As Week 2 of free agency commences, the Ravens have ten fits, including Justin Simmons and Za’Darius Smith.
As Week 2 of NFL free agency kicks off, the Baltimore Ravens are one of the most interesting teams to watch. With a successful track record in securing key free agent signings and managing a competitive roster, the Ravens have shown a strong commitment to improving their team year after year. In particular, as the Ravens have secured some notable players in previous offseasons, the franchise has consistently shown an ability to identify high-impact veterans that could potentially fill key roster gaps and elevate the overall performance of the team. In Week 2 of free agency, the Ravens are linked with ten notable fits, including two key names that could reshape their defense: Justin Simmons, the talented safety from the Denver Broncos, and Za’Darius Smith, the explosive pass rusher from the Minnesota Vikings.
This piece will dive into why these players and others make sense for the Ravens, what they could bring to the table, and how these moves could influence the team’s Super Bowl aspirations in the 2025 NFL season.
Justin Simmons: A Playmaking Safety to Bolster the Secondary
One of the more intriguing names the Ravens are linked to in Week 2 of free agency is Justin Simmons, the standout safety from the Denver Broncos. The 28-year-old Simmons has been one of the NFL’s most consistent and impactful safeties over the last few years, with his blend of ball skills, leadership, and field awareness making him one of the top free agents on the market.
The Need for Safety Help
The Ravens’ secondary is arguably one of their strongest units, but it is an area that could still use some bolstering. The departure of key veteran players like Earl Thomas has left a gap in the back end of the defense, and while veterans like Chuck Clark have filled in admirably, adding a player of Simmons’ caliber would provide an immediate upgrade.
Simmons is a player who thrives in a system that demands versatility. Known for his ability to play both in the box and as a deep safety, Simmons would give the Ravens more flexibility in their defensive schemes. In a defense that prides itself on disguising coverages and bringing pressure from different angles, having a safety like Simmons, who can excel in both coverage and run support, would make life much more difficult for opposing quarterbacks.
Moreover, his ball-hawking skills are particularly valuable. Simmons has been a consistent playmaker for the Broncos, recording multiple interceptions and pass breakups each season. Given the Ravens’ focus on creating turnovers, Simmons would complement the likes of Marlon Humphrey and Marcus Peters in the secondary, creating an even more opportunistic defense.
The Fit with the Ravens’ Defense
The Ravens’ defensive coordinator, Mike Macdonald, runs a scheme that places a premium on versatility and adaptability. Simmons would fit well into Macdonald’s system, as he is capable of playing a variety of roles. Whether as a centerfielder in deep coverage or as a blitzer in a disguised pressure look, Simmons would offer the Ravens the flexibility to adjust their defensive approach depending on the situation.
Additionally, Simmons has shown the ability to be a vocal leader in the locker room and on the field, something that the Ravens value highly. His leadership would be an asset in a secondary that includes some established stars in Humphrey and Peters, while also helping to mentor younger players like Brandon Stephens and Ar’Darius Washington. The combination of skill and leadership could make Simmons a perfect fit in Baltimore’s culture.
Za’Darius Smith: The Pass Rusher to Complete the Ravens’ Front Seven
Another player that is reportedly a good fit for the Ravens is Za’Darius Smith, the dynamic edge rusher who played for the Minnesota Vikings in 2024. Smith’s prowess as a pass rusher has earned him a reputation as one of the more disruptive players at his position. Given the Ravens’ ongoing pursuit of improving their pass rush, Smith could prove to be a game-changer for Baltimore’s defense in the 2025 season.
A Much-Needed Pass Rush Boost
The Ravens’ pass rush has been a point of emphasis in recent years, with the team constantly looking for ways to generate more pressure on opposing quarterbacks. While the Ravens have some talented players like Odafe Oweh and David Ojabo, adding an experienced veteran like Smith would give the team a proven pass rusher who can consistently get to the quarterback.
Smith is coming off a solid 2024 season with the Vikings, recording 10 sacks and 12 tackles for loss. His ability to generate pressure from the edge would be especially beneficial in a division where quarterbacks like Joe Burrow and Deshaun Watson can make plays with their legs and extend plays. The Ravens’ defense would benefit immensely from having a player who can consistently collapse the pocket and make quarterbacks uncomfortable.
