A look at Baltimore’s trades, cuts, and signings using the Ravens free-agency tracker
The Baltimore Ravens are no strangers to making bold moves in free agency. As one of the most storied franchises in the NFL, Baltimore has consistently shown a commitment to building a team capable of competing for championships. The 2025 NFL offseason was no different. The Ravens were active participants in free agency, looking to improve their roster through trades, cuts, and signings in order to solidify their status as a Super Bowl contender in the ever-competitive AFC.
Using the Ravens’ Free Agency Tracker, we will take a deep dive into the team’s moves, analyzing their strategy, the key players they added or parted ways with, and how each decision impacts the team moving forward.
Key Trades: Moving to Make a Splash
Trades have been a vital aspect of the Ravens’ strategy over the years, and this offseason, the front office continued to build their roster through key acquisitions. While Baltimore has typically focused on the draft and signing veteran free agents, they made some significant trades that have the potential to reshape their roster.
- Acquiring Odell Beckham Jr.
The most notable trade and free-agent acquisition this offseason was the signing of Odell Beckham Jr., the former star wide receiver for the Los Angeles Rams. Beckham’s deal was one of the most talked-about transactions in the NFL this offseason, with the Ravens adding a dynamic playmaker to their offense. Beckham was a top free agent, and his ability to stretch the field and make big plays in crucial moments was something the Ravens needed in their receiving corps.
This move was a clear indication that the Ravens are looking to elevate their offense. Beckham has had some injury issues in recent years, but when healthy, he remains one of the most talented wide receivers in the game. His ability to make explosive plays will open up opportunities for other Ravens’ receivers, as well as Lamar Jackson, who will benefit from having a true No. 1 wide receiver for the first time in his career.
Key Cuts: Moving on From Veterans to Make Room for the Future
As part of their strategy to revamp the roster and add depth, the Ravens also made a few key cuts. These decisions weren’t easy, but they were necessary to create cap space and free up opportunities for younger talent to step up. In order to make room for significant signings like Beckham and other new acquisitions, Baltimore had to part ways with a few veterans who no longer fit into the team’s long-term plans.
- Cutting Wide Receiver Sammy Watkins
The decision to cut Sammy Watkins was one of the more notable moves for the Ravens this offseason. Watkins, who was signed in the 2021 offseason to add depth to the receiving corps, was often injured and struggled to make a consistent impact on the field. After two seasons with the Ravens, the team decided it was time to move on, opting to make room for younger, more dynamic receivers like Beckham.
This cut allowed the Ravens to save cap space while making room for fresh talent. Despite his storied career, Watkins’ time in Baltimore was marked by injuries and inconsistent production. The team is now better positioned to invest in younger wide receivers who can offer more consistency and potential moving forward.
- Releasing Defensive Back Jimmy Smith
Another tough decision for the Ravens came with the release of veteran cornerback Jimmy Smith. Smith, a long-time Ravens contributor, had been a stalwart in the secondary for years but was dealing with injuries and had become less effective in recent seasons. Given the emergence of younger cornerbacks such as Marlon Humphrey and the continued development of the defense, the Ravens chose to move on from Smith, ultimately freeing up salary cap space for other moves.
While Smith’s departure marks the end of an era for the Ravens, the team’s secondary remains one of the most formidable in the NFL, and the front office was confident in their ability to develop younger players to fill the void.
Notable Signings: Strengthening the Roster for 2025
In addition to trades and cuts, the Ravens were extremely active in free agency, bringing in several players who are expected to make an immediate impact. These signings help solidify both sides of the ball and give the Ravens much-needed depth as they look to compete for a championship in 2025.
- Defensive Tackle Calais Campbell Returns
The return of Calais Campbell was a huge win for the Ravens. Campbell is one of the best defensive linemen of his generation and remains an incredibly valuable player for Baltimore. Though Campbell is aging, his leadership and presence on the field still make him one of the most dominant players in the NFL.
By re-signing Campbell, the Ravens ensured that their defensive front remained as strong as ever. His ability to disrupt the pocket, collapse the pocket on passing plays, and set the edge against the run is something that the Ravens will lean on heavily in 2025. Moreover, his leadership is invaluable to a defense that has traditionally prided itself on physicality and toughness.
- Wide Receiver Nelson Agholor
In addition to Beckham, the Ravens also signed Nelson Agholor to further bolster their receiving corps. Agholor, who had a solid stint with the New England Patriots, adds a reliable, veteran presence to the Ravens’ offense. Known for his speed and ability to stretch the field, Agholor offers another dynamic option for Jackson, complementing the talents of Beckham, Rashod Bateman, and others.
Agholor’s signing is particularly crucial for the Ravens as it provides Jackson with another wide receiver who can help create space for explosive plays. The addition of Agholor also gives the Ravens valuable depth in case injuries affect their receiver unit, a common theme in recent years.
- Inside Linebacker Bobby Wagner
One of the most exciting signings of the Ravens’ offseason was that of Bobby Wagner, a former Seattle Seahawks and Los Angeles Rams linebacker. Wagner, a future Hall of Famer, was brought in to bolster an already talented linebacker unit, which includes players like Patrick Queen and Roquan Smith. Wagner’s experience and leadership will be invaluable in guiding the younger players on the team, and his ability to read the game and make plays in the middle of the field adds another layer of strength to the defense.
Wagner’s presence should significantly improve the Ravens’ ability to stop the run and cover in the middle of the field. His veteran savvy will be critical in the AFC North, where teams like the Cleveland Browns and Cincinnati Bengals have potent ground attacks. With Wagner in the fold, the Ravens will have a more versatile and complete linebacker group heading into 2025.
- Offensive Guard Ben Powers
To continue improving the protection for Lamar Jackson, the Ravens also made a key signing on the offensive line by adding Ben Powers. Powers, a strong and durable guard, brings stability to the interior offensive line and helps shore up the protection for Jackson, one of the most mobile quarterbacks in the league. Powers, who previously played for the Denver Broncos, is known for his toughness and ability to create running lanes for his team’s ground game.
The Ravens have long had one of the best offensive lines in the NFL, and the signing of Powers further strengthens that unit. With the additional help on the line, Jackson will have more time to survey the field and make plays in the passing game while continuing to do what he does best—improvise and create on the run.
Final Thoughts: How the Ravens’ Moves Shape Their 2025 Outlook
The Ravens’ trades, cuts, and signings this offseason show a front office that is fully committed to contending for a Super Bowl in 2025. The acquisition of Beckham gives the team a true No. 1 wide receiver for the first time in years, while the re-signing of Campbell and the addition of Wagner solidifies an already elite defense. The signings of Agholor and Powers, meanwhile, give the Ravens depth and stability at key positions.
As they head into the 2025 season, the Ravens are poised to compete with the best in the AFC. With Lamar Jackson leading the way, a top-tier defense, and an offense that is significantly improved, the Ravens are one of the most dangerous teams in the conference. The AFC North remains a tough division, but Baltimore’s moves this offseason show they’re ready to compete for the division title and more.
The Ravens’ free agency activity has made them a team to watch in 2025, and with all the new additions and upgrades, they look primed to make a deep run in the playoffs and potentially challenge for another Super Bowl championship. If they can stay healthy and continue to play their brand of tough, physical football, Baltimore could very well be in the mix come January. The 2025 season is shaping up to be an exciting one for the Ravens and their fans.
