The Baltimore Ravens have seen homegrown talent such as Kelechi Osemele, Pernell McPhee, Arthur Jones and Torrey Smith all leave town via free agency in consecutive seasons. Now, they're trying to put a stop to the trend and add a few free agents of their own.
Baltimore rustled up $10 million in salary cap space by restructuring guard Marshal Yanda and quarterback Joe Flacco's deals over the last two weeks, giving them enough money to look around on the open market. Specifically, it looks as if the Ravens want to bring in some pass-catchers.
Ravens clearing cap space... told they'd like to add a tight end. And looking seriously at Mike Wallace too. If the price is right.
— Aditi Kinkhabwala (@AKinkhabwala) March 9, 2016
Mike Wallace was cut by the Minnesota Vikings after just one season. While Wallace disappointed in Minnesota - 39 catches, 473 yards, 2 touchdowns - he still has enough speed to take the top off a defense and serve as a downfield target for Flacco. He's not an ideal option, but Baltimore needs to add an explosive element to their passing game. The Ravens finished the 2015 season ranked dead last in average yards per catch (10.4) and No. 23 in receiving touchdowns (21). While part of that was due to injuries to Steve Smith Sr. and Flacco, it wouldn't hurt if Baltimore added another player to the mix.
As far as tight ends go, Baltimore has already reached an agreement with free agent Ben Watson on a two year deal. Watson is coming off a career year with the New Orleans Saints in which he caught 74 passes for 825 yards and six touchdowns. However, Nick Boyle will be serving a 10-game suspension this year and Crockett Gilmore is coming off of surgery. That leaves just Watson and second-year tight end Maxx Williams at the position.
Free agents will officially be able to sign contracts at 4 pm ET.
