of course, Ricard's relationship with former Ravens head coach John Harbaugh is the main factor to note. Harbaugh recently signed with the Giants and will likely bring many of his former players and coaches with him.
In addition to Harbaugh, former Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken is also with the Giants, which further increases their viability as a landing spot.
Even if the Ravens' new coaching staff values the idea of having a fullback who plays regular snaps, it's unclear how much the front office be willing to pay him. As such, if Harbaugh and the Giants give Ricard a bigger offer, it's easy to see him take his talents to New York. I suppose the same scenario is possible with another team, but the Giants jump out as clear suitors.
It's far from a certainty that Ricard leaves Baltimore in free agency. At the same time, it's a real possibility. Of course, Ravens fans would love to see the long-time fullback return, but it's time to prepare for his departure. Whatever happens, Ricard will be remembered fondly by the fanbase for his time in Baltimore.