Offseason preview for the Ravens in 2025: Where does Baltimore stand at running back?

The Baltimore Ravens have long been defined by their physical, run-heavy offensive identity. The team’s offensive system has traditionally leaned heavily on the running game, with a robust stable of running backs complementing a quarterback like Lamar Jackson, whose dynamic ability as a runner adds a unique dimension to the attack. As the 2025 NFL offseason approaches, one of the most pressing questions surrounding the Ravens’ roster is where the team stands at the running back position.

With a changing landscape in the NFL, a rapidly evolving backfield, and the team’s evolving offensive philosophy, the Ravens face a critical decision-making process. Their running back situation heading into 2025 represents a mixture of potential, questions about future investments, and the changing dynamics of how running backs are used in the league.

This offseason preview will dive deep into where the Ravens currently stand at running back, analyzing the roster, the state of the position, and what decisions the team could make going forward. We’ll look at the current state of the roster, the key players in the backfield, potential draft and free agency targets, and how the position fits into Baltimore’s broader offensive plans moving forward.

The Current State of the Running Back Position

As of the 2025 offseason, the Ravens’ running back room has undergone significant changes. After years of relying on a workhorse back to carry the load, Baltimore has shifted to a more committee-based approach in the backfield, especially with Lamar Jackson’s continued presence as a dual-threat quarterback.

1. J.K. Dobbins: The Feature Back

Since the Ravens selected J.K. Dobbins in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft, he has been viewed as the future of the franchise’s backfield. Dobbins, a former standout at Ohio State, was a key part of the Ravens’ 2020 run-heavy offense before an ACL injury sidelined him for much of the 2021 season. He returned in 2022 and continued to show flashes of his potential, displaying impressive vision, burst, and contact balance.

In 2023 and 2024, Dobbins became more of a focal point in the Ravens’ rushing attack. He was given a larger share of the carries, becoming the primary ball carrier for the team. However, questions about Dobbins’ long-term health and his consistency have lingered. While he has shown that he can be a dynamic rusher when healthy, there have also been stretches where he has struggled to find rhythm, especially when dealing with injuries. By 2025, Dobbins is expected to be entering a critical period in his career, where he must prove he can be the consistent, feature back the Ravens need.

2. Gus Edwards: The Reliable Backup

Gus Edwards, a power back who has been with the Ravens since 2018, has long been the team’s reliable backup running back. Edwards is known for his tough, north-south running style and ability to grind out tough yards between the tackles. His running style complements Dobbins’ agility and vision, making the two a potent one-two punch. Edwards has been highly effective in short-yardage situations and in games where the Ravens need to churn out tough, physical yards.

Though Edwards isn’t a star, he is an ideal complementary back, and his consistency has made him a fixture in the Ravens’ backfield. However, Edwards is now entering the latter stages of his career, and his contract is set to expire following the 2025 season. The Ravens must assess whether they want to bring Edwards back on a new deal or look for a younger, fresher option to pair with Dobbins.

3. Justice Hill: A Versatile Depth Piece

Justice Hill, a former fourth-round pick, has also been a key rotational piece in the Ravens’ backfield. Hill is known for his speed and ability to contribute both in the running game and as a receiving threat out of the backfield. Though he hasn’t had as many carries as Dobbins or Edwards, Hill’s role as a change-of-pace back has been important in certain game situations.

In 2025, Hill’s role remains uncertain. He has flashed at times as an explosive option, but his overall impact has been inconsistent. Hill is a free agent after the 2025 season, and it’s unclear whether the Ravens will look to bring him back or look elsewhere for a more reliable depth option. The Ravens’ evaluation of Hill in 2025 will likely dictate whether they prioritize re-signing him or seeking a new running back to fill his role.

4. Lamar Jackson’s Impact

The presence of Lamar Jackson at quarterback is arguably the most significant factor shaping the Ravens’ running back strategy. Jackson’s unique dual-threat abilities mean that, in many ways, he serves as an additional running back on the field. His rushing ability has historically taken some of the burden off the running back position, as Jackson himself is a threat to break off a big run at any moment.

