Trade rumors involving Mark Andrews of the Baltimore Ravens are circulating at the Scouting Combine.

As the NFL Scouting Combine wraps up, trade rumors involving Mark Andrews, the star tight end for the Baltimore Ravens, have been gaining traction. This speculation comes as teams across the league evaluate their rosters, looking to make moves that could boost their chances for success in the upcoming season. For the Ravens, who are entering a critical stage in their franchise’s development, the idea of trading away one of their most dynamic offensive weapons raises significant questions. While Andrews has been a cornerstone of the team’s offense, especially in the passing game, a trade could indicate a shift in team strategy and priorities.

In this article, we will explore the potential motivations behind the trade rumors involving Mark Andrews, the possible teams that might pursue him, and how a trade would impact both the Ravens’ immediate future and their long-term plans.

Who is Mark Andrews?

Mark Andrews has been one of the most prolific and reliable tight ends in the NFL since being drafted by the Ravens in the third round of the 2018 NFL Draft. Coming out of the University of Oklahoma, Andrews was known for his excellent route running, hands, and ability to create mismatches against both linebackers and safeties. Over the years, he has cemented himself as the primary target in the Ravens’ passing attack.

In 2021, Andrews had one of the most impressive seasons for a tight end in NFL history, posting over 1,300 yards and 9 touchdowns. He is not only the go-to option for quarterback Lamar Jackson, but also a player that defenses must account for on every snap. As of now, Andrews has been the backbone of the Ravens’ offense, serving as a trusted security blanket for Jackson and a player capable of taking over games.

However, with the Ravens entering an uncertain period—facing questions about Jackson’s future, cap space limitations, and a need to improve the offensive weaponry—Andrews’ name has emerged in trade talks. Could the Ravens be considering moving on from one of their most consistent and talented players to address other team needs?

Why Would the Ravens Consider Trading Mark Andrews?

While the idea of trading a Pro Bowl-caliber tight end like Mark Andrews may seem outlandish to some, there are several factors that could make this a viable option for the Ravens. Trading Andrews would mark a significant shift in the team’s offensive philosophy and roster construction, but such a move could be driven by several underlying motivations.

1. Rebuilding the Roster Around Lamar Jackson’s Future

One of the biggest reasons the Ravens could consider trading Andrews is related to the ongoing uncertainty surrounding quarterback Lamar Jackson’s contract situation. Jackson, the former MVP, is seeking a lucrative long-term deal, but as of now, the two sides have yet to reach an agreement on a new contract. The trade rumors involving Andrews may be connected to the Ravens’ desire to free up cap space to secure Jackson’s future in Baltimore.

Given the impact of Jackson’s contract on the salary cap, the team could be faced with the reality of having to make sacrifices in other areas, including trading away top-tier talent like Andrews. If the Ravens need to clear cap space to offer Jackson the financial commitment he seeks, dealing Andrews could be an easy way to free up significant room, allowing the team to address other pressing needs, such as the wide receiver position, offensive line, or defensive depth.

Additionally, trading Andrews could allow the Ravens to acquire draft capital or young talent to rebuild their roster around Jackson’s long-term success. Given how dynamic Jackson is as a quarterback, the team may prefer to focus on surrounding him with more versatile and speedy players, potentially shifting away from a heavy reliance on the tight end position.

2. Changing Offensive Philosophy

The Ravens have historically relied heavily on their tight ends, especially with Andrews at the forefront. The team has run an offense that features a lot of 12-personnel (two tight ends on the field) and incorporates tight ends in a major way in the passing game. But as the NFL has evolved, so too have offensive strategies, with a growing emphasis on spreading the field with multiple wide receivers and utilizing running backs more effectively in the passing game.

If the Ravens are looking to transition to a more pass-heavy, wide-receiver-oriented offense, they might find themselves moving away from the traditional tight end-heavy schemes that have worked in the past. In this context, trading Andrews would allow the team to reallocate resources toward upgrading their receiving corps, which has been a weak point in recent seasons. By adding more speed and athleticism at wide receiver, the Ravens could give Jackson more weapons to work with, reducing their reliance on a star tight end.

