As the 2026 NFL offseason kicks off, the Baltimore Ravens are gearing up for some significant changes. Their primary focus?
Reshaping the roster and helping Lamar Jackson elevate his game as a passer. A big part of this strategy involves restructuring Jackson's contract or signing him to a lucrative extension.
This move might echo Kansas City's recent approach with Patrick Mahomes. With the legal tampering period starting March 9, Baltimore faces a $12.26 million dead cap hit, placing them 16th in the NFL-a figure that could grow.
The NFL has informed teams of a projected 2026 salary cap between $301 million and $305 million. Baltimore, with 22 unrestricted free agents, will see GM Eric DeCosta evaluating key players like Tyler Linderbaum, Isaiah Likely, and Kyle Van Noy.
Here are five bold predictions for the Ravens' 2026 offseason:
1. Lamar Jackson's New Deal
Jackson holds significant leverage with unmanageable cap hits looming for 2026 and 2027. Having completed the third year of a five-year, $260 million deal, Jackson is currently the 10th-highest-paid quarterback.
Given recent trends with quarterbacks like Dak Prescott and Josh Allen, Jackson could command $65.5 to $67 million annually. Factoring in inflation and a 24.2% salary cap increase since 2023, he might secure upwards of $64.5 million per year.
Prediction: Jackson signs a four-year, $252 million extension.
2. Rashod Bateman Trade
Last season's 8-9 record highlighted struggles, particularly with Rashod Bateman, who had a down year and missed the AFC North title game due to illness. After a stellar 2024, Bateman's numbers dipped: 13 games, 12 starts, 38 targets, 19 receptions, 224 yards, and two touchdowns.
With uncertainty at wide receiver, Baltimore might even consider bringing back DeAndre Hopkins. Prediction: Bateman is traded for a fresh start.
3. Drafting Offensive Guards
Ronnie Stanley and Roger Rosengarten were strong performers, while Tyler Linderbaum, possibly leaving, earned Pro Bowl honors. Head coach Jesse Minter emphasized the need for offensive line depth, hinting at a rebuild.
The offensive line struggled, especially at guard. Daniel Faalele is likely departing, and Andrew Vorhees could be cut after allowing three sacks and earning a low PFF grade.
Prediction: Ravens draft two offensive guards in the first three rounds.
4. Marlon Humphrey's Position Switch
Once a Pro Bowl cornerback, Humphrey's performance dipped in 2025. Discussions about moving him to safety have been ongoing, and under coach Jess Minter, this switch is expected in 2026.
5. Pursuing a Pass Rusher
With Nnamdi Madubuike and Broderick Washington out due to injuries, Baltimore's pass rush needs bolstering. Rookie Mike Green showed promise late in the season, but the team still requires reinforcements.
Dre'Mont Jones is seen as a key piece to re-sign, while Tavius Robinson and Adisa Isaac are set to return from injury. Prediction: Ravens aggressively pursue a top-tier pass rusher.
The Ravens are poised for a transformative offseason, aiming to strengthen their roster and support Lamar Jackson's development. With strategic moves and key signings, Baltimore is setting the stage for a promising 2026 season.