Baltimore Ravens free agency 2017: Top 5 targets

Sep 25, 2016; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco (5) looks on during the third quarter against the Jacksonville Jaguars at EverBank Field. Baltimore Ravens won 19-17. Mandatory Credit: Logan Bowles-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 25, 2016; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco (5) looks on during the third quarter against the Jacksonville Jaguars at EverBank Field. Baltimore Ravens won 19-17. Mandatory Credit: Logan Bowles-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 13, 2016; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars cornerback Prince Amukamara (21) runs out of the tunnel before a football game against the Houston Texans at EverBank Field. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 13, 2016; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars cornerback Prince Amukamara (21) runs out of the tunnel before a football game against the Houston Texans at EverBank Field. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Prince Amukamara

The past few offseasons, the Ravens have elected to not address their cornerback group too much. Jimmy Smith is one of the best shutdown corners in the NFL. However, his health is always a concern. Last season, with Smith in the lineup, Baltimore was arguably the most efficient defense in the league. Without him, they were far worse off. One could argue Smith’s injury woes cost them a playoff spot. Expect Baltimore to address their secondary.

They likely won’t pursue someone expensive a la Logan Ryan or A.J. Bouye. Most likely, Baltimore will pursue a veteran corner who can be a strong number two. Finding two number one corners is unrealistic because most teams don’t even have one. Prince Amukamara seems like a good fit for the Ravens.

He’s solid in run defense, which is important for Baltimore. Assuming they lose valuable run stuffer Brandon Williams in free agency, they’ll be relying a bit more on their secondary for some help. The sudden loss of Zachary Orr hurts as well.

Amukamara didn’t record an interception last season, but did accumulate 49 tackles in 14 games (12 starts). His 2016 Pro Football Focus grade is a respectable 76.6. Captain Munnerlyn will be another guy Baltimore will look at, but Amukamara is younger so he’s a better fit.