Ravens Eyes Cheaper Cornerback Replacement for Brandon Stephens
The Ravens’ Search for a Cheaper Cornerback Replacement for Brandon Stephens: An In-Depth Look
The Baltimore Ravens are known for their strong defensive play and their ability to unearth talented players on both sides of the ball. In recent years, however, the team has faced challenges at certain positions, notably cornerback. Brandon Stephens, a player drafted by the Ravens in the third round of the 2021 NFL Draft, had hopes of becoming a staple in Baltimore’s secondary. While his development showed promise, the team is now at a crossroads where they need to look for a cheaper cornerback replacement to fill the void left by Stephens or even further bolster their cornerback depth chart.
This article will explore the factors that led the Ravens to consider a change at cornerback, the importance of having a reliable but cost-effective player in this position, and potential candidates who could replace Brandon Stephens in the Ravens’ defensive lineup. We will analyze both internal and external options and break down what the Ravens need in a replacement and why finding an affordable cornerback is crucial to maintaining their defensive strength and financial flexibility.
1. Brandon Stephens’ Tenure with the Ravens
Brandon Stephens entered the NFL with high expectations after being selected in the third round of the 2021 draft. A former running back turned cornerback at SMU, Stephens showed flashes of potential during his college career, and the Ravens saw him as a versatile prospect who could contribute in both coverage and run defense.
Initially, Stephens was expected to be a key player in the Ravens’ secondary, potentially filling the role of a long-term starting cornerback. His early performances, however, were inconsistent. While he demonstrated some solid traits — such as solid tackling ability and physicality — he struggled with some of the nuances of playing cornerback at the professional level, particularly in man coverage and reading the offense’s routes.
Despite some early growing pains, the Ravens coaching staff remained patient with Stephens, hoping that with time, he could develop into a reliable option. However, as the 2023 season came to a close, it became clear that Stephens had not made the strides the Ravens had hoped for. His coverage stats and overall performance were not up to the standards expected from a starting cornerback in the NFL.
Given that the Ravens have always prided themselves on their defensive prowess and defensive back play, the team needed to make tough decisions about their roster going forward. While the decision to move on from Stephens wasn’t made hastily, there’s now a pressing need to find a more cost-effective and reliable solution in the secondary.
2. The Ravens’ Defensive Philosophy and the Need for Cornerback Depth
The Ravens are renowned for their defensive schemes, largely built around a strong front seven and a versatile secondary that can cover multiple threats. Over the years, Baltimore has relied heavily on their cornerbacks to not only shut down wide receivers but also to contribute in the run game and provide flexibility in various defensive schemes. A successful defense in Baltimore often involves cornerbacks who can perform well in press coverage, provide solid run support, and occasionally be relied upon in special situations like blitzing or covering tight ends.
In recent years, the Ravens have found success in finding cornerbacks who fit their system, and they have developed players like Marlon Humphrey, Marcus Peters, and Jimmy Smith to be reliable playmakers in their secondary. However, with aging players like Smith and the potential for costly contracts for established starters, the Ravens have looked for more budget-friendly options at the cornerback position. A shift toward finding a cheaper replacement for Brandon Stephens would fit within the broader organizational strategy of maintaining depth at the position without committing to expensive, long-term contracts.
3. Why a Cheaper Cornerback is Essential
The NFL is a league where cap space is everything, and teams must manage their resources effectively. The Ravens are no exception. In recent seasons, Baltimore has been forced to navigate the complexities of a tight salary cap, especially as they continue to allocate significant funds to star players such as quarterback Lamar Jackson, linebacker Roquan Smith, and cornerback Marlon Humphrey. These large contracts put pressure on the team to find cost-effective ways to bolster their roster without breaking the bank.
A cheaper cornerback option is crucial because of several reasons:
- Salary Cap Flexibility: The NFL has a hard salary cap, which means teams must operate within a fixed spending limit. Finding a replacement for Stephens who can perform at a similar level for less money would allow the Ravens to allocate funds to other pressing areas of need.
- Depth Building: Cornerback depth is always important in the modern NFL. Injuries are inevitable, and having reliable backups or rotational players who can step up without costing a fortune is crucial to maintaining overall roster strength.
