The Baltimore Ravens have been one of the most consistent franchises in the NFL over the past decade, consistently fielding competitive teams with a strong identity built on defense, physicality, and dynamic quarterback play. As they gear up for the 2024 season, the Ravens appear poised to make another deep playoff run—and potentially compete for a Super Bowl—if they can address a few remaining roster concerns before training camp begins. With most of their core intact and key additions already made this offseason, Baltimore could solidify its depth and bolster its championship aspirations by adding one final piece to the puzzle.
General Manager Eric DeCosta has done an excellent job navigating the offseason, retaining critical free agents like Justin Madubuike and adding impact players such as Derrick Henry to an already explosive offense. The Ravens’ roster is undeniably stacked, but there are still areas where they could use additional reinforcement. Whether it’s adding another veteran pass rusher, securing depth in the secondary, or bringing in a reliable wide receiver to complement Zay Flowers and Rashod Bateman, Baltimore has the flexibility to make a calculated move that could pay dividends in a long and grueling NFL season.
One position that stands out as a potential area for improvement is the offensive line. While the Ravens have a strong starting unit anchored by Ronnie Stanley and Tyler Linderbaum, injuries have plagued this group in recent years. Stanley, in particular, has struggled to stay healthy, and while the team has capable backups like Patrick Mekari, adding a proven veteran tackle could provide crucial insurance. A player like Donovan Smith, who remains unsigned, could be a low-risk, high-reward signing if he’s willing to accept a rotational role. Depth on the interior line could also be addressed, especially with Kevin Zeitler departing in free agency. A seasoned guard like Dalton Risner, who is still available, could compete for a starting job while providing valuable experience.
Another area where the Ravens could look to add depth is at cornerback. Marlon Humphrey remains one of the league’s best when healthy, but he has dealt with injuries in recent seasons. Behind him, Brandon Stephens and rookie Nate Wiggins offer promise, but adding a veteran presence could help solidify the group. Steven Nelson, who played well for the Houston Texans last season, could be an ideal fit. He’s a reliable outside corner with playoff experience and wouldn’t command a hefty contract at this stage of the offseason. Given the pass-heavy nature of the AFC—with quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes, Joe Burrow, and Josh Allen standing in the way of a Super Bowl run—having as many quality corners as possible is a necessity.
The pass rush is another area where Baltimore could explore an addition. The Ravens have a formidable duo in Odafe Oweh and Kyle Van Noy, but Van Noy is getting older, and Oweh has yet to fully break out as a consistent double-digit sack artist. Jadeveon Clowney, who had a resurgent year in Baltimore last season, remains unsigned, and a reunion could make sense if the price is right. Alternatively, the Ravens could look at a veteran like Yannick Ngakoue, who has familiarity with the organization and could provide situational pass-rush help. In a league where pressuring the quarterback is paramount, having an extra edge rusher could be the difference in tight playoff games.
Wide receiver is another position that could use reinforcement. While Zay Flowers looks like a future star and Rashod Bateman has shown flashes, the depth behind them is unproven. Nelson Agholor is a solid veteran, but adding another reliable target for Lamar Jackson could take the offense to another level. A player like Hunter Renfrow, who was released by the Las Vegas Raiders, could be an intriguing option. Renfrow is a precise route-runner with sure hands, making him an ideal slot receiver who could thrive in Todd Monken’s system. Alternatively, the Ravens could explore a trade for a disgruntled receiver like Courtland Sutton if the Denver Broncos decide to move him. While this would require giving up draft capital, adding a proven playmaker could be worth it for a team in win-now mode.
The linebacker position is another spot where depth could be addressed. With Patrick Queen departing in free agency, the Ravens are banking on Trenton Simpson to step up alongside Roquan Smith. While Simpson has potential, relying on a relatively unproven player in a critical role is risky. Bringing in a veteran like Zach Cunningham or Kwon Alexander could provide insurance and allow Simpson to develop without being thrust into an overwhelming role. Both Cunningham and Alexander have experience in defensive systems similar to Baltimore’s and could contribute immediately on early downs or in sub-packages.
Of course, any potential signing would have to fit within the Ravens’ tight salary cap situation. DeCosta has done a masterful job managing the cap, but space is limited. However, Baltimore has a history of finding value in the veteran market, often signing players to team-friendly deals with incentives. The allure of playing for a contender could also help convince a free agent to take a slightly lower salary for a chance at a ring. Additionally, the Ravens could create cap space with a simple restructure or two if they identify a player they truly covet.
The timing of any potential move is also worth considering. With training camp approaching, many veterans are likely waiting to see how rosters shape up before signing. Some may prefer to avoid the grind of camp altogether and join a team closer to the season. The Ravens could afford to be patient, monitoring the market for potential bargains as other teams make roster cuts. However, acting sooner rather than later could allow a new addition to build chemistry with the team and fully integrate into the system before Week 1.
Ultimately, the Ravens don’t need a blockbuster move to solidify their status as Super Bowl contenders. Their roster is already among the most complete in the league, and their coaching staff, led by John Harbaugh, is one of the best in the business. However, football is a game of attrition, and depth often determines how far a team can go. Adding one more reliable veteran—whether on the offensive line, in the secondary, at pass rusher, or at receiver—could provide the necessary insurance to withstand injuries and match up against the AFC’s elite when it matters most.
Baltimore’s championship window is wide open, thanks to the presence of Lamar Jackson in his prime and a defense that consistently ranks among the league’s best. The pieces are in place for a special season, but as last year’s AFC Championship Game loss to the Kansas City Chiefs showed, the margin for error is slim. One final roster addition could be the difference between another heartbreaking playoff exit and a long-awaited return to the Super Bowl. Eric DeCosta has earned a reputation as one of the NFL’s shrewdest executives, and if history is any indication, he’s not done tinkering with this roster just yet. Ravens fans should keep an eye out for one more move that could push this team over the top.
