The Baltimore Ravens are known for their smart and strategic moves in the NFL free agency. They have always been able to find hidden gems and talented players who may not have been on everyone’s radar. And it seems like they have done it once again with their recent signing of Brandon Stephens.
Stephens, a cornerback from SMU, was selected by the Ravens in the third round of the 2021 NFL Draft. He showed great potential during his college career, but many were still surprised by the Ravens’ decision to pick him. However, Stephens has already been making a name for himself in the Ravens’ training camp, impressing coaches and teammates alike.
But with the 2025 NFL free agency just around the corner, many are wondering if the Ravens will be able to afford to keep Stephens on their roster. After all, his performance has been drawing attention from other teams, and his price tag may become too high for the Ravens to match.
But fear not, Ravens fans. There may just be a “cheaper” alternative to Brandon Stephens in the form of another rising star in the NFL.
Meet Jalen Ramsey, the cornerback for the Los Angeles Rams. Ramsey has been making waves in the league since his debut in 2016 and has solidified himself as one of the best cornerbacks in the NFL. And with his contract set to expire in 2025, he may just be the perfect fit for the Ravens.
Now, some may argue that Ramsey will come with a hefty price tag and may not be considered a “cheaper” alternative to Stephens. But let’s take a closer look at the numbers.
Currently, Stephens’ contract with the Ravens is a four-year deal worth $4.89 million, with a signing bonus of $1.19 million. On the other hand, Ramsey’s current contract with the Rams is a five-year deal worth $105 million, with a signing bonus of $25 million. While it may seem like a significant difference, Ramsey’s contract is spread over five years, making his annual salary only $21 million, which is still less than the projected salary for an elite cornerback like Stephens.
But what makes Ramsey a perfect fit for the Ravens? For starters, he is only 31 years old, which means he still has several years of prime playing left in him. He is also known for his versatility, being able to play both man and zone coverage effectively. And his physicality and tackling ability make him a valuable asset in run defense as well.
But perhaps the most significant factor that makes Ramsey a perfect fit for the Ravens is his mentality. He is a fierce competitor and a leader on and off the field. His work ethic and dedication to the game are unmatched, and he would fit right in with the Ravens’ culture of hard work and determination.
Of course, there is no guarantee that Ramsey will be available in the 2025 free agency, as the Rams may choose to extend his contract before then. But if he does become a free agent, the Ravens should not hesitate to make a move for him.
In conclusion, while Brandon Stephens may be a promising young talent for the Baltimore Ravens, it is essential to have a backup plan in case he becomes too expensive to keep. And Jalen Ramsey may just be the perfect “cheaper” alternative for the Ravens in the 2025 NFL free agency. His talent, experience, and mentality make him a perfect fit for the Ravens’ defense, and he could be the missing piece that takes them to the next level. So let’s keep our fingers crossed and hope that the Ravens will be able to secure Ramsey’s signature in 2025.