While Jackson’s running prowess allows the Ravens to rely less on their traditional running backs, it also means the Ravens must approach the position with a more committee-based approach to keep their backs fresh and avoid overusing them. In 2025, Jackson’s long-term health and the team’s ability to use him efficiently will continue to shape how the backfield is managed. The addition of complementary backs who can take some of the load off Jackson’s shoulders will be crucial in ensuring the team’s success while protecting their franchise quarterback.

The Evolution of Running Back Usage in the NFL

The NFL landscape has changed significantly over the past decade, particularly in terms of how running backs are used. The shift from workhorse backs to more specialized, committee-based backfields is evident across the league, and Baltimore is no exception.

In the past, running backs like Ray Rice and Jamal Lewis would get 300+ carries in a season and be expected to carry a majority of the offensive load. But in today’s NFL, teams are more reluctant to lean heavily on one back, especially in an era where running backs’ longevity is questioned and committees are considered more effective. As such, the Ravens have adapted to this trend, with a committee approach that balances the workload among multiple backs rather than relying on one player to shoulder the entire responsibility.

The Ravens’ 2025 offseason decisions will be influenced by these trends. With Lamar Jackson still in place, the team may focus on finding a running back who can provide a spark when needed but won’t necessarily be expected to carry the offense. While J.K. Dobbins could still be the feature back if he stays healthy, the team will likely continue to use a committee approach with Gus Edwards and Justice Hill rotating in and out based on game situation.

What the Ravens Should Do in the 2025 Offseason

Given the current state of the running back position, the Ravens have several key decisions to make as they head into the 2025 offseason:

1. Addressing J.K. Dobbins’ Contract Situation

J.K. Dobbins is entering a critical stage in his career. As the Ravens’ primary back, Dobbins has shown potential, but injuries and inconsistency have raised questions about his long-term future. Heading into 2025, the Ravens will need to make a decision about whether to extend Dobbins or let him play out the final years of his contract. If the team decides to move forward with him as their featured back, it will be crucial to secure him on a long-term deal. If they have concerns about his durability, they might opt for a short-term contract or even look for other options in free agency or the draft.

2. Evaluating Gus Edwards’ Future

Gus Edwards has been a reliable back for the Ravens, but at 29 years old in 2025, his future with the team is uncertain. Edwards’ contract expires after the 2025 season, and the Ravens will need to decide if they want to bring him back or look for a younger, fresher option. His ability to provide a power-running threat and contribute in short-yardage situations makes him valuable, but the team will have to consider whether it makes sense to keep him on a new deal or look for an upgrade.

3. Adding Depth Through the Draft or Free Agency

Given the committee-based approach to running back usage, the Ravens should look to add depth at the position in the 2025 offseason. If Dobbins and Edwards are both in place, the team could still use a change-of-pace back to complement the established duo. The Ravens may target a running back in the mid-to-late rounds of the 2025 NFL Draft, focusing on a player who could offer speed, receiving ability, and versatility. Alternatively, they could explore the free-agent market for a veteran back who can add depth without breaking the bank.

4. Protecting Lamar Jackson

The running back position is also closely tied to the Ravens’ ability to protect Lamar Jackson. Jackson’s rushing ability is an asset, but the Ravens must ensure that their offensive line and backfield can take some of the workload off Jackson’s shoulders. The addition of another reliable back in the draft or free agency could help preserve Jackson’s health and extend his career.

A Balanced and Strategic Approach

As the 2025 offseason approaches, the Ravens find themselves at a crossroads at the running back position. With J.K. Dobbins still the feature back, Gus Edwards offering reliability, and Justice Hill providing depth, the team is in a solid position but faces important decisions about how to structure the backfield moving forward.

In a league that increasingly values running back committees, the Ravens will likely continue to approach the position