Free Agency Targets

[rmcjacket23]

The problem here is that you're only thinking about the big names and higher priced free agents.  I only mentioned those names to show Ozzie isn't afraid to spend a little.  You're ignoring the fact that we don't even go after cheap UFAs.  Just looking at last season, we didn't we go after a proven former Baltimore player who was a free agent like Josh Wilson but go after Aaron Ross?  Wilson signed a 1 year deal for under a million.   The reason is, Wilson was a UFA and Ross was cut.  

 

This is just an example as I know Wilson was an UFA off the top of my head since I had a discussion on it last year.  But again, it's not only about the expensive guys.  Feel free to name the last 5 cheap UFAs we've signed.

 

Dumervil and the Smith's actually back up my point.  Ozzie isn't afraid to go after names and spend a little money......so long as they are released/cut by their teams.

Correct, but you are essentially echoing what I already said... Ozzie WILL sign a UFA if that player is perceived as upper-echelon enough that we couldn't replace him with one of our comp picks. There are people saying that we wouldn't sign a Brandon Marshall because we want the comp pick... that's not logical.

 

I agree that we don't sign "cheap" FAs because of the comp pick process, mostly because the FO thinks they can using a comp pick and get the same level player anyway, so it doesn't benefit them to sign the UFA. Its why we sign guys like the Smith's and not some cheap, borderline NFL-talent corner, because we can't find a replacement for the Smith's in the fourth round of the draft most likely.

[Drew P]

5 mil in cap space means filling holes not adding quality FA's. It will take some work by the FO to clear up space if they want to add quality names.

[BMORE21]

we can easily pick up vernon davis.. He would love to come here knowing he will get the ball.

[BMORE21]

IMO chris culliver and vernon davis are the cheapest/best players we can get

[Purple_City39]

Correct, but you are essentially echoing what I already said... Ozzie WILL sign a UFA if that player is perceived as upper-echelon enough that we couldn't replace him with one of our comp picks. There are people saying that we wouldn't sign a Brandon Marshall because we want the comp pick... that's not logical.

 

I agree that we don't sign "cheap" FAs because of the comp pick process, mostly because the FO thinks they can using a comp pick and get the same level player anyway, so it doesn't benefit them to sign the UFA. Its why we sign guys like the Smith's and not some cheap, borderline NFL-talent corner, because we can't find a replacement for the Smith's in the fourth round of the draft most likely.

I'm not quite sure what your current stance is.  Yesterday you were saying you seriously doubt Ozzie has ever not signed a player due to comp picks, now you're saying they don't sign "cheap" free agents because of the comp pic process.  The Brandon Marshall concept doesn't apply because if we get him this offseason, it means he was cut or traded for and thus, not affect comp picks.

 

My original stance was that Ozzie does not go after UFAs often, regardless of whether they are expensive or cheap, because of how the affect the comp pick process.  You disagreed with that here

 

 

2. I think the notion that Ozzie doesn't sign UFAs because of comp picks is a myth. Historically, comp picks don't amount to anything, and I seriously doubt Ozzie has ever once not signed a player solely because of a comp pick. If we don't sign a guy, its because his price is too high or we simply don't want him.

 

Do you see how these two bolded sentences contradict?  If you're now agreeing that Ozzie does avoid UFAs due to his love of comp picks then we are in agreement.  A franchise that has had the most comp picks since 94, while not being established until 96, says a lot

[Tru11]

IMO chris culliver and vernon davis are the cheapest/best players we can get

 

based on?

 

davis will probably be the best TE in FA if he gets cut.

I doubt he will come cheap unless he is willing to take less to be here.

 

culliver maybe although there should be a market for him as well.

[berad]

Oher wouldn't be bad depth at all for minimum. I mean, Jah Reid was behind Hurst at tackle this season.

[rmcjacket23]

I'm not quite sure what your current stance is.  Yesterday you were saying you seriously doubt Ozzie has ever not signed a player due to comp picks, now you're saying they don't sign "cheap" free agents because of the comp pic process.  The Brandon Marshall concept doesn't apply because if we get him this offseason, it means he was cut or traded for and thus, not affect comp picks.

 

My original stance was that Ozzie does not go after UFAs often, regardless of whether they are expensive or cheap, because of how the affect the comp pick process.  You disagreed with that here

 

 

 

Do you see how these two bolded sentences contradict?  If you're now agreeing that Ozzie does avoid UFAs due to his love of comp picks then we are in agreement.  A franchise that has had the most comp picks since 94, while not being established until 96, says a lot

Perhaps we are misunderstanding each other...

