3 trades to make Ravens championship contenders in 2023
By Ryan Heckman
This offseason, we have seen the Baltimore Ravens go all-in on winning a championship behind the talent of quarterback Lamar Jackson.
After the contract saga was sorted out, that became even more apparent. Not only did the Ravens sign Odell Beckham Jr., but they drafted Zay Flowers to give Jackson two electric weapons at his disposal to go along with the steady run game and talent at tight end.
The moves the Ravens have made over the last few months signal one thing: they are serious about competing this coming season. But, could the Ravens look to make another move before Week 1?
If general manager Eric DeCosta wanted to ensure a Super Bowl this season, there are three moves he could make.
Trade 1: Acqiure G Joel Bitonio from Cleveland
One of the first trades the Ravens could try and pull off might be the most difficult, considering it's within the division. However, the Vikings proved last year that such a trade could be done when they snagged T.J. Hockenson from the Lions.
Here, we would see the Ravens go after Browns guard Joel Bitonio, who has made four Pro Bowls in a row and is a two-time All Pro. Baltimore still has one starting spot up for grabs across their offensive line, and that's at guard. Bitonio would solidify that immediately.
Having been one of the best guards in football for a few years now, Bitonio is also as dependable as they come. He's played every game of the last six seasons for Cleveland.
Might it take more than a third-round pick to get him? Possibly. But, the veteran is soon to be 32 years old and the Browns could look to get a little younger, assuming they know they're not realistically competing for a Super Bowl this season.
However, the Ravens are, and Bitonio would be a huge asset to those efforts.