With the Baltimore Ravens being connected to some of the biggest free agent running backs in the league in Derrick Henry and Saquon Barkley, it seems less likely than ever before that GM Eric DeCosta is going to run it back with Gus Edwards and J.K. Dobbins.
Between Edwards' inability to muster up to a Pro Bowl talent like Henry and Dobbins' constant injury problems ruining what was once one of the best young running backs in the game, the Ravens would be wise to take what limited cap space they have and spend it on a player who will touch the ball 250 times and be an offensive focal point.
A new wrinkle was added to their RB pursuit recently, as DeCosta talked up the importance of continuity at the NFL Combine. His most recent comments make it seem like Baltimore is seriously considering bringing everyone from last season back on offense.
“We’re still talking to Gus. We’ll talk to J.K...a couple of free agents that we had,” DeCosta said. “We’re hopeful that we can get something done with those guys.” Perhaps losing them to free agency isn't as much of a given as those who want Henry or Barkley might believe.
Ravens hopeful they can get something done with Gus Edwards, J.K. Dobbins. https://t.co/YrV0Gk6xb9
— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) February 28, 2024
Baltimore Ravens trying to retain Gus Edwards, J.K. Dobbins
After rushing for 13 touchdowns in his first four seasons, the hot free agent target Edwards matched that total in a breakout 2023 campaign. While his receiving value is next to nothing and he lacks tremendous speed, his short-yardage skill might make him the primary back in Baltimore's committee-based attack.
Dobbins has averaged a preposterous 5.8 yards per carry in the pros, showing the big-play ability from Ohio State has transferred over. However, he has played in just nine games since 2021, as two serious injuries must create some serious doubt over his ability to get back to his old form.
The Ravens still have quality depth, as Justice Hill and banged-up rookie standout Keaton Mitchell will make sure the running game doesn't completely fall off a cliff. The true success of the league-best running game might come down to whether one lone star is a better primary option than the Edwards-Dobbins duo.
There's an argument to be made for keeping both of these backs, but some Ravens fans might be a bit disappointed after weeks of being linked to some of the best in the business. Still, both of them have proven themselves in the league, and playing with Jackson is sure to boost their numbers.