The Baltimore Ravens: An Overview of the 2025 Offseason

The Baltimore Ravens are entering the 2025 offseason with a blend of optimism, uncertainty, and high expectations. Having made significant strides in the regular season but falling short of a deep playoff run, the team now finds itself at a critical juncture. With several key decisions ahead—on both the roster and front-office levels—the Ravens must navigate a host of challenges and opportunities to ensure they remain contenders in the highly competitive AFC North.

In this article, we’ll delve into the key areas that the Ravens need to address during the 2025 offseason, including personnel changes, coaching adjustments, free agency, the NFL draft, and the future of their franchise quarterback, Lamar Jackson. By examining these aspects, we can better understand what steps the Ravens might take to build a team capable of returning to championship contention.

1. The Lamar Jackson Saga

At the center of the Ravens’ 2025 offseason plans will undoubtedly be the future of quarterback Lamar Jackson. The dynamic and talented quarterback has been at the heart of the Ravens’ offensive success, earning MVP honors in 2019 and leading the team to the playoffs in multiple seasons. However, the 2024 campaign ended on a bitter note, as Baltimore fell short of a deep playoff run, and questions about Jackson’s future have resurfaced.

Contract Situation

Lamar Jackson is currently under contract with the Ravens, but his deal is set to expire after the 2025 season unless an extension is negotiated. The 2024 offseason saw a lengthy and somewhat contentious negotiation for a new contract, with Jackson representing himself in contract talks, which added an extra layer of complexity to the situation. While the Ravens ultimately franchise-tagged Jackson ahead of the 2024 season, there’s still uncertainty regarding how long the team will have him under center moving forward.

The Ravens must make a decision: whether to lock up Jackson for the long term, trade him for assets, or proceed with the franchise tag again. If Jackson and the Ravens can come to an agreement on a new contract, it will solidify his position as the face of the franchise for the foreseeable future. However, if negotiations stall again, the Ravens may be forced to explore other options, including trades, especially if they believe they can get a competitive return for a quarterback of Jackson’s caliber.

Offensive Scheme and Support

Jackson’s playstyle, characterized by his dynamic rushing ability and ability to extend plays, has been a defining feature of the Ravens’ offense. However, as the NFL continues to evolve, there’s been an increasing demand for Jackson to develop his passing game, particularly in the context of deep playoff games. Baltimore’s offense has shown signs of stagnation in key moments, especially against teams with strong pass rushes and defenses that can contain Jackson’s mobility.

To fully capitalize on Jackson’s potential, the Ravens will need to consider making upgrades to the offensive system. That could mean further integrating a more balanced passing attack while maintaining Jackson’s strengths on the ground. It might also include improving the surrounding talent at wide receiver and tight end to give Jackson the weapons he needs to succeed.

The Ravens will need to be strategic in adding to the offensive roster to ensure that they give Jackson the best chance to succeed in a high-stakes, playoff atmosphere.

2. Roster Needs and Free Agency

The Ravens will also have to address several roster needs heading into the 2025 offseason. Though the team has a solid foundation, certain positions could be upgraded to ensure they have a competitive edge in 2025.

Wide Receiver

One of the most glaring weaknesses in the Ravens’ roster in recent years has been the lack of a true No. 1 wide receiver. While players like Mark Andrews and Rashod Bateman have shown flashes of brilliance, the Ravens still lack a consistent and reliable deep threat. Jackson’s ability to make plays on the move would be enhanced significantly by a high-caliber receiver who can stretch the field and consistently win one-on-one matchups.

The 2025 free-agent class includes several intriguing options at the wide receiver position, and the Ravens would be wise to target a veteran presence to complement Bateman and others. Whether through free agency or the draft, Baltimore will need to make a move to add playmakers to their receiving corps.

