The Baltimore Ravens are off and running with their offseason as free agency kicked off this week. Baltimore has been active, mostly focusing on retaining key players while also losing several, especially on defense. They've also made a major offensive addition, giving Lamar Jackson another playmaker. Let’s grade general manager Eric DeCosta’s moves so far.
Ravens free agency grades
Ronnie Stanley: A+
Without a doubt, re-signing Ronnie Stanley was Baltimore’s biggest priority this offseason. DeCosta and head coach John Harbaugh reiterated that sentiment at the NFL Scouting Combine, with DeCosta stating they would meet with Stanley’s agent and were confident in reaching an agreement.
On the day before the tampering period began, Baltimore agreed to a three-year, $60 million deal with their franchise left tackle, ensuring Jackson’s blindside remains protected. The risk, of course, is Stanley’s injury history, but when healthy, he’s one of the best left tackles in the league. Keeping him in Baltimore was a must, and if he stays on the field, this move should work out well for both sides.
DeAndre Hopkins: B+
The latest wide receiver to join the Ravens is none other than DeAndre Hopkins. Hopkins signed a one-year deal worth up to $6 million, reuniting with former Tennessee Titans teammate Derrick Henry while teaming up with Jackson. Now, the Ravens get to see just how dangerous this trio can be.
After dominating with the Houston Texans in his prime, Hopkins has bounced around three different teams over the past five seasons. He spent last year with the Kansas City Chiefs after a midseason trade from Tennessee, finishing the season with 56 catches for 610 yards and five touchdowns. He may no longer be a WR1, but if he can make contested catches, convert key third downs, and be a reliable red-zone target for Jackson, this could be a steal.
Patrick Ricard: B
Pancake Pat is back. Ricard returns to Baltimore on a one-year, $2 million contract, continuing his role as a dominant blocker. Originally signed as an undrafted free agent in 2017 out of Maine, Ricard has been an absolute gem for the Ravens.
In 2024, he played 39% of the team’s offensive snaps, as Todd Monken’s scheme utilized him less than Greg Roman’s. However, he still made the most of his time on the field, helping lead one of the league’s best rushing attacks. The 2024 season also saw Ricard earn First-Team All-Pro honors for the first time in his career. The Ravens have a history of great fullbacks—Sam Gash, Vonta Leach, Alan Ricard, Lorenzo Neal, Le’Ron McClain, and Kyle Juszczyk—and Ricard belongs in that conversation.
Tylan Wallace: C
Another re-signing for the Ravens was special teams standout Tylan Wallace, who returns on a one-year deal to provide wide receiver depth and continue as a return specialist.
Wallace has made the most of his opportunities when given the chance, though snaps on offense have been limited due to the depth ahead of him. With Nelson Agholor now a free agent, Wallace could see more playing time. The Ravens value his abilities as both a returner and a blocker, but how he’ll fit into the offense remains a question heading into next season.
Jake Hummel: C
One of Baltimore’s more notable free-agent departures was special teams ace Chris Board, who signed a two-year deal with the New York Giants. Additionally, Malik Harrison joined the Pittsburgh Steelers, leaving Baltimore with holes to fill at linebacker and on special teams. In response, the Ravens signed former Los Angeles Rams special teamer Jake Hummel.
Hummel played 77% of the Rams’ special teams snaps in 2024 and 80% in 2023. He provides quality depth at linebacker while also giving the Ravens another key special teams contributor.