With AFC rivals making significant moves as the trade deadline approaches, the Baltimore Ravens must react decisively.
Recently, the New York Jets acquired Davante Adams, and the Buffalo Bills picked up Amari Cooper, enhancing their rosters significantly. The Ravens currently hold a respectable 4-2 record, highlighted by an impressive victory over the Bills (35-10) in Week 4.
However, that matchup did not feature Cooper, who scored a touchdown in his debut with Buffalo. The competition is intensifying, and the Ravens need to keep pace.
One pressing issue for Baltimore is their struggling secondary, which ranks 31st against the pass. To address this weakness, the team should consider bringing in Budda Baker, the standout safety from the Arizona Cardinals and a six-time Pro Bowler.
Although Arizona isn’t actively shopping him, there are indications that he could be available for the right deal, making him an appealing target for the Ravens. Baker’s impressive credentials and reputation as a tenacious tackler could significantly bolster a defense that excels against the run but is vulnerable in the air.
Baker has already tallied 60 tackles through six games in 2024, demonstrating that he remains a formidable player at 28. His partnership with Kyle Hamilton could greatly enhance the Ravens’ secondary, offering both toughness and better communication on the field.
Beyond his skills, Baker embodies the competitive spirit that aligns perfectly with Baltimore’s ethos of “playing like a Raven,” making him a valuable addition not just for his play, but for his leadership.
Financially, the Ravens face challenges with only $4.1 million in cap space, but there are potential solutions. They could restructure existing contracts or negotiate with Arizona to cover part of Baker’s salary in exchange for a more favorable draft pick package.
General Manager Eric DeCosta has a track record of making bold moves when the team’s success is at stake, and the current issues in the secondary may prompt him to be even more aggressive.
As the Ravens prepare to face elite quarterbacks like Baker Mayfield, Justin Herbert, Jalen Hurts, and C.J. Stroud, they find themselves at a critical juncture. They cannot afford to remain passive while teams like the Bills and Jets strengthen their rosters.
Acquiring Budda Baker would not only address a significant need but also signal Baltimore’s commitment to competing at the highest level. With their Super Bowl aspirations hanging in the balance, the coming days could prove pivotal for the franchise.
Will DeCosta seize the opportunity, or will he gamble on the existing roster? Only time will tell as the trade deadline approaches.