Moreover, Smith has a reputation for being a high-motor player with an infectious attitude. His passion for the game and his leadership in the trenches would align perfectly with the Ravens’ culture, known for its toughness and physicality. Smith’s experience would also be invaluable in mentoring younger edge rushers like Oweh, who is still developing his pass-rush repertoire.
Fit within the Ravens’ Scheme
Smith’s skill set aligns perfectly with what the Ravens need in their pass-rushing game. His ability to win one-on-one matchups with offensive tackles, combined with his strength and speed, would give the Ravens a legitimate threat on the edge. Smith’s versatility also allows him to line up in different spots along the defensive front, adding another layer of unpredictability to the Ravens’ defensive scheme.
In addition to his pass-rushing prowess, Smith is also capable against the run. His physicality and understanding of leverage would help shore up the Ravens’ run defense, which has been inconsistent at times. Smith would give the Ravens another tool to deploy in their defensive arsenal, allowing them to match up effectively against teams with potent running games.
Other Notable Free Agent Fits for the Ravens
While Simmons and Smith are two of the headliners, the Ravens are reportedly considering several other players who could make a significant impact. Below are a few other notable free agents that could fit well with Baltimore’s roster needs:
1. Jamel Dean – Cornerback
The Ravens are always looking to strengthen their secondary, and Jamel Dean, the free-agent cornerback from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, could be an intriguing option. At 6’1″ and 206 pounds, Dean has the size and speed to match up with a variety of receivers, making him an ideal fit in the Ravens’ defensive scheme. With Marcus Peters entering the latter stages of his career and the team needing depth at cornerback, adding a player like Dean would further solidify their defensive backfield.
2. David Montgomery – Running Back
The Ravens have been known for their dynamic running game, and while they have an elite back in J.K. Dobbins, adding a versatile back like David Montgomery from the Detroit Lions could provide a much-needed complement. Montgomery’s ability to run between the tackles, catch passes out of the backfield, and provide tough yards would give the Ravens an additional weapon in their backfield rotation.
3. Donovan Smith – Offensive Tackle
With the Ravens facing some uncertainty along their offensive line, adding a veteran tackle like Donovan Smith from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers could be a smart move. Smith’s experience and solid play as a left tackle would provide stability for Lamar Jackson, especially if the Ravens want to continue their focus on a balanced offensive attack.
4. T.J. Edwards – Linebacker
T.J. Edwards, the linebacker from the Philadelphia Eagles, could help improve the Ravens’ already solid linebacking corps. Edwards is known for his intelligence, tackling ability, and ability to cover ground. His instincts would allow him to excel in Baltimore’s defensive scheme, and he would provide valuable depth at the linebacker position.
5. Daron Payne – Defensive Tackle
With the departure of veteran defensive tackle Calais Campbell, the Ravens could look to add a disruptive presence on the interior of the defensive line. Daron Payne, the former Washington Commanders’ defensive tackle, could be a perfect fit. Payne is a powerful force against the run, and his ability to collapse the pocket would complement the Ravens’ pass-rushing efforts.
Super Bowl Aspirations
As Week 2 of free agency rolls on, the Ravens have the opportunity to significantly improve their roster by adding players like Justin Simmons, Za’Darius Smith, and others. Both Simmons and Smith would fill significant gaps in the Ravens’ defense, with Simmons bringing coverage skills and playmaking ability to the secondary, while Smith would provide an added edge rush presence. These additions, along with other potential signings, could help the Ravens solidify their Super Bowl aspirations for the 2025 season.
With Lamar Jackson under center and a defense that is consistently among the best in the NFL, the Ravens are positioned to make another deep playoff run. If the team can add a few more pieces through free agency, they could be poised to make a legitimate push for the championship. As always, the Ravens’ front office will be looking for high-value signings that can contribute immediately, and the players on their radar in Week 2 of free agency could very well be the key to their next Super Bowl victory.