 

My entire post and process of posts was related to the fact that people said we will not sign Brandon Marshall because of comp picks. I said that there's probably never been a single time where Ozzie didn't sign a higher quality UFA because of the comp pick process. My premise is that there's nothing to gain from getting a comp pick instead of signing that player if the comp pick you are getting is incredibly unlikely to contribute in the manner that the quality UFA would. That is why, when players like Daryl Smith or Dumervil become available in FA, Ozzie has never been shy of signing these players, because the comp pick doesn't mean jack when compared to what those players can bring.

 

Like anything else, its an assessment of whether or not the UFA we would sign could be replaced by a comp pick or not. For a large amount of the cheaper UFAs, the answer would probably be no, hence why we tend to not target those.

 

I understand we've led the league in comp picks, and I'm sure that's by design. But keep in mind... that also correlates with the fact that the Ravens rarely have a bunch of excess cap space, thus, signing UFAs on an annual basis isn't easy anyway. I couldn't tell you the last time we had anything even resembling quality cap space available ot spend on players, and that's completely fine, because most of the good teams in this league spend close to the cap.

[GrimCoconut]

Perhaps we are misunderstanding each other...

My entire post and process of posts was related to the fact that people said we will not sign Brandon Marshall because of comp picks. I said that there's probably never been a single time where Ozzie didn't sign a higher quality UFA because of the comp pick process. My premise is that there's nothing to gain from getting a comp pick instead of signing that player if the comp pick you are getting is incredibly unlikely to contribute in the manner that the quality UFA would. That is why, when players like Daryl Smith or Dumervil become available in FA, Ozzie has never been shy of signing these players, because the comp pick doesn't mean jack when compared to what those players can bring.

Like anything else, its an assessment of whether or not the UFA we would sign could be replaced by a comp pick or not. For a large amount of the cheaper UFAs, the answer would probably be no, hence why we tend to not target those.

I understand we've led the league in comp picks, and I'm sure that's by design. But keep in mind... that also correlates with the fact that the Ravens rarely have a bunch of excess cap space, thus, signing UFAs on an annual basis isn't easy anyway. I couldn't tell you the last time we had anything even resembling quality cap space available ot spend on players, and that's completely fine, because most of the good teams in this league spend close to the cap.

Your point about Daryl Smith and Dumervil is a little confusing. Daryl was actually signed after June 1st, I believe, which actually allowed us to sign him without losing a compensatory pick. I honestly think we waited because of the compensatory pick. If we signed him sooner then we would've lost a compensatory selection. Dumervil didn't affect our compensatory picks because he was cut.

[Purple_City39]

Perhaps we are misunderstanding each other...

 

My entire post and process of posts was related to the fact that people said we will not sign Brandon Marshall because of comp picks. I said that there's probably never been a single time where Ozzie didn't sign a higher quality UFA because of the comp pick process. My premise is that there's nothing to gain from getting a comp pick instead of signing that player if the comp pick you are getting is incredibly unlikely to contribute in the manner that the quality UFA would. That is why, when players like Daryl Smith or Dumervil become available in FA, Ozzie has never been shy of signing these players, because the comp pick doesn't mean jack when compared to what those players can bring.

 

Like anything else, its an assessment of whether or not the UFA we would sign could be replaced by a comp pick or not. For a large amount of the cheaper UFAs, the answer would probably be no, hence why we tend to not target those.

 

I understand we've led the league in comp picks, and I'm sure that's by design. But keep in mind... that also correlates with the fact that the Ravens rarely have a bunch of excess cap space, thus, signing UFAs on an annual basis isn't easy anyway. I couldn't tell you the last time we had anything even resembling quality cap space available ot spend on players, and that's completely fine, because most of the good teams in this league spend close to the cap.

Ok, then this does clear up a few things.  For one, anybody that thinks we'll overlook Marshall to keep a comp pick is incredibly mistaken for two reasons.  1. as you said, the talent in a 3rd, 4th, or 5th round comp pick will likely not match that of Marshall.  2. If we get him it's by way of trade or he was cut so it wouldn't affect the comp picks anyway.

 

Also as GrimCoconut stated, neither Smith nor Dumervil actually affected the comp picks due to when Smith was signed and that Dumervil was released by Denver.

[BMORE21]

based on?

 

davis will probably be the best TE in FA if he gets cut.

I doubt he will come cheap unless he is willing to take less to be here.

 

culliver maybe although there should be a market for him as well.

vernon is the best TE,but his numbers have declined. He will not be going any where he thinks he will not be used

[Tru11]

vernon is the best TE,but his numbers have declined. He will not be going any where he thinks he will not be used

 

Well here he would be blocking more then being a receiver though.

 

we aren't a pass happy team and I doubt we will ever become 1.

[usmccharles]

No thank you for Davis, has talent but he will be overpriced.

[RaineV1]

Well here he would be blocking more then being a receiver though.

 

we aren't a pass happy team and I doubt we will ever become 1.

I doubt he would mainly be blocking here. The Ravens certainly haven't keep Pitta and Owen Daniels around for their blocking ability.

