Key Ravens free agents expected to return in 2025 include standout players crucial to both offense and defense, strengthening continuity.
As the Baltimore Ravens look to the future, the team faces a critical offseason where several key players are set to become free agents. These individuals have played vital roles in the Ravens’ success, and their potential return is essential to the team’s aspirations for the 2025 season and beyond. With salary cap constraints, internal team decisions, and the pursuit of continued success, the Ravens must navigate this challenging situation while maintaining continuity and building a roster that can compete at the highest level.
In this article, we will take a deep dive into some of the most crucial free agents the Ravens should focus on retaining in 2025. These players are key components of the Ravens’ offense and defense, and their return could significantly impact the team’s chances of securing another championship run. As the Ravens work to maintain a competitive roster, the decisions regarding these free agents will shape the team’s future.
1. Lamar Jackson (Quarterback)
Without a doubt, the most high-profile free agent the Ravens must retain in 2025 is quarterback Lamar Jackson. Jackson is not only the face of the franchise but also one of the most electrifying and dynamic quarterbacks in the NFL. His unique skill set, including his ability to extend plays with his legs, make accurate throws on the run, and keep defenses guessing, has made him one of the league’s top quarterbacks.
The Ravens’ offense revolves around Jackson’s abilities, and it’s clear that they are a far more dangerous team when he’s under center. Jackson’s continued development as a passer, paired with his game-changing mobility, makes him an invaluable asset for the team. His leadership and ability to deliver in crucial moments have also been key to the Ravens’ successes in the past.
Jackson’s free agency has been a topic of conversation for some time, with speculation surrounding his contract negotiations. The Ravens will likely need to offer him a long-term deal to keep him in Baltimore for the foreseeable future. His importance to the team cannot be overstated, and losing him to another team would be a significant setback for the Ravens.
The key to retaining Jackson will likely lie in offering him a contract that reflects his status as one of the league’s top quarterbacks, while also navigating the Ravens’ salary cap space. Jackson’s return would not only keep the team competitive but also solidify their future under center for years to come.
2. Roquan Smith (Linebacker)
On the defensive side of the ball, linebacker Roquan Smith stands out as one of the Ravens’ most important players. Since being acquired in a midseason trade from the Chicago Bears, Smith has quickly become the leader of the Ravens’ defense. His presence in the middle of the field has allowed the Ravens to play with a more aggressive, high-energy style that has proven to be highly effective.
Smith is one of the best inside linebackers in the NFL, known for his sideline-to-sideline range, exceptional tackling ability, and leadership qualities. He has a knack for making big plays, whether it’s forcing turnovers, disrupting passing lanes, or stuffing runs at the line of scrimmage. His ability to read offenses and make adjustments on the fly is a key reason why the Ravens’ defense has been so successful.
Given Smith’s importance to the Ravens’ defense, retaining him should be a top priority. His ability to control the middle of the field and be a playmaker is invaluable, and he has formed an excellent tandem with other Ravens defenders like Patrick Queen. Keeping Smith on the roster would not only bolster the Ravens’ defense but also provide the team with a consistent and reliable leader for years to come.
3. Mark Andrews (Tight End)
While Jackson is the engine that drives the Ravens’ offense, tight end Mark Andrews is arguably the most important target in the passing game. Andrews has been a favorite of Jackson’s since they first connected on the field, and he has established himself as one of the top tight ends in the NFL. His ability to make difficult catches, create mismatches with defenders, and operate as a reliable safety valve for Jackson makes him a key piece of the Ravens’ offense.
Andrews has been a consistent producer for the Ravens, earning multiple Pro Bowl selections and becoming one of the most trusted playmakers on the roster. His ability to make plays in the red zone, as well as his ability to stretch the field with his size and athleticism, makes him a key component of the Ravens’ passing attack.
In an offense that often relies on a strong tight end presence, losing Andrews would be a significant blow. As a proven playmaker and one of Jackson’s top targets, Andrews’ return would give the Ravens’ offense stability and one of the top receiving threats in the league. The Ravens will likely prioritize re-signing Andrews to ensure that he remains a key part of their offensive success in 2025 and beyond.
4. Michael Pierce (Defensive Tackle)
The Ravens’ defense has long been built on a strong defensive line, and one of the players who has helped anchor that unit in recent years is defensive tackle Michael Pierce. Pierce is a powerful force in the middle of the defensive line, known for his ability to clog running lanes and create pressure up the middle. His physicality and toughness are critical to the Ravens’ run defense, and he has consistently been one of the team’s best defenders against the ground game.
Pierce’s ability to hold the line of scrimmage and free up other defenders to make plays has been a key factor in the Ravens’ success on defense. His presence allows linebackers like Smith and Queen to operate freely and make tackles behind the line of scrimmage. Keeping Pierce in the fold would ensure that the Ravens continue to dominate up front and maintain their reputation as one of the league’s best defenses.
Given Pierce’s age and value to the Ravens, he could be a priority free agent to re-sign in 2025. The Ravens’ defensive front would be considerably weaker without him, and keeping him would be a significant boost to the team’s ability to stop the run and apply pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
5. J.K. Dobbins (Running Back)
Running back J.K. Dobbins has been a key part of the Ravens’ ground-and-pound attack since being drafted in 2020. Dobbins brings a rare combination of speed, vision, and power that makes him a dangerous weapon in the backfield. While the Ravens’ offense is known for its heavy reliance on Lamar Jackson’s legs, Dobbins provides a necessary complement as a reliable ball-carrier.
When healthy, Dobbins has been an explosive playmaker for the Ravens, capable of breaking off long runs and contributing in both the running and passing game. His ability to stretch the field and pick up tough yards in critical situations has made him a crucial piece of the offense. The Ravens’ rushing attack thrives when Dobbins is on the field, and his versatility as both a runner and a pass-catcher adds an extra dynamic to the offense.
Given Dobbins’ potential and ability to make plays, the Ravens should prioritize his return in 2025. Keeping him would not only solidify the backfield but also give the Ravens one of the league’s top dual-threat running backs. His return could help make the Ravens’ offense more dynamic and dangerous as they look to continue their championship aspirations.
6. Devin Duvernay (Wide Receiver)
While the Ravens have been known for their strong running game, the wide receiver corps has always been a work in progress. Devin Duvernay has provided a reliable target for Lamar Jackson, especially in the slot. Duvernay’s speed, agility, and ability to make plays after the catch have made him a valuable contributor to the Ravens’ passing attack.
Duvernay’s ability to operate in space and make defenders miss has opened up opportunities for other wide receivers and tight ends in the offense. He’s also shown an ability to make plays on special teams, providing a spark in the return game. Keeping Duvernay in the fold would help solidify the Ravens’ receiving corps and give Jackson another reliable weapon to work with.
Conclusion
As the Ravens look ahead to the 2025 season, retaining these key free agents will be critical to maintaining team continuity and securing long-term success. From Lamar Jackson’s quarterback play to Roquan Smith’s leadership on defense, each of these players plays a pivotal role in the Ravens’ performance. By securing their futures in Baltimore, the Ravens can continue to build on their solid foundation and make a push for championships in the coming years.
Navigating the challenges of free agency is never easy, especially for a team like the Ravens, who have established themselves as a contender in the AFC. However, with careful decisions, the Ravens can keep their core intact and continue their pursuit of another Super Bowl championship.