Offensive Line

While the Ravens’ offensive line has performed admirably in recent seasons, it remains a position that requires attention. The offensive line has dealt with injuries over the past few years, and they’ll need to bolster depth to ensure Jackson has the protection he needs. In addition to ensuring Jackson has time to throw, the offensive line must continue to provide solid run blocking to sustain the Ravens’ ground game, which remains a crucial element of their offensive identity.

Defensive Depth and Edge Rushers

On the defensive side of the ball, the Ravens have long been known for their dominant defense, and the 2024 season was no different. However, heading into 2025, the team will need to improve their pass rush depth. The defense features a solid group of linebackers and secondary players, but they are in need of a reliable edge rusher who can consistently disrupt opposing quarterbacks. A top-tier pass rusher would be a game-changer and would complement the team’s defensive strength.

In addition to edge rusher, Baltimore may want to look at strengthening its depth along the defensive line and in the secondary. This would ensure that the Ravens can sustain pressure on opposing offenses throughout the season, particularly as the team faces some of the league’s most potent quarterbacks in the AFC.

Running Back Depth

Though the Ravens’ run game is powered by Jackson’s legs, they’ve traditionally had strong running backs to complement him, such as J.K. Dobbins. As Dobbins’ future with the team may be uncertain due to injury concerns, the Ravens could look to add another running back, either through the draft or free agency, to ensure depth and stability in the backfield.

3. The 2025 NFL Draft

The Ravens have done a solid job of drafting talent over the years, with several key contributors coming through the draft process. Heading into the 2025 NFL Draft, the team has several key positions to address, including wide receiver, defensive line, and edge rusher.

Wide Receiver Class

The 2025 NFL Draft is expected to feature a strong crop of wide receivers, and the Ravens could be in a prime position to add a talented prospect to their roster. With Jackson’s future still up in the air, Baltimore will likely want to invest in a young receiver who can grow with him or provide a valuable complement to Jackson’s skills. This could give the Ravens an immediate upgrade at the position.

Defensive Line and Edge Rushers

Similarly, the Ravens will need to keep an eye on the defensive line and edge rusher positions. The draft could offer the opportunity to secure a high-impact player who can immediately contribute to the team’s pass rush.

Best Available Talent

The Ravens have traditionally been a team that values best available talent, regardless of position. As such, they will likely be open to drafting the player who represents the most value, even if it’s not a glaring need. This approach has served them well in the past, and they are expected to continue that strategy in the 2025 draft.

4. Coaching Staff Changes and Adjustments

The Ravens have had stability on the coaching staff under head coach John Harbaugh, but like every team, they must continually evaluate and adjust their coaching strategy to remain competitive.

Offensive Coordinator

In particular, the Ravens’ offensive playcalling will be scrutinized this offseason. While Todd Monken was brought in as offensive coordinator in 2023, some aspects of the Ravens’ offense have been criticized for lacking creativity and predictability. Monken will need to make adjustments, particularly in how he leverages Jackson’s unique skill set. A balance between the run-heavy attack and a more dynamic passing game will be essential.

Defensive Staff

On defense, coordinator Mike Macdonald will need to continue adapting to evolving offenses, particularly in the AFC. The Ravens have always had a strong defense, but they may need to adjust to the NFL’s growing emphasis on passing attacks. The Ravens must also evaluate their ability to generate consistent pass rush pressure, particularly in big games.

5. Looking Ahead to 2025

The Ravens’ 2025 offseason will be critical in shaping their future. The team has a talented core but must address weaknesses at key positions. The decision regarding Lamar Jackson will likely define their direction, as it impacts not only the offensive philosophy but also the team’s long-term strategy. The Ravens will also need to continue making smart moves in free agency and the draft to ensure they remain competitive in the AFC North and beyond.

If they can build around Lamar Jackson, continue to enhance their roster, and adapt to the changing dynamics of the NFL, the Ravens could find themselves back in championship contention in 2025. Whether they are able to take that next step will depend on their ability to make the right decisions both on and off the field during the offseason.