OWINGS MILLS — The Ravens will have several coveted players in the free-agent market.
Pete Prisco, longtime NFL expert for CBS Sports, ranked four Ravens players in his list of “Top 100 Free Agents” for 2024.
Here’s BaltimoreSports.com’s breakdown of those players:
No. 4. Defensive tackle Justin Madubuike
Analysis: Madubuike, who was a third-round pick in 2020, led the Ravens and all defensive tackles in the NFL with 13 sacks. He also had 33 quarterback hits — ranked third in the league — and was named second-team All-Pro. His 11 straight games with at least a half-sack (Weeks 4-15) tied for the longest streak in NFL single-season history.
Possible Destination: Ravens (franchise tag)
No. 26. Inside linebacker Patrick Queen
Analysis: Queen had a solid season, finishing second on the team and 16th in the NFL with tackles. The Ravens declined Queen’s fifth-year option, so he is eligible for free agency where he could command a four-year contract worth $67 million in the free-agent market, according to projections by Spotrac. That deal would be higher than the Ravens’ comfort level, considering the team’s other needs and the restraint of the salary cap.
Possible Destination: Seahawks, Titans
No. 32. Outside linebacker Jadeveon Clowney
Analysis: The Ravens signed Clowney as a free agent after he wore out his welcome in Cleveland. Clowney, 30, has rejuvenated his career in Baltimore and tied a career-high with 9 1/2 sacks. Clowney, who was selected as the first overall pick by the Texans in the 2014 NFL draft, might test the market because he could have put himself in a position for a high payday elsewhere. However, the Ravens want to maintain their depth with edge rushers and could try to re-sign Clowney. He will attract interest from other teams.
Possible Destinations: Ravens, Bears, Lions
No. 38. Offensive guard Kevin Zeitler
Analysis: Zeitler was named to the 2024 Pro Bowl as a replacement for Kansas City Chiefs guard Joe Thuney. It was Zeitler’s first Pro Bowl appearance in his 12 years in the NFL. Zeitler earned the second-highest pass-blocking grade from Pro Football Focus of all guards this season behind Thuney. Zeitler also helped the Ravens lead the league in rushing, averaging 156.5 yards per game. However, the Ravens were not able to finalize a new contract with Zeitler by the NFL deadline for players with void years in their contracts. This means Zeitler added $4.3 million in dead money for the 2024 season. The Ravens will now likely look to Ben Cleveland or the NFL Draft to fill Zeitler’s spot on the offensive line.
Possible Destinations: Lions, Bengals