It’s the 18th season for the Ravens with head coach John Harbaugh. The coach has been through ups and downs. But his desire to succeed stands out. With QB Lamar Jackson and standout players like RB Derrick Henry, they have entered the playoffs many times. They want to continue the same rum. So, this free agency, they made a very crucial decision.

The franchise signed a 3-year, $60 million extension with OT Ronnie Stanley. Other NFL teams, like the Chiefs, the Commanders, and the Patriots, were also interested in signing him. He would have gotten more money had he entered the free agency. But the team would be glad that didn’t happen.

The average of $20 million per year is 8th among the tackles in the league. Left guard Patrick Mekari is already a free agent. With this, Lamar Jackson will have all 4 O-line starters in the fold. He also wanted to stay at the franchise. And took a 50% reduction to $7.5 million in pay last year to remain there.

In 2024, he ranked 12th in the league with a 92.5% pass block win rate among tackles. John Harbaugh said during the NFL Combine that they wanted to keep him at the Ravens. But there have been multiple injury issues. In the last 5 seasons, he has missed 36 games owing to that.

While they have now secured his future, the franchise faces another hurdle in another player. It’s their kicker, Justin Tucker.

Ravens seeking a replacement for Lamar Jackson’s teammate

Amid this drama, they have to draft a kicker in the 2025 NFL Draft. Their long-time kicker was hit with allegations of s—– misconduct. The league might take many months to decide his future. So, they need to have a close look at their future.

Regarded as one of the greatest kickers, he has made the NFL record for the longest field goal at 66 yards and has an 89.1% career field goal percentage. Justin Tucker has denied the charges twice. But the Ravens are looking for a suitable replacement in the coming draft.

“I’d say the kicker position would have been a priority no matter what. Justin is our kicker, we love him, and I always would have expected him to keep going forever. But nobody goes forever,” said the head coach while talking about their plans.

Florida State’s Ryan Fitzgerald, Arizona’s Tyler Loop, Miami’s Andres Borregales, and Pittsburgh’s Ben Sauls are the top 4 prospects. Senior special teams coach Randy Brown is comparing the college players. But they have a vast place to fill. The only thing bothering them is the lower FG scoring rate of rookies (81.8%) compared to the league average (84.4%).

Lamar Jackson is patiently waiting for the season to start. He would be fired up to win his first Super Bowl. Can he achieve it this year? We’ll find out soon.