The Baltimore Ravens are gearing up for a transformative 2026 NFL offseason, with a keen eye on reshaping their roster and maximizing their salary cap flexibility. Currently, they have over $22 million in available cap space, but there's potential for much more.
A central focus will be on quarterback Lamar Jackson. The Ravens are considering restructuring his contract or offering a lucrative extension. This move could mirror Kansas City's recent maneuver with Patrick Mahomes, potentially creating significant cap space.
With the legal tampering period just around the corner, Baltimore is exploring various options to increase their financial flexibility. Here's a breakdown of potential moves:
Salary Cap Space and Dead Money
As the March 9 legal tampering period approaches, the Ravens' cap space stands at $22,043,387. They also face a dead cap hit of $12,262,715, ranking them 16th in the league.
Potential Roster Moves
- Extend Lamar Jackson: By extending Jackson, the Ravens could free up $40,560,000. Despite missing four games last season, Jackson's near-MVP performance showcased his value, making this a strategic move.
- Restructure Lamar Jackson: This alternative could create $38,025,000 in cap space, offering another route to financial flexibility.
- Cut Roquan Smith: This would open up $20,000,000, though it comes with a $12,718,750 dead cap hit. Smith's Pro Bowl season, with 130 tackles, underscores his importance to the defense.
- Sign Roquan Smith to an Extension: This option would generate $14,960,000 in space without adding to the dead cap. Smith's consistent performance makes this an appealing option.
- Release Marlon Humphrey Post June 1: Moving on from Humphrey could free up $19,259,300, though it results in a $7,016,700 dead cap hit. Humphrey's performance dipped last season, making this a potential consideration.
- Release Broderick Washington Post June 1: This move would save $4,010,000, with a $1,850,000 dead cap hit. Washington has been a key defensive piece, but his recent injury might influence this decision.
- Release Andrew Vorhees: Letting Vorhees go would create $3,605,000 in space, with minimal dead cap. The offensive line's struggles last season could prompt this change.
Strategic Outlook
By extending Jackson and Smith and releasing Humphrey, Vorhees, and Washington, the Ravens could unlock over $80 million in cap space. This financial maneuvering positions them well to make significant offseason moves.
Future Considerations
The NFL projects a 2026 salary cap of $301M to $305M per team. With 22 unrestricted free agents, including notable names like Tyler Linderbaum and Isaiah Likely, GM Eric DeCosta has crucial decisions ahead. Baltimore's ability to clear cap space could facilitate a major acquisition, enhancing their already formidable coaching staff.
The Ravens are poised for a dynamic offseason, with strategic roster adjustments setting the stage for potential success in the upcoming season.