The Ravens, who topped the league in rushing yards in the 2023 season, may undergo significant changes at the running back position in the near future. With several veteran options becoming free agents, Baltimore is poised to be a contender for signing a notable addition, according to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler. Both of the Ravens’ primary running backs from the 2023 season, J.K. Dobbins and Gus Edwards, are impending free agents, as are veteran acquisitions Melvin Gordon and Dalvin Cook, presenting the team with several decisions to make at the position before the start of the new league year.
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Of particular interest is Dobbins’ situation, given his promising performances when healthy. Despite missing significant time due to injuries, including an ACL tear in 2021 and an Achilles tear in Week 1 of the recent season, Dobbins has demonstrated his potential with 13 total touchdowns in 24 regular-season games and an impressive 5.8 yards per carry average. Although Baltimore had expressed interest in extending his contract, his value may have diminished due to his injury history and the current market conditions for running backs.
Edwards, who took on a larger role in Dobbins’ absence, achieved career highs in carries, scrimmage yards, and touchdowns in 2023. However, his yards per carry average declined to 4.1, potentially limiting his market to that of a short-yardage specialist. Meanwhile, Justice Hill remains under contract for 2024, providing depth as a third-down back and special teams contributor. Additionally, undrafted rookie Keaton Mitchell, who showed promise before suffering an ACL injury, is expected to play a complementary role once he has recovered.
While Baltimore was linked to Derrick Henry during the trade deadline, no deal materialized. However, with Henry and other accomplished running backs like Saquon Barkley, Josh Jacobs, and Tony Pollard hitting free agency, the Ravens could explore their options in the market. Despite having financial considerations such as potential franchise tagging for Justin Madubuike and contract negotiations with Patrick Queen, the Ravens are in a relatively favorable financial position and could be active in pursuing a running back upgrade.
