Ravens’ Week 16 loss signals they’ve boxed themselves in with risky extension

After the Baltimore Ravens extended Mark Andrews on a three-year $39 million contract, fans were dubious. Making Andrews one of the five highest-paid tight ends when his production is below that level was always a concern. Add in the fact that his contract is up when he is 32, and it was a clear risk. The saving grace of his contract is that the Ravens have a team option for Andrews before he enters the third year in 2028.

Regardless, in his three games since being extended, Andrews has underperformed. Notably, Andrews has yet to exceed 25 yards or two receptions since inking his new deal. In fact, Sunday's devastating 28-24 loss to the New England Patriots was statistically his most productive game; he recorded just 21 yards and two receptions. That's unacceptable for his high contract.

On Sunday, Andrews had one of the most mind-boggling mistakes ever seen, as when he was about to be tackled, he attempted to throw a lateral pass. This play proved to be inconsequential as the Ravens were bailed out by a roughing the passer call. However, it was an embarrassing mistake. Frankly, it's hard not to be concerned about Andrews' extension after a play like this.

The bigger picture is that Andrews hasn't been productive to justify this contract, and as he ages, it could only look worse. With Andrews' hefty salary, the Ravens will have fewer options this offseason and in future years.

Mark Andrews isn't living up to his contract

As mentioned earlier, Andrews' new contract makes him one of the five highest-paid tight ends. However, his production is far from that of an elite tight end. Among those at the position, Andrews ranks 23rd in receptions, 26th in receiving yards, and 12th in touchdowns. In terms of receptions and yards, Andrews hasn't been in the top five for these stats in the past three years.

Andrews has been a key part of the Ravens' success in the Lamar Jackson era. Impressively, Andrews leads the Ravens franchise in receptions, yards, and touchdowns. He has been a security blanket for Lamar, and the two have clearly shared a connection since coming into the league together in 2018.

Given this, it's understandable that trying to sign him to a cheaper deal this offseason or cutting bait with him entirely would not have been a popular decision within the locker room. Nevertheless, it would probably have been in the best interest of the franchise.

The harsh reality is that tight ends tend to age faster, and Andrews is already showing signs of decline. Andrews' contract will limit the Ravens' flexibility this offseason and beyond.

Overall, it's hard to imagine that Eric DeCosta and the Ravens aren't already having some buyer's remorse with Andrews.