Baltimore Ravens: Key Offseason Contracts and Rookie Prospects Analysis
ICARO Media Group
**Ravens' Remaining Offseason Decisions and Prospects to Watch**
In the final stages of the offseason, the Baltimore Ravens are making critical decisions about the future of key players and assessing the potential of their newest talents. According to reports, while some veteran additions to the roster are expected, the primary focus is on contract negotiations involving several of the team’s stars.
Among the top priorities for the Ravens is deciding whether to extend contracts for running back Derrick Henry and tight end Mark Andrews, both entering the final year of their deals. Additionally, the team has picked up the fifth-year option for All-Pro safety Kyle Hamilton but declined the option for Pro Bowl center Tyler Linderbaum. Quarterback Lamar Jackson's contract is also under scrutiny, as his cap number will increase to $74.5 million next year. Ravens' management is keen on securing an extension with Jackson before the season commences.
General Manager Eric DeCosta has confirmed the team's interest in extending Henry's contract, acknowledging that they have several active negotiations. DeCosta also expressed the team's intention to secure long-term deals for Hamilton and Linderbaum. Head Coach John Harbaugh emphasized the necessity of finalizing a new deal for Jackson, predicting he will become the highest-paid player in football.
The Ravens are also keeping a close watch on undrafted rookie Jay Higgins, a linebacker from Iowa. Historically, the Ravens have a track record of aiding undrafted free agents to succeed, such as current Defensive Coordinator Zach Orr and Bart Scott. Pro Football Focus' Ben Cooper has identified Higgins as a potential standout, citing his strong performance metrics and coverage skills. Despite Higgins’ lower draft position due to size and speed concerns, he fully embraces the opportunity with the Ravens.
Another rookie making waves is sixth-round defensive tackle Aeneas Peebles from Virginia Tech. Despite being considered undersized at 6-foot, 289 pounds, Peebles is determined to prove that size does not impede performance on the field. He expressed confidence in his abilities and the Ravens’ developmental culture, which has a history of turning lower-round picks and undrafted players into key contributors.
With notable opportunities opening due to roster changes, both Higgins and Peebles aim to follow in the footsteps of impactful yet initially overlooked players in the Ravens' lineup. Their acceptance and optimism reflect the Ravens’ strategic approach to building a robust and competitive team for the upcoming season.