The Baltimore Ravens survived the uber-competitive AFC North and won a playoff game this past season. But they aren't satisfied with just making it to the show. They want to get back to the Super Bowl. As a result, they'll join the rest of the NFL in looking for upgrades this offseason. When it comes to free agency, there appear to be a few particular names to keep in mind.
"You have to start by monitoring the players who get cut," ESPN Ravens reporter Jamison Hensley wrote. "In recent years, the Ravens have rarely signed unrestricted free agents because they count against compensatory picks. When looking at their biggest needs, keep an eye on the potential releases of Tampa Bay wide receiver Vincent Jackson, San Francisco tight end Vernon Davis, New York Jets running back Chris Johnson, Carolina running back DeAngelo Williams, Oakland safety Tyvon Branch and Eagles cornerback Cary Williams."
Baltimore is known as one of the more shrewd organizations out there. The team has made smart veteran signings recently that have panned out even better than expected.
"The Ravens won't be big-time spenders," Hensley added. "They simply don't have the cap room to do so. But the Ravens have found great value in each of the past two offseasons with pass-rusher Elvis Dumervil (2013) and wide receiver Steve Smith (2014), both of whom were cap cuts."
Jackson managed to catch 70 passes for more than 1,000 yards despite some shoddy quarterback play in Tampa Bay. While some would consider his age, 32, a bad sign, Smith is 35 and still productive. Davis produced his lowest numbers since his rookie year. His lack of production was especially confounding considering quarterback Colin Kaepernick set a career high in pass attempts. Johnson finished with a solid 4.3 yards per carry average in a complimentary role in New York's backfield.
The Ravens may release cornerback Lardarius Webb due to his salary cap hit of $12 million in 2015. Such a move would free up some necessary cap space to go bargain hunting for players who can outperform their free agent dollar value.
