Haason Reddick trade needs to happen if Ravens don't sign Jadeveon Clowney

The Baltimore Ravens and pass rusher Jadeveon Clowney appear to be engaged in a serious staring contest. While there have been rumors that both parties would like to run it back this season, the fact Baltimore hasn't sealed the deal could prompt Eric DeCosta to start looking elsewhere for upgrades.

The Philadelphia Eagles' offseason activity and further fortification of their defensive line could make one of the best pass rushers in the game available via trade in Haason Reddick. With Josh Sweat having agreed to a reworked contract after being shopped, Reddick seems like the more likely move.

With Bryce Huff coming in on a $51 million contract, Sweat sticking around, and first-round pick Nolan Smith in need of more reps, Reddick could net Philly a fairly impressive return if he ends up getting moved, and the Ravens have a want for a game-changing pass rusher in their system.

For familiarity, financial, and run-stuffing reasons, Clowney should still be the priority for DeCosta. However, if he is unable to get much of anything going, the Ravens need to ride in and make a shattering trade for him. In an all-in championship push, no available player may help this defense more than Reddick.

Baltimore Ravens must make Haason Reddick trade if Jadeveon Clowney isn't signed

Clowney is still one of the best run-defending ends in the league, and his 9.5 sacks last year showed tremendous pass-rushing skill the former No. 1 pick hadn't uncorked in years. While he has interest from teams like his hometown Panthers and the new-look Jets, the Ravens should still be a very appealing option.

If he doesn't come back, bringing in a player who has recorded at least 11 sacks in each of the last four seasons seems like a solid move. Consider that Reddick, a year removed from 16 sacks and a Super Bowl appearance, was stupidly being played inside and dropped into coverage quite frequently. He still managed to pile up 11 quarterback takedowns.

What the Ravens would lose in Clowney's physicality they would make up for in Reddick's speed and pursuit. By using one of their top draft picks on a bigger defensive end who can help play the run, Baltimore could replace Clowney while keeping their pass rush as sharp as ever.

With one-time Baltimore target Khalil Mack agreeing to stay with the Chargers, Reddick is now the top trade target on the market. Philadelphia is a willing trade partner, and the Ravens could be a bit cavalier about trading picks as they try to finally get Lamar Jackson over the hump.