Baltimore Ravens Free Agency news: Analyzing NFL team's latest signings
The Baltimore Ravens' 2023 offseason is heavily focused on quarterback Lamar Jackson.
Jackson received the non-exclusive franchise tag on the deadline day for franchise tags, accounting for nearly 15% of Baltimore's salary cap this year. If Jackson signs an offer sheet with another team, the franchise could receive two first-round picks as compensation if they decline to match it.
However, if he remains with the team, his tag limits Baltimore's available cap space and ability to improve his supporting cast. It could become even worse if they match as the first year terms may include an even higher cap charge.
Ravens’ GM Eric DeCosta on Lamar Jackson: https://t.co/uvPBb0fp5t
The Ravens' biggest need is at wide receiver, which coach John Harbaugh said needs to be revamped. Additionally, the team will need to address cornerback and guard if they lose Marcus Peters, along with already departed guard Ben Powers, their top unrestricted free agents.
Baltimore Ravens signings
Geno Stone (S) signed a one-year deal. Baltimore re-signed Stone, one day after not tendering him as a restricted free agent. Stone is a valuable backup and a top special teams player who stepped up last season when he started a career-high seven games, filling in for the injured Marcus Williams.
Stone's participation in 70% of the special teams snaps last season also adds value.There is no risk here as Baltimore desperately needed depth at safety, and Stone becomes the top backup behind Williams and Kyle Hamilton after the Ravens traded Chuck Clark to the Jets.
Nick Moore (LS) signed a two-year deal as the franchise retained one of the NFL's top long-snappers, who drew interest elsewhere. Moore was named a second-team All-Pro last season and has been Baltimore's long-snapper for the last two seasons, replacing Morgan Cox. Moore's consistency has been integral to the success of Justin Tucker, the most accurate kicker in NFL history.
The franchise re-signed Justice Hill (RB) to a two-year, $4.5 million deal. Hill is the team's No. 3 running back behind J.K. Dobbins and Gus Edwards, and a top special teams player.
I can’t get over the fact the Baltimore Ravens followed this Justice Hill magic with a three and out and a punt.
This team, man. #RavensFlock https://t.co/Irv22DWfCl
After missing the entire 2021 season with an Achilles injury, Hill showed incredible burst last season, averaging a career-best 5.3 yards per carry. Hill is the only remaining player from Baltimore's eight-player draft class in 2019.
Notable Baltimore Ravens departures
Due to Jackson's potential high cap hit, Baltimore has had to move on from some players they would have wanted to keep. These include guard Ben Powers, blocking tight end Josh Oliver, and defensive line Calais Campbell. Once the Jackson situation is resolved, expect the Ravens to make some moves to reload at these positions, as well as at wide receiver.