Matt Williamson of ESPN Insider, gave grades to every NFL team on their current results in free agency, and gave the Baltimore Ravens a "C." Obviously, Williamson is basing his grades for the Ravens as well as the rest of the league on what they've done, or in Baltimore's case, what they haven't done over the first two-plus weeks since free agency began on March 13th.
The main reason he gives the Ravens the low grade is because of the number of players that have left the team as opposed to what they have brought in so far. The Ravens lost five players and while they brought in five, three were re-signed and the two outside free agents are primarily special teams players.
However, Ravens fans know the team will go by the mantra of "Next Man Up," and just find the next guy to "plug-and-play" and not miss a beat. Here's what Williams said in defense of his "C" grade given to the Ravens:
Key additions: RB Ray Rice (franchised), C Matt Birk (re-signed), LB Jameel McClain (re-signed)
Key losses: G Ben Grubbs, LB Jarret Johnson, DT Cory Redding, S Tom Zbikowski, WR Lee Evans
Analysis: Rice is one of the most important players to his respective offense in the NFL. There was no way that Baltimore would allow him to hit the open market. Getting Birk back also should have short-term dividends. The Ravens lost several starters to other clubs over the past few weeks and will need younger players to step up in their place, but this remains a very strong roster.
Grade: C