The Ravens are entering a new era - again. With a fresh trio of leadership at the top in the head coach, offensive coordinator, and defensive coordinator roles, Baltimore is clearly signaling that it's not content with just regular-season wins or MVP trophies for Lamar Jackson.
The goal now? Elevate this roster to championship caliber.
And with the new league year just three weeks away, the front office has a golden opportunity to reshape the roster through free agency - especially by targeting potential salary-cap casualties.
As teams scramble to get under the cap, some big names could be on the move. Here’s a breakdown of 15 players who might shake loose - and why they could be intriguing fits for the Ravens.
Baron Browning, EDGE, Cardinals
Browning came into the league as a third-round pick out of Ohio State and has flashed the kind of disruptive traits that defensive coordinators love.
In Arizona last season, he posted 14 tackles, four tackles for loss, three QB hits, and two sacks - solid numbers for a rotational edge rusher. He also picked off a pass, showcasing his versatility.
If the Ravens are looking for depth on the edge and a player with upside, Browning’s athleticism and familiarity with multiple defensive fronts make him a name to watch.
Jaylon Johnson, CB, Bears
Johnson’s 2025 campaign was derailed early by a groin injury, and he never fully found his rhythm.
He played in just seven games, tallying 17 tackles, one interception, and two pass breakups. Injuries have been a recurring theme - he’s missed significant time in four of his five seasons.
But when healthy, Johnson brings physicality and ball skills to the perimeter. If he’s cut loose, Baltimore could take a calculated risk on a talented cover man looking for a fresh start.
Cole Kmet, TE, Bears
Kmet is a big-bodied tight end who’s quietly been a steady contributor in Chicago.
In 2024, he started all 17 games and notched 47 receptions for 474 yards and four touchdowns. He also moved the chains 25 times.
He’s not a burner, but he’s reliable, especially in the red zone and on third downs. With Baltimore’s tight end room always in flux due to injuries and depth concerns, Kmet could be a dependable addition - especially in 12-personnel looks.
Grant Delpit, DB, Browns
Delpit is a tackling machine with over 450 career stops and seven interceptions to his name.
In 2025 alone, he added 89 tackles, a pick, two fumble recoveries, and three sacks. That’s the kind of stat line that screams versatility.
Whether playing deep, in the box, or covering tight ends, Delpit can do a bit of everything. If he becomes a cap casualty, he’d be a strong fit in a Ravens secondary that values hybrid safeties who can roam and hit.
Isaiah Rodgers, DB, Vikings
Rodgers had a standout moment in Week 3 with a pick-six and two forced fumbles, but outside of that, his 2025 season was more steady than spectacular.
He finished with 66 tackles and four pass breakups across 17 games. He’s under contract for one more year, but if Minnesota decides to move on, Rodgers could be a solid depth addition with special teams upside and starter experience.
Denzel Ward, CB, Browns
Ward’s résumé includes Pro Bowl honors, but his 2025 numbers dipped across the board - 39 tackles, one interception, and nine pass breakups over 15 games.
He played more snaps than the year before but didn’t produce at the same level. Still, Ward’s coverage skills and experience can’t be discounted.
If he’s let go, he won’t be on the market long. For a team like Baltimore that always values strong cornerback play, Ward could be a high-reward veteran addition.
T.J. Hockenson, TE, Vikings
Hockenson’s career has taken a hit since his ACL tear in 2023. The Vikings may ask him to restructure his deal, but if he’s released, he’d be one of the more talented tight ends on the open market.
His ability to stretch the field and win in contested catch situations would make him a tantalizing target for any offense - especially one that leans on tight ends like Baltimore.
Rashan Gary, OLB, Packers
Gary’s been consistent with back-to-back 7.5 sack seasons, but he’s also had stretches where he goes quiet.
With a hefty contract - $96 million over four years - Green Bay may look to trim costs. For the Ravens, Gary would be more than just a pass-rushing boost; he brings toughness and a relentless motor.
If he becomes available, expect plenty of interest.
Keisean Nixon, DB, Packers
Nixon had a rollercoaster 2025 season.
His coverage grade fluctuated, and he allowed seven touchdowns - not ideal for a cornerback in today’s pass-heavy NFL. But he also brings special teams value and experience in multiple coverages.
At 28, he still has tread on the tires, and a change of scenery could help him rediscover his form.
Jessie Bates III, DB, Falcons
Bates is a true center-field safety with range and ball skills.
In 2025, he started all 17 games, collecting 57 tackles, three interceptions, and six pass breakups. He’s the kind of player who can erase mistakes on the back end and lead a secondary.
If Atlanta makes a surprising move and cuts ties, Bates would be a premium addition to any defense.
Dawson Knox, TE, Bills
Knox has been a steady presence in Buffalo for years, but with Dalton Kincaid emerging, his role has diminished.
He still has value, especially in two-tight end sets, but his $17 million cap hit in 2026 could make him expendable. For a team like Baltimore that often leans on multiple tight ends, Knox’s blocking and red-zone ability could be a seamless fit.
Minkah Fitzpatrick, DB, Dolphins
Fitzpatrick’s 2025 season was solid - 82 tackles, one interception, six pass breakups, and two fumble recoveries in 14 games.
He remains one of the more instinctive safeties in the game, capable of making plays all over the field. If Miami parts ways with him, Fitzpatrick would be an instant upgrade for any secondary - and a leader in the locker room.
Dalton Schultz, TE, Texans
Schultz had a career year in 2025, hauling in 82 catches for 777 yards and three scores.
He caught at least three passes in six straight games to close out the season, showing chemistry with Houston’s young quarterback. If he hits the market, Schultz will be one of the most polished, reliable tight ends available - and a strong fit in a system that values route-running and sure hands.
Brandon Aiyuk, WR, 49ers
Aiyuk missed all of 2025 after suffering ACL and MCL injuries in late 2024.
But before that, he posted back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons and was one of the league’s more explosive route-runners. He’s under contract for three more years, but the $82 million price tag could be tough for the 49ers to swallow.
If he’s cut loose, Aiyuk would be a high-upside bet for a team willing to be patient with his recovery.
Justin Fields, QB, Jets
Fields’ lone season in New York didn’t go as planned.
He went 2-7 as a starter and ranked 28th in Total QBR. His cap hit for 2026 is steep, and the Jets could choose to spread it out over two years by releasing him.
While the Ravens don’t need a starting quarterback, Fields’ athleticism and playmaking ability could make him an intriguing backup option - especially in a system that already caters to a dual-threat QB.
A'Shawn Robinson, DT, Panthers
Robinson is a space-eater up front who can clog running lanes and take on double teams. Carolina could save $8.5 million by moving on, and if they do, Robinson could bring valuable depth and toughness to any defensive line rotation.
Grover Stewart, DT, Colts
Stewart is another interior lineman who thrives against the run.
He’s physical, consistent, and does the dirty work that doesn’t always show up on the stat sheet. For a team like Baltimore, which prides itself on defensive toughness, Stewart could be a savvy veteran pickup.
Final Thoughts
As the Ravens look to retool under new leadership, they’ll be watching the cap casualty market closely. With the right mix of veterans and upside plays, Baltimore could add key pieces without breaking the bank - and position themselves for a deeper playoff run in 2026.