NFL analyst praises the Ravens’ best free agency move, highlighting a key acquisition that strengthens their roster for success.

The Baltimore Ravens have long been known for their competitive spirit, strong defensive play, and innovative offensive strategies. As one of the more storied franchises in the NFL, the Ravens have consistently been contenders in the AFC, with their most recent years showing that they are gearing up for a Super Bowl run. In the NFL, the offseason is often just as critical as the regular season. Teams are looking to make the right moves to strengthen their roster and address key weaknesses. One franchise that’s been especially busy this offseason is the Baltimore Ravens, who have made several key acquisitions, including some moves in free agency that have piqued the interest of many.

However, it’s one particular acquisition that has caught the attention of NFL analysts, who believe that the move could make the Ravens a real contender in the 2025 season. In this article, we’ll dive into the move that an NFL analyst has singled out as the best free agency signing for the Ravens, analyzing its impact on the team’s overall success and how it fits into their long-term goals.

The Context: Ravens’ Free Agency and the Importance of Key Acquisitions

Heading into the offseason, the Ravens had several areas they needed to address in order to be a true Super Bowl contender. Despite a solid season in 2024, their offensive line, wide receiver corps, and defensive depth were all areas in need of improvement. The addition of new faces was necessary to provide Lamar Jackson with more protection and better weapons to complement his talents. On the other side of the ball, the Ravens wanted to reinforce their defense to stay competitive in an AFC that boasts high-powered offenses.

One of the biggest moves the Ravens had to make in 2025 was ensuring that they surrounded Lamar Jackson with the right offensive weapons. Despite Jackson’s brilliance, many believed that a lack of elite wide receiver talent had hindered the Ravens’ ability to break through and contend for a Super Bowl. The team needed an elite playmaker, someone who could create separation, stretch the field, and make spectacular catches in clutch moments.

Additionally, the Ravens had to keep building on their already formidable defense, which is often the hallmark of this franchise. The team needed depth and leadership in the secondary, as well as bolstering their pass rush.

The Move in Question: Adding a Veteran Wide Receiver

The best free agency move that has generated the most buzz and praise from NFL analysts was the acquisition of veteran wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins. The former Arizona Cardinals star, widely regarded as one of the best wide receivers of his generation, was a coveted free agent, and the Ravens were able to bring him into the fold for the 2025 season. Hopkins, a three-time First-Team All-Pro and two-time NFL receiving yards leader, had spent several productive years in Arizona, but with the Cardinals entering a rebuilding phase, the writing was on the wall that Hopkins might seek a fresh start.

For the Ravens, signing Hopkins was a critical move to shore up their passing attack. While Rashod Bateman, the team’s young wide receiver, had shown potential, the Ravens still lacked that top-tier, elite playmaker on the outside who could elevate the offense and provide Lamar Jackson with a dependable deep threat. With Mark Andrews established as the team’s top target at tight end, having a proven wide receiver like Hopkins now gives Jackson a true weapon to complement the playmaking abilities of the tight end.

NFL Analyst’s Praise for the Move

Mike Tanier, a respected NFL analyst, took to social media and various platforms to praise the Ravens for their decision to land Hopkins. Tanier highlighted the strategic importance of the move, emphasizing that the signing of Hopkins was a “game-changer” for the team’s offense.

“Lamar Jackson finally gets the help he deserves,” Tanier wrote. “DeAndre Hopkins is a top-five wide receiver in the league, and what makes this acquisition so significant is that it instantly transforms the Ravens’ offense. You now have a legitimate No. 1 receiver, something they have sorely lacked. And when you combine Hopkins’ ability with Jackson’s athleticism, you have a deadly combination that defenses will have to account for.”

Tanier’s analysis brings up several key points about the dynamics of the move. First and foremost, it’s the immediate impact on the passing game. Hopkins brings experience, a sure hand, and elite separation skills that will open up opportunities for Jackson to make plays down the field. Furthermore, it’s clear that Hopkins’ presence will allow other players, like Bateman and Devin Duvernay, to thrive in more favorable matchups. Defenders will now have to choose between double-teaming Hopkins or leaving other options open for Jackson, which could put the Ravens’ offense in an enviable position.

The Complementary Impact on the Ravens’ Offensive Line

One underrated aspect of the DeAndre Hopkins signing is the complementary effect it will have on the Ravens’ offensive line. As we’ve discussed, the offensive line has been one of the most important units for the Ravens in recent years, especially given Jackson’s unique skill set. A mobile quarterback, Jackson benefits from a line that can provide a clean pocket but also give him time to move around and extend plays when necessary.

With the addition of a top-tier receiver like Hopkins, the pressure on the offensive line to hold up against opposing defenses may be slightly alleviated. With Hopkins on the field, opposing defenses will likely play a deeper coverage, keeping safeties and cornerbacks back to prevent big plays downfield. This can open up more room for Jackson to maneuver and use his legs to extend plays or take advantage of running lanes.

Moreover, Jackson’s ability to move the pocket or run the football adds a unique wrinkle to the equation, forcing defenses to play more conservatively. A defensive backfield focused on covering Hopkins means the defensive line may be less focused on applying pressure on Jackson.

What Does Hopkins Bring to the Table?

At 31 years old, Hopkins is entering the later stages of his career, but there’s no doubting his impact. With over 11,000 career receiving yards, he has proven that he can still be a dominant force. His experience is invaluable, especially on a team like the Ravens that’s looking to make a deep playoff run.

Hopkins has shown that he’s not only a reliable target but one who can consistently come through in clutch moments. Whether it’s a jump ball in the end zone or a critical third-down reception, Hopkins has the ability to make key plays when it matters most. His route-running is crisp, and his hands are exceptional, allowing him to make catches in tight coverage. He also has a knack for tracking the football and making spectacular catches, something that has endeared him to fans and teammates alike over the years.

For the Ravens, Hopkins could be the missing piece they need to put together a truly high-powered offense. If Jackson stays healthy and continues his development as a passer, Hopkins’ presence could elevate the team’s offensive game to new heights. This signing gives the Ravens a multi-dimensional offense that can threaten both through the air and on the ground.

A Long-Term Investment

While the immediate impact of the Hopkins signing will be closely scrutinized, there’s also the long-term aspect to consider. The Ravens have already committed to Lamar Jackson as their franchise quarterback, and pairing him with a player like Hopkins shows that the team is invested in giving him the tools necessary to succeed.

This move not only benefits the Ravens in 2025 but also sets them up for continued success down the line. Having a seasoned, elite wide receiver like Hopkins can help mold the future of the team’s offense, especially as they continue to build around Jackson and other key players. Additionally, the Ravens have been known for their strong organizational stability, and signing a player like Hopkins who has proven leadership and championship pedigree adds to that legacy.