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Jeremy Maclin rumors: Ravens hoping to sign him

By Brad Berreman

Oct 30, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Jeremy Maclin (19) drops a pass against Indianapolis Colts cornerback Vontae Davis (21) at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 30, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Jeremy Maclin (19) drops a pass against Indianapolis Colts cornerback Vontae Davis (21) at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /
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The list of suitors for Jeremy Maclin is building, and the Baltimore Ravens are hoping for a chance to sign him.

The NFL is a cutthroat, 24-7 business, and that was most recently evident when the Kansas City Chiefs cut wide receiver Jeremy Maclin last Friday. Just two years into a five-year, $55 million deal, but coming off a poor 2016 season, Maclin instantly became one of the biggest names available.

The Buffalo Bills seem to be preparing to sign Maclin, with players recruiting him and a visit now scheduled for Tuesday. But ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported plans are being made for a visit to the Baltimore Ravens on Wednesday, and they’re hoping to sign Maclin if he leaves Buffalo without a contract.

If the Ravens get a chance to meet with Maclin, an opportunity for a significant role is very similar to the situation in Buffalo. With the retirement of Steve Smith Sr., the free agent departure of Kamar Aiken and another hip injury likely ending the career of tight end Dennis Pitta, the Ravens are without two of their top three receivers and a total of 185 receptions (272 targets) and 1,856 yards from last season from that trio. Fullback Kyle Juszczyk (37 catches for 266 yards) also left in free agency, so Baltimore has just one player (Mike Wallace) returning who had more than 34 receptions in 2016.

Maclin has some connections in Buffalo, and running back LeSean McCoy quickly acknowledged serving as a lead recruiter. But Ravens’ offensive coordinator Marty Mornhingweg had the same post with the Eagles during Maclin’s first four seasons in the league, and that may matter a lot to a veteran wide receiver looking for a particularly good fit.

Related Story: 5 free agent destinations for Jeremy Maclin

If the Bills sign Maclin, any other team’s interest becomes a moot point. But a potential second stop in Baltimore seems sure to be his last, with a unique opportunity to add a notable free agent in June.

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