The Baltimore Ravens are about to lose one of their high-profile wide receivers to free agency, but if recent claims are to be believed, they could replace him with another from the NFC South.
According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, the Baltimore Ravens “likely won’t re-sign” Odell Beckham Jr., and Michael Thomas might be his replacement because he is also due to hit free agency after the New Orleans Saints released him next week.
Several evaluators believe Thomas is a strong fit for the Baltimore Ravens, who prize proven veterans at wide receiver. This appears to be true, since they signed Nelson Agholor, 30, to a one-year contract deal two weeks ago.
It’s no secret that Baltimore is attempting to stock up for 2024, but is Thomas the answer?
Is signing Michael Thomas a good move for the Baltimore Ravens?
On paper, Michael Thomas is a problematic fit for the Baltimore Ravens because he is no longer in peak form. After a stellar season in 2019, in which he set league records with 149 receptions and 1,725 receiving yards, including nine touchdowns, the three-time Pro Bowler has been plagued by injuries.
Thomas played seven games in 2020, sat out the entire 2021 season, played three games in 2022, and then appeared in ten games last season. In 2023, he had 39 receptions for 448 receiving yards and one score, prompting his blistering diatribe against his quarterback, Derek Carr.
If Michael Thomas signs with the Baltimore Ravens this summer, he will be paid a low salary. And, with Mark Andrews and Zay Flowers as Lamar Jackson’s primary targets, the former New Orleans Saint will no longer be expected to carry the offense.
Odell Beckham Jr. has been connected to a reunion with the Los Angeles Rams as a way to make up for missing out on Mike Evans.
The Baltimore Ravens have other pressing needs in their lineup
In addition to Michael Thomas, the Baltimore Ravens may consider wide receivers Darnell Mooney and Calvin Ridley on the open market. However, they don’t have much cap space to cover their high pay.
The Baltimore Ravens have bigger needs to fill, such as offensive linemen, linebackers, and a top-tier running back like Derrick Henry.
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