A few weeks back I wrote a blog titled, “Could Forsett Become Expendable?” At the time, it was simply a question. Javorius Allen had just come of an impressive game in his starting debut against the Browns, and he appeared to be a big part of the future of Baltimore’s backfield. It was against the Browns, however, and their 32nd ranked rushing defense. Buck Allen would have to prove he could thrive against better defenses before dismissing Forsett.
Well, Buck has risen to the challenge. He has proved to be a force not just in the running game, but also one of the steadiest targets for whoever has been under center for the Ravens. With only five starts under his belt, he’s already caught 39 passes for 321 yards and two touchdowns. With his sample size now much larger, and still very impressive, it’s in the Ravens best interest to move on from Justin Forsett after 2015.
It won’t be easy. Forsett was a great story in 2014. He’s one of the most likable guys on the team. After bouncing around the league year after year for most of his career, he finally found a home in Baltimore. It was refreshing to read stories about a player spending time with his family during his bye week changing diapers and reading bedtime stories instead of getting arrested for bar fights and DUI’s. He was an important figure in the Ravens’ locker room considering all the turmoil and scrutiny the team faced in their 2014 campaign.
Unfortunately, the business side of things will kick in this offseason. The Ravens have proved countless times in their history that they won’t let emotions and past performances dictate the roster moves they make. Despite signing a 3 year $9 million dollar contract, Forsett has no guaranteed money following the 2015 season. By releasing Forsett, the Ravens could potentially save $2.3 million all-important Cap dollars.
John Harbaugh’s squad has a lot of needs but running back isn’t one of them. It’s one of the deepest position groups on the team. Ozzie Newsome has invested two mid-round picks in Buck Allen and Lorenzo Taliaferro. And despite Terrance West struggling with Cleveland and Tennessee, the 2014 third round pick has looked rejuvenated since getting his opportunity in the Ravens backfield. He has served as a nice complementary piece and change-of-pace back. Maybe knowing Baltimore could be his last opportunity in the NFL has served as motivation. Whatever the reason is, he’s been a pleasant surprise. Throw a healthy Lorenzo Taliaferro in the mix, and the Ravens backfield becomes a crowded one, even without Forsett.
Ozzie Newsome will have a lot of work to do come this offseason. The Ravens need playmakers on offense and defense. Wide receiver remains a huge question mark with the uncertainty regarding Steve Smith Sr. and the lost year for Breshad Perriman. The secondary will again need improvements after a disappointing season. And pass rusher becomes a need even if Terrell Suggs returns. There’s no way to know what to expect from him after his second achilles tear in three years, and Elvis Dumervil will turn 32 in January.
The Ravens will need to prioritize and there are difficult decisions that will need to be made. Unfortunately letting go of Justin Forsett should be one of them.
