The Baltimore Ravens are on the verge of losing one of their high-profile wideouts in free agency, but they could replace him with another via the NFC South if recent reports are to be believed.
According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, the Baltimore Ravens “likely won’t re-sign” Odell Beckham Jr. and added that Michael Thomas might be his replacement since he is also set to hit free agency after the New Orleans Saints let him go next week.
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Several scouts believe getting Thomas is a good move since the Baltimore Ravens value established veterans at the wide receiver position. This seems true since they signed Nelson Agholor, 30, to a one-year contract extension two weeks ago.
It’s no secret that Baltimore is looking to load up for 2024, but is Thomas the answer they’re looking for?
Is signing Michael Thomas a good move for the Baltimore Ravens?
On paper, Michael Thomas is a questionable fit for the Baltimore Ravens because he’s no longer anywhere close to his best form. After a career season in 2019, where he recorded league-highs of 149 receptions and 1,725 receiving yards, including nine touchdowns, the injury gods have not been kind to the three-time Pro Bowler.
Thomas played seven games in 2020, sat out the whole 2021 season, played three games in 2022, and then appeared in 10 games last season. In 2023, he racked up 39 receptions for 448 receiving yards and only one touchdown, which led to his scathing tirade against his quarterback, Derek Carr.
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Michael Thomas will be signed for cheap if he joins the Baltimore Ravens this summer. And with Mark Andrews and Zay Flowers being Lamar Jackson’s top targets, the former New Orleans Saint will no longer be asked to carry the offense.
As for Odell Beckham Jr., he’s been linked with a possible reunion with the Los Angeles Rams as a consolation for missing out on Mike Evans.
The Baltimore Ravens have other pressing needs in their lineup
Other than Michael Thomas, the Baltimore Ravens could look into the likes of Darnell Mooney and Calvin Ridley in the open market for wide receivers. However, they don’t have a lot of cap space to accommodate their commanding salaries.
The Baltimore Ravens have bigger needs that must be addressed, such as offensive linemen, linebackers, and a top-tier running back like Derrick Henry.