- Long-Term Planning: The Ravens are focused on building a competitive team for the long term. A cheap cornerback replacement who can contribute immediately would provide short-term value while allowing the team to continue developing their core players and preparing for the future.
4. Potential Internal Replacements for Brandon Stephens
The Ravens’ first step in replacing Brandon Stephens could involve internal candidates, which would likely be the most cost-effective route. The Ravens have several young players who could step up and contribute at cornerback. Here are a few potential internal candidates:
a) Ar’Darius Washington
Ar’Darius Washington is a smaller cornerback who has bounced between safety and cornerback in the NFL. With a versatile skill set, he could be an intriguing option for the Ravens to consider as a slot cornerback or a depth piece. Washington has flashed moments of playmaking ability during his time in Baltimore, and his physicality and instincts could make him a strong candidate to step into a more prominent role. However, his lack of size may limit his effectiveness in certain situations.
b) Daryl Worley
Daryl Worley is another player who could be considered as a potential replacement for Stephens. Worley has a more experienced background, having played for multiple teams over his career. His ability to play both outside cornerback and in the slot gives him versatility, which is crucial in Baltimore’s defensive schemes. While not a superstar, Worley could provide solid depth for a relatively low cost.
c) Kevon Seymour
Seymour, who has spent time as a practice squad player for the Ravens, could emerge as another low-cost option for Baltimore. He has shown flashes of potential but has not been given significant playing time. However, as a special-teams contributor and a depth piece, Seymour could step in and compete for a spot on the roster.
While these internal candidates provide some cost-effective options, they also represent risks. Washington, Worley, and Seymour all bring varying degrees of upside but are relatively unproven as consistent starters. The Ravens may not feel confident enough in these players to entirely replace Stephens without bolstering the position through other means.
5. External Free-Agent Cornerbacks
If the Ravens are not satisfied with their internal options, they could look to the free-agent market to find a cheaper cornerback replacement. Several players could be available who would fit into the Ravens’ system, potentially at a lower cost than the standard starting cornerback.
a) Chris Harris Jr.
Chris Harris Jr. is a seasoned veteran who has made a name for himself as one of the NFL’s top slot cornerbacks over the years. While he may not be the same player he once was, Harris is still an experienced, reliable option. His knowledge of the game and ability to defend the pass could be a valuable asset to a Ravens team looking to maintain defensive efficiency without spending top-tier money.
b) Xavien Howard
Xavien Howard is a former Pro Bowl cornerback for the Miami Dolphins who has been on the trading block for some time due to the Dolphins’ cap constraints. While Howard may be more expensive than other available options, his ability to shut down top wide receivers makes him an attractive trade target for the Ravens if they want to spend a bit more to secure a high-caliber player.
c) Dante Jackson
Dante Jackson, currently with the Carolina Panthers, is another cornerback whose market value could be lower than other top-tier options. Jackson has a reputation for speed and playmaking ability but has had issues with consistency. He could be a high-risk, high-reward signing who may offer more upside than some of the internal candidates.
6. Drafting a Cornerback
Finally, the Ravens could choose to address the cornerback position through the NFL Draft. This route would be the most financially efficient, as draft picks are generally cheaper than signing veterans in free agency. The Ravens have had success drafting defensive players in the past and could find a long-term solution at cornerback in the draft.
Some potential draft options include:
- Devon Witherspoon (Illinois): A versatile and highly skilled cornerback with a track record of success in college.
- Cam Smith (South Carolina): Another strong cornerback prospect with excellent coverage skills and good size.
- Joey Porter Jr. (Penn State): Known for his physicality and strong press coverage skills, Porter could be a great fit for the Ravens’ defense.
While draft picks come with inherent uncertainty, selecting a cornerback with high potential could set the team up for long-term success at the position.
Replacing Brandon Stephens is an important task for the Ravens, especially as they look to maintain their defensive prowess without overspending. Whether the team turns to internal options, free agents, or the draft, the goal remains the same: find a cost-effective player who can contribute meaningfully in the secondary.
Ultimately, the Ravens will need to balance short-term needs with long-term potential, and choosing the right player will have a significant impact on their defense. By staying proactive in their search for a replacement and maintaining financial flexibility, the Ravens can continue to build one of the NFL’s most formidable defenses.