The Baltimore Ravens face an important decision regarding Mark Andrews’ future, as they assess his role, contract, and potential impact on the team’s offense moving forward.

The Baltimore Ravens have long been known for their tough, defensive-minded teams, but in recent years, the offense has taken center stage, particularly with the emergence of quarterback Lamar Jackson. A major contributor to the offensive success has been tight end Mark Andrews, who has established himself as one of the premier pass-catching tight ends in the NFL. However, as the Ravens look toward the future, they are faced with a critical decision regarding Andrews’ role, contract, and overall impact on the offense.

Since entering the NFL in 2018, Mark Andrews has been a consistent and reliable target for the Ravens, especially in the passing game. His blend of size, athleticism, and route-running ability has made him a favorite target of Jackson. Over the past few seasons, Andrews has been one of the top tight ends in the league, earning multiple Pro Bowl selections and setting numerous franchise records. Despite his success, the Ravens face a looming question: how should they approach Andrews’ future with the team?

In this analysis, we will explore the various factors at play in the Ravens’ decision-making process regarding Mark Andrews. These include his role in the offense, his contract situation, the Ravens’ cap space, and the team’s long-term goals. Additionally, we will examine the potential impact of retaining or moving on from Andrews and the possible consequences for the Ravens’ offense.

Mark Andrews’ Impact on the Ravens’ Offense

Mark Andrews’ importance to the Ravens’ offense cannot be overstated. Since being drafted in the third round of the 2018 NFL Draft, Andrews has developed into one of the most productive tight ends in the league. His ability to create mismatches with defenders due to his combination of size (6’5”, 256 pounds) and athleticism has made him a go-to option in the passing game.

One of Andrews’ biggest strengths is his chemistry with Lamar Jackson. Over the years, Jackson and Andrews have developed a unique connection that has been key to the Ravens’ offensive success. In particular, Andrews is Jackson’s favorite target in critical situations, including red-zone opportunities and third downs. In fact, Andrews has been a consistent presence in the end zone, leading the team in touchdowns in multiple seasons. His ability to create separation and his knack for making clutch catches in high-pressure moments have been invaluable for the Ravens.

Beyond his statistics, Andrews plays a crucial role in the Ravens’ offense by providing a versatile weapon that can be used in various ways. Whether lining up as a traditional tight end, in the slot, or even outside, Andrews offers offensive coordinator Greg Roman the flexibility to create mismatches against opposing defenses. His ability to stretch the field vertically, coupled with his ability to block in the run game, allows the Ravens to maintain a balanced offensive attack.

However, despite Andrews’ success, the Ravens’ offense has experienced some struggles in recent years. The team’s passing game has not reached the heights expected given Jackson’s potential as a quarterback, and much of the burden has fallen on Andrews as one of the few reliable receiving options. While Andrews is undoubtedly a star, the Ravens’ offense as a whole has lacked the depth and consistency required to compete at the highest level. With Jackson’s future with the team uncertain and a need to enhance their passing game, the Ravens must consider whether Andrews is a piece they should continue to build around or whether it is time to move in a new direction.

The Contract Situation: What’s at Stake for Andrews and the Ravens

Mark Andrews is currently under contract with the Ravens through the 2023 season, and his future with the team largely hinges on how the organization values his contribution and what they are willing to pay him moving forward. Andrews signed a four-year, $56 million extension with the Ravens in 2021, making him one of the highest-paid tight ends in the NFL. While this contract provides stability for both Andrews and the Ravens, it also creates a looming question about the future.

For Andrews, the next contract he signs could be the most important of his career, as it will likely determine the remainder of his playing days in Baltimore or elsewhere. He is entering the prime of his career, and he will seek to maximize his earning potential, especially given the longevity and physical demands of playing tight end in the NFL. If Andrews continues to perform at a high level, he could command another substantial contract, either from the Ravens or another team.

On the other hand, the Ravens have their own set of considerations when it comes to Andrews’ contract. They must evaluate whether paying a tight end of Andrews’ caliber is a wise investment in a cap-strapped environment. While Andrews has proven himself to be a top-tier player at his position, the Ravens’ overall team-building strategy and financial flexibility are key factors in making a decision about his future. If the Ravens opt to extend Andrews, they will likely need to adjust their other positions of need, especially considering that their salary cap will be impacted by a potential Lamar Jackson extension.

Moreover, the decision on Andrews’ contract becomes even more complicated with the Ravens’ need to address other areas of the roster. With the Ravens looking to upgrade their receiving corps, bolster their offensive line, and make improvements on defense, they may choose to allocate funds to other positions. If the Ravens believe that Andrews’ contract may limit their ability to make necessary roster improvements, they could explore the possibility of parting ways with him.

The Potential Impact on the Ravens’ Offense

The decision regarding Mark Andrews could have significant implications for the Ravens’ offense, both in terms of personnel and overall strategy. Let’s explore the potential outcomes based on whether the Ravens choose to keep or move on from Andrews.

If the Ravens Keep Mark Andrews:

• Continued Offensive Stability: Keeping Andrews would provide the Ravens with a reliable and proven target for Lamar Jackson (or whoever is the quarterback). His chemistry with Jackson is crucial, and losing him could disrupt the timing and consistency that both players have developed over the years.
• Enhanced Passing Attack: If Andrews remains with the team, the Ravens can continue to build their passing game around him, utilizing his ability to stretch the field vertically and make plays in the red zone. While the Ravens may still need to address their receiving corps, Andrews would provide a solid foundation for the passing game to grow from.
• Cap Flexibility Issues: On the flip side, keeping Andrews may limit the Ravens’ ability to make other roster moves, especially if they need to invest significant resources in their receiving corps or offensive line. Andrews’ large contract may restrict the team’s financial flexibility in other areas.

If the Ravens Move On from Mark Andrews:

• A Major Hole in the Offense: Trading or releasing Andrews would leave the Ravens without their most consistent offensive weapon, creating a significant gap in their passing game. Andrews’ absence would be difficult to replace, and the Ravens would need to find a new primary target for Jackson (or a future quarterback).
• Potential Cap Relief: Moving on from Andrews could free up significant cap space, which the Ravens could use to improve other areas of their team, such as their receiving corps or offensive line. However, the cap savings would come at the expense of one of the league’s top tight ends.
• A Shift in Offensive Philosophy: The Ravens may decide that they want to move toward a more balanced or run-heavy offensive philosophy, potentially utilizing their cap space to invest in other positions, such as an elite wide receiver. Moving on from Andrews would force the team to rethink their offensive approach and adjust to a new system.

Addressing the Future: Should the Ravens Keep or Move On?

Given the complexities involved in this decision, the Ravens must weigh their options carefully. There are several factors to consider:

1. Lamar Jackson’s Future: If Lamar Jackson remains the Ravens’ quarterback, keeping Andrews would likely be a smart move, as they have a strong connection that has been successful over the years. However, if Jackson departs, the Ravens may need to reevaluate their offensive personnel and determine whether Andrews is still the best fit.
2. Team Direction: The Ravens must also consider their long-term team-building strategy. If they believe their offense needs to evolve and become more dynamic, they may opt to move away from Andrews and allocate resources elsewhere. However, if they view Andrews as a key piece of their offensive puzzle, keeping him would ensure stability moving forward.
3. Financial Considerations: The Ravens are known for their cap management, but with a potential Lamar Jackson extension on the horizon, the team will need to balance their financial commitments. Andrews’ contract may become a sticking point in their decision, as they’ll need to ensure they can build a competitive roster without overcommitting to one player.