The Baltimore Ravens' ugly 29-24 loss to the Cleveland Browns exposed just how urgent their issues are across the board.
A backup quarterback picked apart the defense, while the offense couldn’t sustain momentum. Zach Orr's unit struggled yet again, highlighting ongoing issues in the secondary, pass rush, and overall game-planning. The team's recent struggles and repeated miscues make it painfully clear immediate moves are needed to stay competitive.
Inaction isn't an option for a team with Super Bowl aspirations - it's time to plug roster holes and restore balance on both sides of the ball. With the Nov. 5 trade deadline approaching fast, the Ravens need reinforcements to correct course.
Here are three trades that should be on the Ravens' radar.
Three crucial trades Baltimore must pursue after embarrassing loss to the Cleveland Browns
Edge rusher
Baltimore's pass rush isn't what it's been in recent memory.
This season's team struggles to generate consistent pressure in the backfield. The Ravens banked on Odafe Oweh and David Ojabo developing into stars, but that hasn't happened. Kyle Van Noy had a red-hot start to the season, but he's never been a reliable option. Heck, the team even signed in veteran journeyman Yannick Ngakoue midseason, but it hasn't made a significant difference.
The Ravens need more firepower up front. Several edge rushers on the market could provide an instant upgrade. Names like Za'Darius Smith, Chase Young, and Jadeveon Clowney are worth considering, and each might be available for a reasonable price, potentially just a late-round pick.
Wide receiver
Zay Flowers, Rashod Bateman, and Nelson Agholor bring speed, solid route-running, and selflessness to the Ravens' receiving corps. However, one thing this group lacks is significant size, which limits their ability to win contested catches consistently.
Baltimore could pursue a bigger receiver to provide Lamar Jackson with a reliable target in clutch moments. Several names are rumored to be on the trade block, with Tyler Boyd and Gabe Davis being intriguing options. Both could be attainable additions who bring size and playmaking ability, potentially at a bargain price before the deadline.
If the Ravens are willing to spend a bit more, they could target Packers wide receiver Christian Watson. With his role in Green Bay shrinking, he might be a realistic option to bolster Baltimore's receiving corps.
Defensive back
This is the worst passing defense in the NFL. They give up 291.4 passing yards per game. It's atrocious - it's also 20 more yards than the second-worst Jacksonville Jaguars. They desperately need help in the defensive backfield.
Baltimore should immediately add help in the secondary. Tre'Davious White, Marshon Lattimore, Jonathon Jones, and Greg Newsome are four cornerbacks the Ravens could trade for. A late day two or early day three pick feels like fair compensation.