3. Cap Space and Financial Flexibility

Mark Andrews is one of the highest-paid tight ends in the league, and with the Ravens facing a limited salary cap, the possibility of trading him could be seen as a way to free up significant financial flexibility. While trading Andrews would create a gap in the passing game, it would also provide the Ravens with a large sum of money that could be invested elsewhere, whether in improving the receiving corps, adding depth to the defense, or securing long-term stability with Jackson.

The Ravens, like many teams, are operating within the confines of the salary cap, and big contracts to players like Andrews, Jackson, and others could limit their ability to make moves in free agency. Trading Andrews would alleviate some of that financial pressure, opening up more opportunities for general manager Eric DeCosta to maneuver in the offseason.

What Would the Ravens Get in Return?

The idea of trading a player of Andrews’ caliber would certainly generate significant interest across the NFL. Teams looking to upgrade their offense with a top-tier tight end would likely be calling the Ravens’ front office. The asking price for a player like Andrews would be high, as he is not only one of the best at his position but also a consistent and durable player who can impact the game in multiple ways.

At the very least, the Ravens could expect to receive a first-round draft pick in return for Andrews. Given his production and the value he brings to an offense, teams would likely be willing to part with premium draft capital to acquire him. The Ravens could also negotiate for additional picks or young players to help rebuild the team.

Teams with a pressing need for a playmaking tight end would likely be the most aggressive suitors. For example, teams with quarterback issues or teams looking to make a deep playoff run could see Andrews as the missing piece to elevate their offense.

Possible Destinations for Mark Andrews

Given his talents and reputation, several teams could make sense as potential landing spots for Andrews. Some of the most likely candidates are:

1. The Green Bay Packers
The Packers, coming off an era dominated by quarterback Aaron Rodgers, are in a transitional phase. While Rodgers’ future remains uncertain, the team has a clear need for a top-tier receiving weapon. A trade for Mark Andrews would give Jordan Love, the likely future starting quarterback, a reliable and dynamic weapon to develop with. The Packers’ offense has been lacking a true receiving threat at tight end, and Andrews would provide a security blanket for a young quarterback.

2. The New England Patriots
Bill Belichick’s Patriots have long had a history of utilizing versatile tight ends, and adding a player like Andrews would give their offense a major boost. With Mac Jones entering a critical third year, the Patriots could look to surround him with more dynamic options. Trading for Andrews would allow them to continue their philosophy of using tight ends as focal points in their offense. The Patriots have the draft capital and resources to make a move for Andrews, and such a trade would immediately elevate their passing attack.

3. The Tennessee Titans
The Titans, led by head coach Mike Vrabel, are always looking for ways to improve their offense around star running back Derrick Henry. Adding a dynamic pass-catching tight end like Andrews would take some of the pressure off Henry and give quarterback Ryan Tannehill a reliable option in the passing game. With Traylon Burks emerging as a potential star at wide receiver, Andrews could be the missing piece to a balanced and potent offense.

4. The Miami Dolphins
The Dolphins, with quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and a high-powered offense built around speed, could look to add a steady and reliable presence in the middle of the field. Andrews’ ability to stretch the field and create mismatches would fit perfectly into Mike McDaniel’s offensive system. With the Dolphins already having several weapons at wide receiver, Andrews would add a unique dimension to their offense, complementing the deep threat of Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle.

Impact on the Ravens’ Roster

If the Ravens were to move on from Andrews, they would face a considerable void in their offense. However, the team has shown that it can adapt quickly, especially under offensive coordinator Greg Roman, who has designed schemes to maximize player potential. The Ravens would likely need to add another tight end or offensive weapon to help fill the gap left by Andrews’ departure.

Additionally, the Ravens may need to focus more on wide receiver acquisitions, as their receiving corps has been one of the team’s weakest areas in recent seasons. Trading Andrews could push them to allocate resources to the wide receiver position, whether through free agency or the draft.

Defensively, the Ravens would likely look to bolster their pass rush and secondary, but their main priority would be ensuring that Jackson has enough weapons to lead the team in 2023 and beyond.