The Baltimore Ravens have some significant tasks ahead this offseason, and Jesse Minter's leadership will be pivotal in navigating these challenges. At the top of the list is Lamar Jackson's contract situation, along with retaining key players like Isaiah Likely and Tyler Linderbaum. But there's another pressing issue on the horizon.
The Ravens' defense struggled at times in 2025, and rebuilding that unit should be a priority. According to NFL.com's Matt Okada, restoring the defensive front is Baltimore's most urgent need.
Just a few years back, this unit anchored the league's top scoring defense. Fast forward to 2025, and it's become a glaring weakness.
The solution? A strategic focus on both free agency and the draft to revitalize the defensive line as the Jesse Minter era begins.
Now, let's talk about Lamar Jackson's contract. It's a pressing matter, especially with the Ravens facing a massive $74.5 million cap hit.
Addressing the defensive front will likely require some big moves in free agency, so creating cap space is crucial. Extending or restructuring Lamar's contract could ease his 2026 cap hit significantly.
In an ideal scenario, the Ravens would lock Lamar into a long-term deal, allowing them to spread out financial commitments and provide the flexibility needed to bolster their defense. So while fixing the defensive front is essential, managing Lamar's contract is equally critical to Baltimore's offseason strategy.