[Alexir]

This gets a neg...

This got a +1

 

 

What the hell is wrong with you people?

 

Haha I know right? Good think I don't care about negs and +1. Not like I can exchange them on the store to buy merchandise or something haha

[Purple_City39]

Well here he would be blocking more then being a receiver though.

 

we aren't a pass happy team and I doubt we will ever become 1.

Don't be too sure.  Trestman has a history of passing a good amount more than running.  

Besides, if Davis comes here he'll be a receiving option.  Daniels may not be resigned and Pitta has already dislocated his hip twice, once without contact, so he can't be relied on too heavily.  That just leaves Gilmore, who I like a lot

[cushrinada1986]

Mike Oher was just cut. Would only re-sign him for league minimum but he would make a great back up since he was our starter just 2 years ago lol

Only way I could see him back on our team is if he could be an effective OG. Gets beat too often by speed rushers. Still remember all those flags he got us...

[Tru11]

RaineV1, on 06 Feb 2015 - 9:23 PM, said:

I doubt he would mainly be blocking here. The Ravens certainly haven't keep Pitta and Owen Daniels around for their blocking ability.

 

his best attribute is his blocking ability.

neither could be said about pitta or daniels but that's why we had Gilmore subbed in or Dickson or bajema in the past.

 

ravens do run the ball and most of the time when they run in there is a TE or 2 in the line up.

 

he would get his targets here as a receiver but he will probably block more then be on the end of the catch.

 

 

Purple_City39, on 06 Feb 2015 - 9:50 PM, said:

Don't be too sure.  Trestman has a history of passing a good amount more than running.  

Besides, if Davis comes here he'll be a receiving option.  Daniels may not be resigned and Pitta has already dislocated his hip twice, once without contact, so he can't be relied on too heavily.  That just leaves Gilmore, who I like a lot

 

well if trestman goes pass happy I guess harbaugh lied when he said he wanted to carry on from where kubiak left off.

 

I never said he wont be a receiving option.

if davis comes here he would be an every down TE like he was in San fran which would involved more blocking then actually getting targets.

 

if like you said he wants to be more of a receiver then he is better off with a team who likes to way pass more then they run.

Edited February 7, 2015 by Tru11

[alkutbay]

What about Tyvon Branch if he were cut but the Raiders? He holds 9 mil cap hit

[PurpleCity5]

What about Tyvon Branch if he were cut but the Raiders? He holds 9 mil cap hit

I like Branch but his durability issues are a serious concern, I think a 1YR Deal would be the most likely possibility but even at that, you'd have to be cautious if he does play at a high level and hope he'd stay healthy. 

 

Also, that would add more mystery to what we'd do with Elam, Branch is a SS, not sure if he could be moved to FS, then again, he's a smart veteran player. 

Edited February 7, 2015 by PurpleCity5

[B-more Ravor]

And I just read this awhile ago from his blog

http://russellstreetreport.com/2015/02/06/baltimore-ravens-salary-cap/complete-ravens-salary-cap-update/

 

The Salary Cap looks, in his words, "bleak."  He's provided a meticulous analysis of our cap situation and it looks there'll be a lot of restructures and cuts just to get under the cap.  It's not clear how much the league will adjust the final cap number (+7mil?) but he didn't factor that in. Unless that number goes up significantly there won't be a whole lot of money left to sign any high profile FA.

 

 

LOL, to be clear, "bleak" was an editor's embellishment that has been removed! 

[reed20]

He's currently a free agent now. 

 

Why? Because we can get him for cheap and he's still a good running back. He hasn't just lost his skill like people think. He's been in bad situations, team, system, etc. He'd thrive again with us. And if he doesn't we really don't lose anything out of it since we're getting him for cheap.

Edited February 16, 2015 by reed20

[reed20]

Forsett and CJ are the same age and CJ would be cheaper and running behind yanda very well could look like the cj2k of old.

[rmcjacket23]

Forsett and CJ are the same age and CJ would be cheaper and running behind yanda very well could look like the cj2k of old.

I'd give Ray Rice a better chance of being good than CJ. Age doesn't really matter... its usage.

 

Forsett has been in the league 7 years, and has 582 carries (about 81 carries a season on average).

 

CJ has been in the league 7 years, and he has 1,897 carries (about 271 carries a season on average).

 

A grand canyon level difference between the two in my opinion.

[Bobby]

Bostick was cut by the Packers - I suppose punishment for the onside kick mistake in the playoffs - but he could be an option in case Pitta is not able to return or of Daniels leaves.  We got Jacoby after he was cut for a bad play and that worked out pretty well for us...may be worth a look...

[cushrinada1986]

I do agreed with this; our offense are young and improved; next season they will be the beast after having playoff experience and performance  under their belts...

