The way forward for Baltimore Ravens tight finish Mark Andrews is rising extra unsure as commerce rumors proceed to swirl round considered one of Lamar Jackson’s most trusted weapons. NFL insider Ian Rapoport lately shared perception into the state of affairs, pointing to each monetary components and the rise of a youthful expertise on Baltimore’s roster.
Ian Rapoport Sheds Mild on Mark Andrews’ Unsure Future Amid Commerce Chatter
Talking about Andrews’ state of affairs on NFL Community, Rapoport mentioned, “I’ll give it that it is extremely, very a lot up within the air and, you realize, GMs speak about balls being within the air, proper? And the explanation they are saying that’s as a result of plenty of issues that might occur.”
He additionally identified that Isaiah Doubtless, a youthful tight finish on a rookie deal, appeared like a real No. 1 possibility when Andrews was sidelined.
“You’ve gotten Isaiah Doubtless, actually good younger participant, rising younger participant who, when Andrews was not on the sphere, appeared like a primary tight finish, going to make simply $3 million subsequent yr.”
Rapoport additionally famous how entrance places of work are likely to suppose long run and infrequently favor youthful, cheaper gamers they will prolong early.
“Groups usually wish to lock up these form of gamers to long-term profitable extensions, make certain they’re taken care of and transfer on from there.”
That may very well be the case with Doubtless, probably main the Ravens to half methods with Andrews, whose contract is about to depend for $16.9 million towards the cap this season. Nevertheless, Baltimore may probably save $11 million by buying and selling or releasing him.
The hypothesis is selecting up steam partly as a result of the tight finish class within the upcoming NFL Draft isn’t seen as particularly sturdy.
“Little doubt he’s going to have some commerce worth in a draft when there’s not possibly a ton of actually, actually good high-level tight ends,” Rapoport mentioned. “I wouldn’t be stunned based mostly on what I’m listening to right here, Mike, if some group does are available and make a proposal the Ravens can’t refuse, regardless that it is extremely clear Mark Andrews means rather a lot to them they usually actually, actually worth the particular person and the participant.”
Normal supervisor Eric DeCosta echoed a cautious tone when requested about Andrews’ future in 2025.
“I by no means know what’s going to occur,” DeCosta mentioned, including, “And I’d by no means need to say this or that. However I can let you know this: Mark Andrews is a warrior. He’s performed his butt off for us.”
Regardless of Andrews’ accolades — three Professional Bowls, a first-team All-Professional nod in 2021, and 51 profession touchdowns — a pricey drop within the Divisional Spherical loss to Buffalo has clouded his standing. The Ravens might quickly face a giant determination on whether or not to maintain a franchise cornerstone or go together with a youthful, more cost effective possibility at tight finish.
