The Baltimore Ravens are right in the thick of the AFC North race, but even with playoff hopes alive, there’s a bigger-picture issue that’s hard to ignore: this offense still doesn’t have a go-to, game-breaking wide receiver. And that’s a problem - whether Lamar Jackson is on the field or not.
Sure, Jackson’s had his moments this season, but the passing game has lacked consistency. That’s not all on him. The Ravens have built an offense that can run the ball with power and creativity, but when it comes time to stretch the field or convert a critical third down through the air, they don’t have that true No. 1 target who can take over a game.
That brings us to the offseason, where the Ravens could - and arguably should - be in the market for a top-tier wideout. One name that’s already drawing attention: George Pickens.
According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, Baltimore has the cap flexibility to make a move in 2026, with around $40 million in space. That gives them the financial firepower to chase a player like Pickens, assuming he hits the market.
Now, that’s a big “if.” Pickens is currently with the Dallas Cowboys, and while there’s a chance he becomes available, the more likely scenario is a franchise tag.
Fowler notes that possibility, and it’s worth remembering that Dallas has a history of dragging its feet on extensions. Just look at the last couple of years - Jerry Jones has played hardball with his stars before, sometimes to the point of a trade when deals couldn’t get done.
If Dallas decides to tag Pickens, that’s probably the end of the story for now. But if he does shake loose?
Baltimore could be a serious player. John Harbaugh has a strong track record of managing personalities in the locker room, and Pickens, for all his talent, brings some edge with him.
That’s not necessarily a bad thing - the Ravens have thrived with bold, vocal leaders before - but it’s something to consider.
The fit makes sense. Pickens is a physical, explosive receiver who can win on the outside, stretch the field vertically, and bring some much-needed swagger to the Ravens’ receiving corps. And with Jackson under center, having a true WR1 could elevate this offense to a new level - not just in the regular season, but deep into January.
But if Pickens stays in Dallas or gets tagged, Baltimore will need a Plan B. And that’s where things get tricky.
The free agent market for wideouts isn’t always deep, and drafting a rookie to be “the guy” right away carries its own risks. The Ravens have tried that route before with mixed results.
For now, though, the focus has to remain on the present. Despite back-to-back losses to division rivals, the Ravens are still in the hunt for the AFC North crown.
The road won’t be easy, but the opportunity is still there. And if they can finish strong, it’ll only strengthen their case as a destination for a big-name receiver in the offseason.
Bottom line: Baltimore’s offense needs a spark on the outside. If George Pickens becomes available, the Ravens should be ready to pounce.
Because if they want to take the next step - not just make the playoffs, but win in them - they’ll need more than just Lamar’s magic. They’ll need a true No.