Baltimore Ravens eye historic additions as they seek to bolster roster with DeAndre Hopkins and potential game-changing defenders in offseason shakeup
The Baltimore Ravens, a team with a proud history of defense and a recent renaissance on offense, are making bold moves this offseason. They are eyeing a historic roster overhaul with two primary objectives: acquiring superstar wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins and adding game-changing defenders to a defense that has been a mainstay of their identity for over two decades. With the NFL draft, free agency, and trade negotiations underway, the Ravens’ offseason shakeup could mark a pivotal moment in their journey to reclaim Super Bowl glory.
The Need for Offensive Firepower
The Ravens’ offense has undergone significant transformation over the last few years, primarily due to the unique skill set of quarterback Lamar Jackson. Known for his dynamic running ability, Jackson is one of the NFL’s most electrifying players. However, while his talents have propelled the team to multiple playoff appearances, the Ravens’ passing game has often lagged behind. The absence of a true No. 1 wide receiver has been a significant limiting factor.
Over the years, the Ravens have made attempts to bolster their receiving corps, but without a consistent, elite playmaker, their passing attack has been inconsistent. Marquise “Hollywood” Brown was a speedy and promising weapon, but he was traded to the Arizona Cardinals in 2022. The team’s primary receiver has often been tight end Mark Andrews, whose ability to make clutch catches has helped Jackson in the passing game but hasn’t been enough to push the Ravens to the next level.
This is where DeAndre Hopkins enters the picture.
DeAndre Hopkins: A Perfect Fit for the Ravens’ Offense
Hopkins is widely regarded as one of the best wide receivers in NFL history. His ability to make acrobatic catches, run precise routes, and perform in clutch situations makes him a natural fit for any offense, but especially for a team like the Ravens, which has struggled to find a true No. 1 receiver.
Hopkins’ production throughout his career speaks for itself. Over his tenure with the Houston Texans and Arizona Cardinals, he has amassed over 11,000 receiving yards, 71 touchdowns, and numerous Pro Bowl and All-Pro selections. His versatility allows him to thrive in any offensive system, and his leadership and mental toughness would be invaluable to a young, emerging team like the Ravens.
The addition of Hopkins would provide Jackson with a go-to weapon who could take the pressure off the running game and open up opportunities for other receivers and tight ends. Hopkins’ physicality, hands, and football IQ would make him a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses, potentially elevating the entire offense. With the Ravens looking to contend for the Super Bowl, securing Hopkins would not only improve their passing game but also add another layer of dynamism to the team.
Furthermore, Hopkins’ arrival could help Jackson in his contract negotiations, as it would demonstrate the Ravens’ commitment to surrounding their star quarterback with the best possible talent. As Jackson enters the final stages of his rookie contract, securing a player like Hopkins would send a strong message about the team’s direction, helping retain Jackson’s services for the long term.
Strengthening the Defense: The Ravens’ Identity
While the Ravens’ offense has had its struggles, their defense has consistently been one of the best in the NFL. Baltimore has long prided itself on its defensive prowess, producing Hall of Fame-caliber players such as Ray Lewis, Ed Reed, and Terrell Suggs, as well as several dominant defenses that propelled the team to success. Over the years, the Ravens have maintained a defense-first identity, and they remain one of the most difficult teams for opponents to move the ball against.
However, in recent seasons, the Ravens’ defense has experienced some noticeable gaps, particularly in the pass rush and coverage areas. Last year, despite boasting a top-10 defense overall, the Ravens struggled to generate consistent pressure on the quarterback, ranking just 14th in the league in sacks. Additionally, their pass defense has sometimes been exposed, especially in key moments when opposing quarterbacks have time to throw.
To address these issues, the Ravens are targeting several game-changing defenders, including potential edge rushers and cornerbacks. With the AFC North becoming increasingly competitive, and teams like the Kansas City Chiefs, Buffalo Bills, and Cincinnati Bengals continuing to thrive offensively, the Ravens will need to ensure their defense can compete at the highest level.
Edge Rushers and Pass Rush Potential
The Ravens’ primary focus in the defensive market is adding a dominant edge rusher. While they have talented players like Odafe Oweh and Tyus Bowser, the team still lacks an elite, double-team threat who can consistently disrupt the quarterback.
One name that has been floated as a potential target is former All-Pro edge rusher Jadeveon Clowney. Clowney has had a successful career as a disruptive force in the NFL, but he has never fully realized the sky-high potential that made him the first overall pick in the 2014 NFL Draft. If the Ravens can bring him aboard on a short-term deal, they could pair him with their existing talent to create a formidable pass rush. Clowney’s ability to play the run and apply pressure could be a valuable asset for Baltimore, as the team looks to improve their sack numbers and reduce the amount of time quarterbacks have to find open receivers.
Another name to watch is free agent Yannick Ngakoue, who had a brief stint with the Ravens in 2020. Ngakoue is known for his pass-rushing prowess and has been consistent throughout his career in terms of generating sacks. If the Ravens can negotiate a deal with Ngakoue, they would be adding a proven commodity who could give the team a consistent edge presence, helping to complement their strong interior defensive line.
Cornerback Reinforcements
Along with improving the pass rush, the Ravens are keen to add depth and talent to their cornerback room. The team has had solid cornerbacks in recent years, with Marlon Humphrey being the crown jewel of the unit. However, beyond Humphrey, there has been a lack of stability and consistency, particularly in key moments. Teams have often been able to exploit the Ravens’ secondary with high-powered passing games, something that cannot continue if Baltimore wants to remain competitive in the postseason.
One potential target for the Ravens is Jalen Ramsey, a perennial Pro Bowler and one of the best cornerbacks in the league. Ramsey was recently traded to the Miami Dolphins, but if any trade opportunities arise in the future, the Ravens should be in the conversation. His combination of size, speed, and ability to shut down top receivers would significantly bolster the Ravens’ secondary.
Alternatively, the Ravens could target up-and-coming cornerbacks in the draft, or look for a veteran who could offer leadership and stability. Players such as James Bradberry of the Philadelphia Eagles or Byron Murphy of the Arizona Cardinals would fit the Ravens’ system well and provide an additional level of toughness and experience to a secondary that could be one of the best in the league with the right pieces in place.
Drafting for the Future: A Balanced Approach
While the free-agent market and trade opportunities are critical, the Ravens must also look toward the NFL Draft to continue building a roster capable of long-term success. The team has been successful in drafting key contributors in recent years, such as offensive linemen, defensive players, and receivers. The 2025 NFL Draft will be an important opportunity for the Ravens to find valuable depth pieces to complement their more established stars.
Given their historical focus on defense, it wouldn’t be surprising if the Ravens target a top-tier linebacker or defensive back with one of their early picks. On the offensive side, the team could use additional playmaking options, especially if they do not land Hopkins or another top receiver.