 

However, we really need a legit #1 WR; it's either through the draft and FA.

Having Cromartie would help mentor wise to Jimmy as well as give Suggs and Doom time to get to the QB. I would still draft a CB in the later rounds(Ladarious Gunter) so that they can sit in the wings and learn. Having another long press CB to pick up when Cromartie departs would be the perfect transition. 

[balfan23]

And I just read this awhile ago from his blog

http://russellstreetreport.com/2015/02/06/baltimore-ravens-salary-cap/complete-ravens-salary-cap-update/

 

The Salary Cap looks, in his words, "bleak."  He's provided a meticulous analysis of our cap situation and it looks there'll be a lot of restructures and cuts just to get under the cap.  It's not clear how much the league will adjust the final cap number (+7mil?) but he didn't factor that in. Unless that number goes up significantly there won't be a whole lot of money left to sign any high profile FA.

This is a concept that seems to escape many in Ravens nation. The read something like this, say, "that kinda sucks" ... then go on to wishing for the impossible, as far as retaining and bringing in Free Agents. 

[Pirate88]

I know there is a thread for free agent positions so I apologize in advance if this thread needs to be merged. OK the Ravens coaching and leadership and strict discipline and tough no nonsense style and surrounding talent is an asset and natural Resource as well as having an established strong armed accurate franchise QB. So who are some of the players flying under the radar that would be much better playing for the ravens. Also how about players you feel that are solid starters but flying somewhat under the radar?? Be sure to include players that their teams may be willing to deal away that would play much better in our system. Feel free to include players with character concerns that the ravens strong coaching and veteran leadership and winning environment could give focus and stability to.

Before I list any players to consider, I have a somewhat unique take on character concerns. There are all kinds and levels of character concerns. There's isolated incidents where a good friendly person made a spur of moment mistake he likely won't repeat. Then there's just total nutjobs!! There's players that fail drug tests due to marijuana or alcohol. Habits that are more controllable. Then there's PED use. Who really knows how many players use PEDs in the NFL??!! My educated guess is at least half. So why treat the ones caught like hardened criminals ??!! And aderall a player could just get a prescription to keep from getting suspended again. Josh Gordon is facing a yrs suspension for traces of alcohol when most players have drinks after every game and off days. And you gotta love how the NFL catches just enough players to make it look like they are trying while certain players remain exempt and untouchable!! They learned that from WWE. Anyways I have zero problem with giving players another chance as long as coaching feels they are motivated to stay focused and work hard. Far to much is made of a bar fight and only is under a microscope when that player is successful and is a big reason his team is successful. Opposing teams management and fans point fingers when they are jealous of success!! They know full well they wished they could have kept those players straight and won!! HYPOCRITES!! Patsie fans angered at losses to the Ravens are the first to point and slander yet they all defended a psychopath murderer and sign players with failed drug tests and PED tests. If we sign or trade for Daryl Washington, Colt Lyera or my favorite Justin Blackmon and keep those players straight and we win the Superbowl I'm sure there will be crying and complaints. However my response would be FINE, we throw away the trophy if every team in the NFL benches every player that's ever had a character issue and every player is administered a strict drug and PED test and cut every player that fails. Watch how fast everybody shuts their mouth!!

Anyways my under radar players or somewhat under the radar that would be far better players as a raven

Derrick Morgan-

Ron Parker

Jermaine Gresham

Rob Housler

Henry Melton

Patrick Robinson

Shereece Wright

Sean Weatherspoon

Denarius Moore

Jabaal Sheard

Kenny Britt

Some trade candidates that teams may be willing to part with that have underperformed on bad teams are Barkevious Mingo,Dion Jordan and maybe Mohammed Sanu since he is unhappy with blame and slander from fans.

Character concern players I like to see ravens consider signing or trading for are Justin Blackmon,Colt Lyera, Daryl Washington, and Aldon Smith. Maybe even Greg Hardy if he is a bargain or signs a one year cheap prove himself deal, however I'm not sure he can play rush OLB. Aldon Smith is the player who at the top of his game is as fierce and explosive as ANY edge rusher in the nfl!!

Not saying we should consider or even need some of these players. I'm just throwing out names I feel are under the radar to some degree but may turn out to be difference makers on the Ravens. There are others I can't think of at the minute but I'm looking forward to hearing some ideas for under the radar or underachieving players that could be great when surrounded by Ravens coaching, discipline, leadership, work ethic and Winning Atmosphere.

Edited February 17, 2015 by Pirate88

[platinumxx2]

S Thomas DeCoud just got cut by the Panthers. Could be good vet addition with Stewart and Miles as FA's.

[Sami84]

S Thomas DeCoud just got cut by the Panthers. Could be good vet addition with Stewart and Miles as FA's.

 

no..

 

we had an option last year with him and no then..no now