The Baltimore Ravens are stepping into a fresh chapter. With the departure of long-time coach John Harbaugh, new head coach Jesse Minter is set to lead the team through a period of transition. This shift means we’ll see new faces on the coaching staff and possibly some familiar ones leaving the roster as free agency looms.
The Ravens have a hefty list of 24 players entering free agency this offseason. While some are key pieces the team hopes to retain, others might be considered for more budget-friendly contracts.
However, there are a few players the Ravens might be wise to let walk. Let’s dive into who these players are and why Baltimore should feel at ease with these decisions.
Center Tyler Linderbaum is the most prominent free agent for the Ravens. As one of the league’s top centers, he’s expected to draw a significant contract. Baltimore’s primary focus this offseason will likely be on keeping Linderbaum in the fold.
Beyond Linderbaum, several offensive players are set to test the market. The Ravens’ offensive line, which had a tough season, sees guard Daniel Faalele and left tackle Joseph Noteboom heading into free agency. Notably, fullback Pat Ricard, tight ends Isaiah Likely and Charlie Kolar, and wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins will also be free agents.
Defensively, standout cornerback Chidobe Awuzie will be available after his one-year stint with the team. Other defensive free agents include pass-rushers Kyle Van Noy, Dre'Mont Jones, David Ojabo, and safety Alohi Gilman.
The offensive line had its most challenging year during Lamar Jackson’s tenure. Historically reliable, Baltimore’s pass protection faltered in 2025. Injuries and inconsistent play plagued the line, with everyone but Linderbaum struggling at times.
In this turmoil, Daniel Faalele’s struggles were particularly glaring. His performance became a talking point among fans, as he graded out as a below-average guard according to PFF. Given these struggles, a mutual parting seems beneficial for both Faalele and the Ravens.
The saying goes that football games are won in the trenches, and the Ravens’ difficulties on both lines were evident last season. While the offensive line struggled to protect Jackson, the defensive line couldn’t generate consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks, exposing other defensive weaknesses.
A retool of the offensive line is clearly needed. David Ojabo, drafted in the second round in 2022, has had opportunities to showcase his potential but hasn’t done enough to secure his spot. With the defensive line being a priority, Ojabo might be among the first to leave.
On the brighter side, Dre'Mont Jones was a pleasant surprise for Baltimore. Acquired from the Tennessee Titans at the trade deadline, Jones contributed 2.5 sacks for the Ravens, adding to the 4.5 he had with Tennessee.
While his numbers are solid, they might not justify the larger contract he’s likely to seek. With more promising pass-rushers available in the draft and free agency, Baltimore might be better served investing elsewhere on the defensive line.