The other day, I posted an article listing the top five defensive players the Ravens I’d like the Ravens to go after in free agency, but as much as I love the idea of the team striving for defensive dominance once again, they also have several offensive needs. This list won’t be as pretty, but it serves a purpose to just show what is out on the market and who would be the best fit for a team looking to build around their sophomore quarterback.
Here are my top five offensive targets in free agency:
Matt Paradis, Center, Denver Broncos
To me, the signing of Matt Paradis would be a slam dunk. Not only has he not allowed a single sack in his last 24 games, but he’s only given up four sacks in his entire career. Prior to fracturing his foot in November 2018, Paradis had played in 60 straight games including the team’s 2015 Super Bowl run. Paradis would be the best option for the Ravens at center, based on his age and production. At only 29 years old, the team that signs him would certainly get some bang for their buck.
Ramon Foster, Guard, Pittsburgh Steelers
Say what you will about the Steelers, but they know how to produce wide receivers and offensive linemen. Ramon Foster, though he is 31, is arguably the best available guard on the market right now. He’s started all but four games in the past four years and has allowed only nine sacks in that period. For comparison, J.R. Sweezy, another free agent guard, has given up 14.5 sacks in the same number of games. Foster would probably look forward to the chance to take on his former team twice a year as well.
Tevin Coleman, Running Back, Atlanta Falcons
The Ravens haven’t had a true home run hitter in the backfield since Ray Rice, and even he wasn’t that explosive. Coleman would certainly alleviate that issue, not just on the ground, but in the passing game as well. The Ravens saw some success with backs like Buck Allen and Ty Montgomery, and adding a swiss-army knife back with serious speed would be a boon to the offense. He’s coming off his best season in terms of rushing yardage, an even 800 yards and four touchdowns, adding 276 yards and five touchdowns receiving. If the Ravens line can make lanes for Coleman, he could form quite the speedy duo with Lamar Jackson.
Tyrell Williams, Wide Receiver, Los Angeles Chargers
I’d rather see the Ravens build a wall to protect Jackson, but they do need weapons, so why not bring in a guy like Williams to be just that? Tyrell Williams is 6’4” and has a knack for getting separation down the field, and if he doesn’t, he can use his massive frame to outmuscle defensive backs. Though Keenan Allen and Mike Williams received most of the targets in 2018, Tyrell was able to compile 41 receptions for 653 yards (15.9 avg) and five touchdowns Jackson, I’m sure, would appreciate what Williams brings to the table in terms of catch radius as he develops into a more polished passer.
Mitch Morse, Center, Kansas City Chiefs
On the surface, some would say that Morse is a better option than Matt Paradis. Sure, Morse has only allowed 2.5 sacks in his career, but he’s only played 18 games in the last two years. He is certainly worth a shot, seeing as he’s only 27 years old, and played with dynamic offenses during his time in Kansas City. If Morse can stay on the field, he’d be an excellent option if the Ravens wanted a cheaper, younger option at center.
