The two-day negotiation period before the league year started on March 15, 2023 expired without any moves by the Baltimore Ravens. The team lost free agent guard Ben Powers to the Denver Broncos and tight end Josh Oliver to the Minnesota Vikings. The Ravens also released veteran defensive tackle Calais Campbell.
The big news regarding the non-exclusive franchise tag being placed on quarterback Lamar Jackson has overshadowed the lack of action from Baltimore in free agency. Jackson revealing that he received a guaranteed three-year contract offer worth $133 million pushed free agent news further down the line, but the fact remains, Baltimore hasn’t done much to improve their roster a week into the free agent period.
Here are three free agents the Ravens should target as the free agency period continues:
Wide Receiver Marvin Jones
Jones spent last season with the Jacksonville Jaguars. He started 10 games, played in 16 and finished with 46 receptions for 529 yards and three touchdowns. At 32 years old, Jones is still able to stretch the field and provide a veteran presence on the outside. Signing Jones to a low-cost deal fits with the Ravens limited cap space. Jones would provide leadership for a young receiver group that is looking to prove themselves.
Left Guard Rodger Saffold
Ravens coach John Harbaugh has always been a proponent of physical players. Saffold is a people mover that is especially solid in run blocking but adequate in pass protection as well. Saffold fills the void at left guard created by Powers moving on in free agency. At 32 years old, Saffold is a veteran with playoff experience that would give the Ravens a starter for 2023 at a relatively modest cost.
Outside Linebacker Bud Dupree
The Titans released Dupree in a cost-cutting move last week. It became official at the start of the league year. Dupree’s rugged style of play fits perfectly with the Ravens defense. Adding a player that brings a pass rush presence and aggressively sets the edge against the run is ideal for Baltimore. Dupree started 11 games last season and had four sacks. The Ravens could cash in if Dupree can steer clear of injury which he hasn’t done over the last two seasons.
