NFL free agency rumors: 3 players Baltimore Ravens should target this offseason

Here are 3 early names for the Baltimore Ravens to consider in free agency.

The Baltimore Ravens season has come to an end. Therefore, the front office must focus on refining the roster so they can make a run to the Super Bowl and bring another Lombardi Trophy to town.

When you have star players at pivotal spots like Lamar Jackson, building the team out around him comes much easier. Although, constantly competing each year does mean management has to juggle cap space each season. Where does the team’s current cap space situation stand? According to Spotrac.com, general manager Eric DeCosta will have just over $24 million to work with. Of course, that number can increase with further moves.

The Ravens have some key free agents poised to hit the market, and the team does have some obvious needs in areas. So, here are three options for the team to look into during free agency.

3. David Andrews, C

The center position will have to be addressed this offseason. Like a few other key spots, the player who occupied this position for the Ravens in 2020 is an impending free agent: Matt Skura.

Skura played in 15 games and started 12 of those in 2020. He came into the league in 2017 at age 24, and during his time with the club he started in 51 of the 54 regular-season games he played in. Spotrac.com has his current market value set at $10 million per year with a projected contract of just over $40 million for four years.

Now, Skura could be back with the Ravens for that deal. And, of course, projections are just that. So, there could be some give and take on the terms. But, if the front office decides to look elsewhere for a center, as the team may not feel inclined to head into 2021 with someone like Patrick Mekari at that spot, then David Andrews should be considered.

When you compare Andrews and Skura, there does not seem to be a drastic difference between the two. However, Spotrac projects Andrews’ deal to be nearly half of the projected cost for Skura. The website has Andrews’ number at a bit over $7.1 million a year, with a market value full deal of three years for over $21 million.

Bill Belichick may overpay that value to keep Andrews in New England, as the Patriots have some key offensive lineman ready for free agency. Although, there seems to be an indication the two sides could move on.

Andrews has spent the first five seasons of his career with the Patriots, starting 69 regular-season games in 72 appearances. He also won two Super Bowls.

This could be a savvy move, as DeCosta could let Skura walk and get a cheaper option in Andrews who has similar production to Skura.