Ranking the Baltimore Ravens’ Most Important Offseason Choices for 2025
Ranking the Baltimore Ravens’ Most Important Offseason Choices for 2025
The Baltimore Ravens are coming off an important season, one that saw them advance to the playoffs, despite several challenges, including key injuries and roster turnover. As the 2025 NFL season approaches, the Ravens’ front office faces crucial decisions that could either elevate the team back to championship contention or delay their efforts to return to the Super Bowl. From securing key players to addressing significant gaps on the roster, Baltimore’s front office has several important offseason choices ahead. This analysis will rank the most significant decisions the Ravens must make during the 2025 offseason.
1. Lamar Jackson’s Contract Extension: The Cornerstone of the Franchise
Without a doubt, the most significant offseason choice for the Baltimore Ravens is securing the long-term future of quarterback Lamar Jackson. The former MVP has proven to be one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the NFL, and his ability to lead the offense with both his arm and his legs has made the Ravens one of the most dangerous teams in the league when healthy. Jackson’s dual-threat capability is unmatched, and the Ravens’ offense revolves around his unique skill set.
As of 2025, Jackson’s contract situation is still unresolved. He is coming off a season in which his production was slightly hampered by injuries, but his overall ability and leadership were still central to the Ravens’ success. The fact remains that Jackson is not just the face of the franchise; he is its future. The Ravens need to offer him a contract extension that reflects his importance to the team, while also ensuring that the contract structure is manageable within the constraints of the salary cap.
The issue with Jackson’s contract negotiations has been his desire to have control over his financial future, and the Ravens’ front office must determine how much they are willing to commit to their quarterback. In 2025, Jackson’s extension will likely be one of the most scrutinized deals in the NFL, and how Baltimore handles this decision will have a ripple effect throughout the rest of the roster. Keeping Jackson in Baltimore for the long haul is a priority, as he is the foundation of the offense and the team’s best chance at winning a Super Bowl in the near future.
2. Addressing the Offensive Line: Protection for Lamar Jackson
While Lamar Jackson’s status is paramount, the offensive line is the next major concern for the Ravens. Despite their strong running game and formidable offensive line play in recent seasons, the Ravens still need to make sure that the line can protect Jackson adequately, especially as he continues to evolve as a passer. One key figure in this equation is left tackle Ronnie Stanley. Stanley, when healthy, is one of the league’s best at his position, but his injury history has been a point of concern. If Stanley is unable to stay healthy or if the Ravens feel his performance is not up to the standard of his contract, Baltimore may need to look for an upgrade.
The Ravens will need to focus on both depth and talent along the offensive line. In particular, they will likely look to draft or sign a reliable tackle or guard who can step in and offer immediate help. The Ravens have made several moves in the past to reinforce their offensive line, but the 2025 offseason will require a more concerted effort to provide Jackson with the protection he needs to operate in the passing game. If the Ravens want to take the next step in their offensive evolution, solidifying their offensive line is a top priority.
3. Wide Receiver Upgrade: Creating Better Weapons for Lamar Jackson
For years, the Ravens have been criticized for their lack of dynamic wide receivers. While they have made improvements in recent seasons, the team’s receiver corps still does not compare to that of some of the top contenders in the AFC. For Lamar Jackson to succeed and continue to elevate his game as a passer, he needs more reliable weapons outside of tight end Mark Andrews. The Ravens need to either draft or sign a high-quality wide receiver who can stretch the field and make plays on the outside.
This offseason, the Ravens have several options in front of them. They could pursue a proven veteran receiver in free agency, or they could look to the draft for an emerging talent. Either way, upgrading the receiver position is critical. Wide receivers who can separate, make contested catches, and provide Jackson with a legitimate deep-threat option will elevate the Ravens’ passing attack. A dynamic receiving option would also take pressure off the running backs and give Baltimore the offensive balance it has lacked in recent seasons.
In the current AFC, where teams like the Kansas City Chiefs and Buffalo Bills have explosive offenses, it’s crucial for the Ravens to catch up by investing in high-end weapons. While the Ravens’ system under offensive coordinator Greg Roman has traditionally relied on the run game, they will need to adjust if they want to compete at the highest level, particularly with teams that can score quickly and often.
4. Secondary Depth and Upgrades: Strengthening the Defense
While the Ravens have historically been known for their defense, their secondary is a key area that needs attention moving into 2025. Baltimore has a solid group of defensive backs, but as the league continues to evolve toward pass-heavy offenses, the need for elite coverage players is even more pronounced. The Ravens are expected to address the cornerback position, as their current roster has been inconsistent at times.
Brandon Stephens, a versatile defensive back, is set to be a free agent, and it remains to be seen whether the Ravens will re-sign him. However, the team should be looking to add more depth at cornerback, as well as a starting-caliber player who can lock down the opposing team’s best wide receiver. The Ravens could also look to the draft to find a young, talented corner to pair with Marlon Humphrey in the long term. Baltimore may also look to free agency for a player with experience who can step in immediately and make an impact.
In addition to cornerbacks, the Ravens could look at their safety position, particularly with veteran players who may be approaching the end of their careers. If there is any uncertainty around the future of current starters like Marcus Williams, the team may need to look for upgrades to maintain a top-tier secondary.
With the rise of high-powered passing offenses in the NFL, having a strong secondary has become paramount. If the Ravens can solidify their coverage unit, they will be in a much better position to compete against teams like the Chiefs, Bills, and Bengals.
5. Edge Rushers: Keeping the Pressure on the Quarterback
Another key component of the Ravens’ defensive success is their ability to rush the passer. Edge rushers like Odafe Oweh have shown promise, but the team may still need more consistency in this area. While Oweh has the raw talent to become a top pass rusher, he has yet to show that he can dominate on a week-to-week basis. The Ravens could look to add another edge rusher to complement Oweh and create a more consistent pass rush.
The Ravens may target an experienced veteran in free agency, or they may look to the draft for an impact player. Regardless of the approach, finding a second pass rusher to pair with Oweh would greatly enhance the defense. Given the importance of pressuring the quarterback in today’s NFL, a dynamic edge rusher would take this defense to another level.
6. Inside Linebacker Depth: Preparing for the Future
The Ravens have one of the best linebackers in the league in Roquan Smith, but depth behind him is a concern. Baltimore’s linebacker corps is thin, and the team needs to plan for the future. Whether it’s a veteran player or a promising rookie, the Ravens should look to bolster their linebacker unit to ensure they have enough depth and talent in this key area.
Inside linebackers play a critical role in both defending the run and covering tight ends or running backs in the passing game. Adding a linebacker who can contribute in both aspects of the game will further strengthen the defense.
7. Kicker and Special Teams: Ensuring Stability
Lastly, the Ravens must also make decisions regarding their special teams and kicker. While Justin Tucker is one of the most reliable kickers in the history of the NFL, his longevity and contract situation will need to be managed. Baltimore should also focus on bolstering its special teams units to ensure consistency in punting, kick coverage, and returning. Though special teams may not receive as much attention as other positions, a strong special teams unit can be the difference between a win and a loss, especially in close games.
