The Baltimore Ravens’ playoff journey came to a heartbreaking end Sunday night, falling 27-25 to the Buffalo Bills in the Divisional Round. In a game that felt like a microcosm of their season, the Ravens flashed moments of brilliance but couldn’t overcome critical mistakes.
Lamar Jackson’s late-game heroics gave the Ravens a chance to tie it, but a costly drop on the two-point conversion sealed their fate. It was a crushing finish to a season filled with promise, as Baltimore once again fell just short of their ultimate goal.
Amid the disappointment, Patrick Ricard isn’t holding back about where he wants to be next season: Baltimore. The five-time Pro Bowl fullback, better known as "Pancake Pat" to Lamar Jackson and Ravens fans alike, has made it crystal clear—he wants to retire in Purple and Black.
“I want to retire here,” Ricard told reporters, leaving no room for doubt about his intentions. With free agency looming, his candidness is a rare breath of fresh air in a league where players often keep their plans under wraps.
But it’s not just about Ricard’s loyalty to the Ravens; it’s about what he believes this team can accomplish. He’s all in on Lamar Jackson as the face of the franchise, saying, “It’s inevitable that he’s going to win a Super Bowl.”
Patrick Ricard on Lamar Jackson: “It’s inevitable that he’s going to win a Supep Bowl.”
— Jeff Zrebiec (@jeffzrebiec) January 20, 2025
Ricard, a pending FA, said he wants to remain a Raven and be in Baltimore his whole career.
Eric DeCosta should do everything he can to bring Ricard back
Ricard isn’t just another fullback—he’s the Ravens’ battering ram, clearing paths for running backs and keeping Lamar upright with his signature pancake blocks. At 300 pounds, Ricard’s unique blend of size, athleticism, and versatility has made him indispensable in Baltimore’s run-heavy attack.
Whether he’s blowing up defenders, catching the occasional pass, or lining up at tight end or in-line, Ricard’s value goes beyond the stat sheet. Losing him would leave a noticeable void, both on the field and in the locker room.
And let’s be real—Ricard isn’t just a key piece for the Ravens’ offense. He’s a fan favorite. Few players embody the grit and physicality that Ravens fans love as Ricard does. His passion for Baltimore, combined with his faith in the team’s future, makes it impossible not to root for him.
Now, the ball is in Eric DeCosta’s court. The Ravens’ general manager has a tricky offseason ahead, with a tight salary cap and multiple free agents to consider. But if there’s one player who’s proven his worth time and time again, it’s Ricard.
For Ricard, staying isn’t just about loyalty—it’s about knowing the Ravens are on the brink of something special. He sees the potential for another Lombardi Trophy and wants to be part of the team that makes it happen.
If it’s up to "Pancake Pat," his career will begin and end in Baltimore. Whether the front office feels the same way remains to be seen, but one thing’s for sure—Ravens fans will be hoping he sticks around.