Ravens Face Tough Decisions on Key Free Agents Ahead of NFL Combine

BALTIMORE, Md. — The Baltimore Ravens are poised to make crucial decisions as they approach the start of free agency, particularly surrounding offensive linemen Ronnie Stanley and Patrick Mekari. With the NFL Scouting Combine recently wrapped up, the focus has turned to whether the team will re-sign these key players.

During a media session at the combine, Ravens General Manager Eric DeCosta expressed optimism about extending the contract of left tackle Ronnie Stanley. Jeremy Fowler, an ESPN insider, reported that there’s a growing belief in league circles that the Ravens could finalize a deal with Stanley in the coming days, likely worth between $21-23 million annually.

“The sense out of Indy is that the Ravens and left tackle Ronnie Stanley can agree to terms on an extension in the coming days,” Fowler stated. Retaining Stanley is critical for the Ravens as he serves as a key protector for quarterback Lamar Jackson.

However, if the Ravens are unable to secure Stanley’s return, the New England Patriots may be ready to step in, having the highest cap space in the league at $127 million. Mike Reiss highlighted the Patriots’ potential interest, noting that a rival NFL executive suggested New England would aggressively pursue Stanley if he enters unrestricted free agency.

“It was hardly surprising, and also reflective of the type of conversations that take place at the combine, where front office executives, coaches, scouts, agents, and reporters come together to set the stage for free agency and the NFL draft,” Reiss added.

Fowler also pointed out that two other Ravens — cornerback Brandon Stephens and offensive lineman Patrick Mekari — are generating attention as free agency approaches. “The Baltimore corner has length and competes. His name came up unprompted in multiple talks with teams,” Fowler noted.

The Ravens are also looking to add a safety to complement Kyle Hamilton. While Ar’Darius Washington, a restricted free agent, is expected to return, the team desires a third safety to enhance their defensive strategy. Gary Davenport suggested pursuing former All-Pro Tyrann Mathieu from the New Orleans Saints, who is currently in financial turmoil with a cap overage exceeding $47 million.

“Tyrann Mathieu will be 33 when the 2025 season begins. His last All-Pro nod came in 2020 with the Kansas City Chiefs. Simply put, he isn’t the player he once was. But the LSU product is a versatile defensive back who can play multiple positions,” Davenport wrote.

Meanwhile, The Athletic‘s Jeff Zrebiec predicted which unrestricted free agents the Ravens might retain or lose. He believes fullback Patrick Ricard will stay due to both sides wanting to work out a deal. Conversely, he expects cornerback Brandon Stephens and offensive lineman Patrick Mekari may leave for greater opportunities, particularly if Stanley’s contract takes precedence.

“It would be quite a story if the former undrafted free agent, who has started 53 games and played every position up front, gets a third contract. The Ravens, though, are prioritizing re-signing Stanley,” Zrebiec commented.

In the wake of the combine, the Ravens must balance loyalty to current players with strategic financial planning. Securing Stanley could complicate their ability to re-sign Mekari, who may command substantial salary due to his versatility and reliability.

As the legal negotiating window opens on March 10, both the Ravens and their free agents face uncertainty. Baltimore’s decisions could dramatically shape the team’s future performance and competitiveness in the upcoming season.