General Manager Eric DeCosta, much like the Baltimore Ravens fans, felt disheartened when the team’s playoff run ended in Buffalo. However, the offseason is DeCosta’s time to shine as he begins strategizing the construction of the 2025 Ravens squad. DeCosta has already voiced his confidence that tight end Mark Andrews, cornerback Marlon Humphrey, and kicker Justin Tucker will continue with the team.

With an estimated $17 million in salary-cap space, the Ravens are not in a situation where they need to offload players. The next step is deciding which of the team’s impending free agents to retain and which will enter the market. Below is a comprehensive list of the Ravens’ free agents and DeCosta’s thoughts on some of Baltimore’s key free agents: offensive linemen Ronnie Stanley and Patrick Mekari, cornerback Brandon Stephens, and fullback Patrick Ricard.

OT Ronnie Stanley & OL Patrick Mekari Stanley’s health and performance were commendable this season. He played in all 17 games, allowing just two sacks over 590 pass-blocking snaps (according to Pro Football Focus), and contributed significantly to the league’s premier rushing offense. Soon to turn 31 after free agency begins, Stanley, the Ravens’ sixth-overall draft pick in 2016, has spent all nine NFL seasons in Baltimore.

He’s a pivotal team leader, committed to mentoring younger offensive linemen and enjoys creating opportunities for Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry. Mekari demonstrated his capability as a full-time starter, initially playing right tackle before moving to left guard. His versatility remains his greatest asset, something the Ravens deeply appreciate, though he is likely to seek a secure starting position wherever he moves next. “We recognize that several players’ contracts are expiring, and we’ll deliberate on that and certainly engage in discussions with them,” DeCosta stated.

“We’ll explore the possibility of re-signing our players; we’ll consider the draft; we’ll evaluate free agency; we’ll leave no stone unturned to secure as many quality offensive linemen as possible, and I believe we have some talented young players on the roster who have already proven themselves.”

FB Patrick Ricard Since joining the Ravens in 2017 as an undrafted defensive lineman, Ricard has evolved into a five-time Pro Bowl fullback. Even within Offensive Coordinator Todd Monken’s more balanced offense, Ricard remains a vital asset. As he cleared out his locker on Monday, Ricard expressed his desire to retire as a Raven, a sentiment DeCosta shares. “I believe Pat understands our regard for him, and I would love for him to retire with the Ravens as well.

He embodies everything we stand for,” DeCosta remarked. “And he’s yet another undrafted player who has become, in my view, the best at his position. So, we’ll engage in those discussions. This isn’t the first time he’s been a free agent. He has, in fact, signed at least two contracts with us after his rookie deal, making this potentially his fourth contract with us if we manage to sign him, which is certainly our objective.”

CB Brandon Stephens Stephens transitioned from being a backup college running back to an NFL starting cornerback, a testament to his character and skill. However, Stephens has been the league’s most-targeted cornerback over the past two seasons, experiencing a challenging year. According to PFF, he allowed 72 receptions for 926 yards and five touchdowns this season. “‘B-Steve’ is a consummate professional, maintaining a positive attitude and being a supportive teammate.

He might admit he didn’t perform as well this year, but his spirit remained steadfast,” DeCosta commented. “He was consistently present, dependable, and a strong practice player, showing toughness and physicality. As a free agent, he likely feels significant pressure. We will have to see what unfolds for him. He will probably explore the market to assess his worth, but he has played a crucial role in our victories over the past couple of years, contributing significantly to our success, and I am proud of him for that.”