1. In Eric DeCosta we trust
The Ravens could have retained many of their big internal free agents, as names like Patrick Queen, Geno Stone, and Jadeveon Clowney all hit the open market. Queen joined the hated Steelers, Stone took a starting role with the rival Bengals, and Clowney returned home to the Panthers.
DeCosta has proven to be one of the better GMs in the league over the last few years, and one of the main factors behind that reputation is his ability to replace expensive veterans with standout rookies through the draft. Baltimore is wisely banking on another DeCosta masterclass in April to build the rest of this team's roster.
The Baltimore Ravens are letting Eric DeCosta do his thing.
Trenton Simpson is ready to replace Queen, and Baltimore selected two prized cornerbacks in Nate Wiggins and T.J. Tampa to counteract Stephens' impending free agency and Marlon Humphrey's contract situation. Role players like Adisa Isaac on the edge and Devontez Walker at wide receiver should play roles early in their careers.
The Ravens may have failed to get to the Super Bowl in the Jackson era, but they have a strong foundation. If DeCosta is able to retain his big internal stars while replacing veterans with even more talented youngsters, he could finally give Baltimore the boost they need to overtake the Chiefs atop the AFC.