Baltimore Ravens GM Eric DeCosta recently shed light on the team's strategy heading into the offseason. After closing out the 2025 season with an 8-9 record and missing the playoffs, the Ravens are gearing up for a new chapter under first-year head coach Jesse Minter.
Speaking on "The Inner Circle" podcast, DeCosta hinted at a cautious approach to free agency. “I don’t get as involved with free agency, so I’m not gonna spend as much time," he noted, emphasizing the team's preference for developing talent through the draft rather than splurging on big-name signings.
This approach isn't new for the Ravens. "We don’t spend a lot of money in free agency," DeCosta explained.
"We’ve never been a free agency team. We’re a draft and develop team.”
The strategy has paid dividends in the past, notably with the selection of Lamar Jackson at No. 32 in the 2018 draft. Jackson has since become a two-time MVP, a testament to the team's focus on nurturing homegrown talent.
However, managing his contract remains a key challenge, with Jackson set to count $74.5 million against the salary cap in 2026 and 2027. A new deal could make him the league's highest-paid player.
Looking ahead, the Ravens hold the No. 14 pick in the upcoming NFL draft. This presents a prime opportunity to address some of the team's needs. Early speculation suggests Baltimore might target a guard with their first-round selection, aiming to bolster their roster and return to playoff contention.