The NFL offseason is always an exciting time for football fans, as teams look to improve their rosters through free agency and the draft. This year, one of the most talked-about moves was the Baltimore Ravens signing former New York Jets offensive lineman John Simpson. However, not everyone is convinced that this was a smart move for the Ravens.
Recently, a Pro Football Focus analyst called out Simpson for being overpaid by the Ravens in free agency. This has caused quite a stir among fans and analysts alike, with many questioning the Ravens’ decision to sign Simpson. So, let’s take a closer look at this situation and see if the criticism is justified.
First, let’s address the elephant in the room – Simpson’s time with the Jets. During his two seasons with the team, he struggled to make an impact and was often criticized for his performance on the field. However, it’s important to remember that Simpson was a rookie when he joined the Jets and was still adjusting to the speed and physicality of the NFL. It’s not uncommon for young players to struggle in their first few years in the league, and Simpson was no exception.
Despite his struggles, the Ravens saw potential in Simpson and decided to take a chance on him. And let’s not forget, the Ravens have a history of turning struggling players into stars. Just look at Lamar Jackson, who was criticized for his passing abilities coming out of college but is now one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the league. The Ravens have a great coaching staff and a winning culture, which could be exactly what Simpson needs to reach his full potential.
Now, let’s address the issue of Simpson being overpaid. Yes, the Ravens did sign him to a three-year, $18 million contract, which may seem like a lot for a player who hasn’t proven himself in the NFL yet. However, in today’s market, this is a reasonable price for a starting offensive lineman. Plus, the Ravens have a history of getting the most out of their players, so it’s likely that Simpson will live up to his contract.
Furthermore, the Ravens were in desperate need of offensive line help after losing several key players in free agency. They needed to make a move, and Simpson was the best option available at the time. It’s not uncommon for teams to overpay for players in free agency, especially when there is a limited pool of talent available. So, while Simpson’s contract may seem like an overpay, it was a necessary move for the Ravens.
It’s also worth mentioning that the Ravens have a great track record when it comes to signing free agents. Just look at their recent signings of Mark Ingram and Earl Thomas, who both made significant contributions to the team. The Ravens have a knack for identifying players who fit their system and bringing out the best in them. There’s no reason to believe that Simpson will be any different.
In conclusion, while some may criticize the Ravens for overpaying John Simpson, it’s important to look at the bigger picture. Simpson has the potential to be a key contributor to the Ravens’ offensive line, and the team was in desperate need of help at that position. Plus, the Ravens have a proven track record of getting the most out of their players, so it’s likely that Simpson will thrive in Baltimore. Let’s give him a chance to prove his worth before labeling him as an overpaid free agent.