The Baltimore Ravens once sat atop the entire league and looked like the team that would rule the AFC North for years to come. Lamar Jackson has been a revelation for the franchise but they have not yet capitalized on it, as they haven't made an appearance in the AFC Championship Game with Jackson.
The division was a crowded race last year only because the teams were all around the same level. The Cincinnati Bengals established themselves as the clear winner late in the season but only won the division title by a few games. Next season could be a similar story.
While the Bengals established themselves as a team to be taken seriously and add offensive line help, the Cleveland Browns made a huge upgrade at quarterback with Deshaun Watson. A suspension could come down if Watson is found to be in violation of the league's personal conduct policy following his sexual misconduct allegations. When he does play, though, he will elevate the offense tremendously. Even the Steelers could be a problem with T.J. Watt at their disposal.
The Ravens signed Marcus Williams and Michael Pierce to bolster their defense but still need more, especially on offense around Jackson. There are still a ton of very good free agents left. With Jackson's contract extension still to be completed, they have to prove that they are a place where he can legitimately compete.
2 moves the Ravens still must make to complete their roster in 2022
Sign Julio Jones
The Ravens' need for a wide receiver still lingers. With one of the best wideouts in recent memory available, Baltimore should make a strong push to sign him. Even though he heads into next season as a 33-year-old, he could be a very good addition for this upcoming season.
Jones had a tough season with the Tennesee Titans but is still a magnificent receiver. His size always makes him a mismatch and his hands are as reliable as they come. In 10 games last season, he tallied 434 receiving yards, 31 catches and a touchdown.
Mark Andrews has emerged as a legitimate lead pass-catcher with 1,300 receiving yards last year and Marquise Brown, flaws notwithstanding, still recorded over 1,000 receiving yards. Jones would not have to carry a huge workload if he signs with Baltimore. Stepping in as a strong option for passes in between a decent deep threat and a solid short-range option is where he would shine and maintain his ability to contribute as he ages.
Sign Bobby Wagner
The Ravens defense could use more help on defense. They have already met with the eight-time Pro Bowler after his departure from the Seattle Seahawks. The Los Angeles Rams have met with him, too, so closing the deal may be tough. The defending champions have a very strong team to plug Wagner into. Baltimore will have to bring its best pitch to sign the star linebacker.
Wagner would make for a great addition alongside Patrick Queen on their interior defense. The Ravens defense gaining a leader that steered a team to a Super Bowl would be huge. The 31-year-old Wagner racked up 170 total tackles last season.
The Ravens defense suffered mightily last season, though much of their woes came from injuries. Running back the same cast won't help them keep pace with a mightily improved AFC, especially the two new powers in their division. Build the defense back to one of the league's better units should start with the man in the middle.
Follow Us
Subscribe