The Baltimore Ravens are facing a significant offseason roster transformation following a disappointing 8-9 season that resulted in the team missing the playoffs for the first time since 2021. As players cleaned out their lockers, many expressed uncertainty about their future with the franchise, highlighting the potential for change in the coming months.
For several players, this marked the end of what they hoped would be a championship-contending season. All-Pro center Tyler Linderbaum, a key figure for the Ravens, expressed a strong desire to return, stating he “absolutely” wants to remain with the team. As Linderbaum enters the offseason without a contract extension, he acknowledged the need to take time off before addressing his future. His performance over the past four years has established him as one of the top centers in the NFL, making his potential departure a point of concern for teammates.
Right tackle Roger Rosengarten voiced his commitment to persuading Linderbaum to stay, emphasizing the pivotal role he plays within the offensive line. “To see a guy like that walk would really hurt,” Rosengarten remarked. Such sentiments reflect a broader anxiety within the team regarding potential roster changes.
Despite the looming uncertainty, many players expressed a desire to remain with the Ravens. Fullback Patrick Ricard, who joined the team as an undrafted rookie in 2017, stated he would love to retire as a Raven. Similarly, pass rusher Dre’Mont Jones, who joined the team before the trade deadline, indicated his enthusiasm for continuing in Baltimore, contingent on a favorable financial arrangement.
Veteran pass rusher Kyle Van Noy was straightforward about his intentions, stating, “I hope to come back to the Ravens.” At 34 years old, Van Noy has completed three seasons with the team and is not contemplating retirement, despite a significant drop in his sack total this past season.
As players reflected on the season during the locker clean-out, a common theme of disappointment emerged. Ricard conveyed his empathy for the fans, emphasizing the frustration that has built over the years. “I feel like the fans deserve better, and it’s just hard,” he said.
General manager Eric DeCosta now faces the challenge of rebuilding a roster that can compete for a Super Bowl. A critical aspect of this process involves addressing the contract situation of quarterback Lamar Jackson. Jackson’s cap hit is projected to rise to $74.5 million over the next two seasons, complicating the team’s ability to construct a competitive squad.
While Jackson spoke publicly on Sunday night, he was unavailable for comments during the locker clean-out, leaving many players to ponder their futures without clarity. Tight end Charlie Kolar estimated that about 30% of the roster could change this offseason, a figure that aligns with the team’s historical turnover rate. Kolar, whose rookie contract recently concluded, expressed his desire to return to Baltimore, noting he would take time to recuperate and begin training.
The situation is equally uncertain for fellow tight end Isaiah Likely, who did not secure a mid-season extension. Likely shared his mixed feelings about entering free agency, remarking, “It’s honestly my first time ever not knowing [where I’ll be].”
The discussions surrounding player futures began earlier than many anticipated, reflecting the reality of the Ravens’ disappointing season. As the organization prepares for potential changes, the focus will be on assembling a roster capable of returning to playoff contention.
This offseason promises to be a critical juncture for the Ravens, as they navigate the complexities of contracts and player retention while aiming to restore the team’s competitive edge.
