The Baltimore Ravens have already won the Big AFC North offseason, and Marlon Humphrey has plans for free agency.

I. Introduction

The 2024 NFL offseason has already proven to be a game-changer for the Baltimore Ravens, as they’ve made key moves to solidify their position as the team to beat in the AFC North. After a 2024 season that saw the Ravens make significant strides in both offense and defense, they’ve continued to enhance their roster, with major free-agent signings and strategic draft selections. Their aggressive approach in free agency, combined with shrewd draft picks, has set them apart from their rivals in the AFC North, making them the early favorites for the 2024-2025 season.

In the midst of this offseason shake-up, one player’s future with the team stands out: cornerback Marlon Humphrey. As one of the most dominant defenders in the league, Humphrey’s plans for free agency are of great interest to fans, analysts, and the Ravens’ front office. This article takes a deep dive into the Ravens’ offseason dominance in the AFC North, how Humphrey fits into the team’s future, and what could lie ahead for him as free agency approaches.

II. Ravens’ Dominance in the AFC North Offseason

The AFC North has historically been one of the most competitive divisions in the NFL. In the 2024-2025 offseason, the Ravens have emerged as the clear frontrunner, largely due to their strategic moves in free agency and the draft.

Key Signings and Trades

The Ravens have always been known for their strong defensive identity, but in 2024, they expanded their efforts to strengthen both sides of the ball. One of the most notable moves was the signing of wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins, a veteran playmaker who gives Lamar Jackson an elite target on the outside. Hopkins’ arrival provides the Ravens with a proven threat to complement their young receivers and tight ends, creating a more dynamic offensive unit. The Ravens also addressed their defensive line by signing former All-Pro pass rusher Yannick Ngakoue, who adds depth and explosiveness to the front seven.

The Ravens also locked up key pieces from within, including linebacker Patrick Queen, who was re-signed to a multi-year deal, ensuring that their defense remains as fearsome as ever.

Draft Success and Future Focus

In the draft, the Ravens focused on bolstering their offensive line and adding depth to their secondary. They selected offensive tackle Jake Matthews with their first-round pick, a versatile lineman who will immediately compete for a starting spot and protect Lamar Jackson’s blindside. The Ravens also added cornerback Jahari Anderson in the second round, a young corner with immense potential to develop into a starting role next to Humphrey.

This draft strategy indicates the Ravens’ long-term vision to remain competitive both in the short and long term. They are building for sustained success, balancing between adding immediate impact players and developing future stars.

Coaching Staff and Schemes

A major offseason change for the Ravens was the hire of new offensive coordinator Todd Monken. Monken’s arrival signals a shift toward a more dynamic, pass-heavy offense that can better complement Jackson’s dual-threat ability. Under Monken’s leadership, the Ravens are expected to increase their offensive firepower, which will make them more well-rounded and dangerous.

On the defensive side, head coach John Harbaugh continues to employ his renowned aggressive defensive strategies. The Ravens’ defense will remain a top unit in the NFL, especially with the addition of Ngakoue and the development of younger players in the secondary.

III. Marlon Humphrey’s Impact on the Ravens

Performance in 2024 Season

Marlon Humphrey has long been considered one of the premier cornerbacks in the NFL, and 2024 was no exception. As the cornerstone of the Ravens’ secondary, Humphrey continued to showcase his elite ability to shut down opposing receivers. He notched multiple interceptions, including a game-winning pick-six against the Bengals in a critical divisional matchup. His ability to lock down top receivers and make plays in clutch moments solidified his place as one of the league’s top defenders.

Humphrey’s leadership extends beyond his play on the field. His mentorship of younger corners, particularly rookie Jahari Anderson, has helped set the tone for the Ravens’ secondary. His vocal presence in the locker room is just as important as his playmaking ability on game days.

Marlon Humphrey’s Contract Situation

Humphrey is currently under contract with the Ravens, but with his current deal set to expire after the 2024 season, questions have arisen about his future in Baltimore. The Ravens are notoriously tight with their salary cap, but they’ve always managed to retain their core players. Humphrey’s contract situation will be a point of focus as the offseason progresses.

With Baltimore’s cap space projected to be limited in 2025, it’s unclear whether the Ravens will be able to extend Humphrey on the terms he desires. Humphrey has earned a lucrative contract extension, and with his skillset continuing to elevate, other teams will certainly be in the market for a shutdown corner like him. The question remains: will the Ravens be able to retain him, or will Humphrey be tempted by a massive free-agent deal elsewhere?

Future in Baltimore or Free Agency?

The Ravens face a difficult decision regarding Humphrey’s future. If the team cannot reach a favorable deal with him before the start of the 2025 season, they risk losing him to free agency. Several teams, including the Philadelphia Eagles, Dallas Cowboys, and New York Jets, could look to add a proven cornerback like Humphrey to their roster.

However, Baltimore’s track record of retaining top talent and their commitment to building a championship-caliber team could motivate them to find a way to keep him. Given their cap situation and the need to manage other key contracts, the Ravens will need to get creative with their salary cap management to make room for Humphrey’s extension.

IV. AFC North Overview: How the Ravens Stand Out

Competition in the AFC North

While the Bengals have made significant strides with Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase, and the Steelers are always competitive with Mike Tomlin at the helm, the Ravens’ offseason moves have positioned them as the team to beat in the division. The Browns, on the other hand, have struggled to find consistent quarterback play, which has held them back in recent seasons.

Baltimore’s addition of top-tier talent like DeAndre Hopkins and Yannick Ngakoue, combined with the continued development of Lamar Jackson and their dominant defense, gives them a clear edge over their AFC North rivals. As long as the Ravens stay healthy and continue to make strong decisions in free agency and the draft, they will remain the team to beat in the division.

V. Marlon Humphrey’s Plans for Free Agency

Potential Destinations

Should Humphrey enter free agency, several teams could line up to sign him. The Eagles, who need help in the secondary, could be a prime destination. Teams like the Cowboys and Jets, with deep pockets and a need for cornerback talent, will also be in the mix.

His Legacy in Baltimore

Humphrey’s legacy in Baltimore is already cemented, but if he leaves, it will be a bittersweet moment for Ravens fans. He has been a cornerstone of the defense for several seasons, and losing him would leave a void that would be difficult to fill.

What’s Next?

The Ravens’ offseason decisions will heavily impact Humphrey’s future. If they manage to extend him, they will solidify their secondary for years to come. However, if he does test the market, the Ravens will face a difficult challenge in replacing one of their most impactful players.

The Ravens have undeniably won the AFC North offseason with their aggressive moves in free agency, the draft, and coaching changes. Marlon Humphrey’s future in Baltimore is a storyline that fans will follow closely. Whether he stays or pursues free agency, his legacy as one of the top cornerbacks in the league is secure. The Ravens’ decisions in the coming months will determine not just their immediate future, but their long-term success as a perennial AFC contender.

As the 2024-2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on the Ravens’ ability to maintain their dominance, both in the AFC North and on the national stage. And Marlon Humphrey’s role, whether he stays in Baltimore or moves on, will undoubtedly be a key factor in the Ravens’ quest for another Super Bowl.