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Ravens' three biggest needs following free agency
Baltimore Ravens HC John Harbaugh Jeremy Reper-USA TODAY Sports

Ravens' three biggest needs following free agency

There are still a few big-name players on the open market, but with the bulk of free agency over, teams must turn their attentions to the 2024 NFL Draft to fill out their rosters.

The Ravens were able to retain defensive tackle Justin Madubuike and land running back Derrick Henry this offseason, but lost several of their top free agents including linebacker Patrick Queen (Steelers), edge-rusher Jadeveon Clowney (Panthers) and safety Geno Stone (Bengals).

Here are Baltimore's three biggest needs following free agency.

Offensive line

The Ravens lost both of their starting guards, John Simpson (Jets) and Kevin Zeitler (Lions), in free agency. They also traded right tackle Morgan Moses to the Jets.

As a result, Baltimore will have three new starters on its offensive line in 2024. Who they will be is up for debate, but it's unlikely that all of the team's answers are currently on the roster.

Luckily, this year's draft is rich with offensive line talent. So, the Ravens will be able to address guard, offensive tackle or both at the end of April.

Edge-rusher

The Ravens also lost two of their top three sack leaders in 2023. Clowney, who logged the second-most sacks (9.5) on the team, decided to join the Panthers while Kyle Van Noy, who had the third-most sacks (9), is still a free agent.

Baltimore could still bring back Van Noy if the price is right, but that would likely be on another one-year deal. That's why the team should invest a Day 1 or Day 2 pick on the position.

The Ravens have already invested a 2021 first-round pick on Odafe Oweh and a 2022 second-round pick on David Ojabo. However, both players combined for just six sacks last season.

Cornerback

Baltimore watched several players in its secondary suffer injuries during the 2023 season. The team was already thin at the position, but that put it even further under the microscope.

Three-time Pro Bowl cornerback Marlon Humphrey should still be a solid piece for years to come, but there isn't much depth past him.

While the Ravens lost several key players at other positions, there is a strong argument that cornerback is their biggest need. A player like Alabama's Kool-Aid McKinstry could be the pick at No. 30 overall.

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