Is the magic number for Baltimore Ravens OL Kelechi Osemele $9 million?

Although the Ravens were rumored to be making a serious run at retaining stud offensive lineman Kelechi Osemele, it was unsure what number the guard-tackle had in mind. Obviously he would want to cash in and be one of the highest paid at his position, but his position is muddled by the Ravens usage of him at left tackle for the last 4 games of 2015.

Aaron Wilson reports that Osemele wants to be the highest paid guard in the league:

Ravens G-T Kelechi Osemele expected to hit market at this point, according to sources, won't stay unless he becomes highest paid guard

— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) February 29, 2016

What number is that, and where would that put him in relation to the top left tackles in the league?

Sarah Ellison helps us out with that in today's LFW:

According to Spotrac, the top 3 contracts among NFL guards in terms of average salaries are:

Logan Mankins, Bucs: $8.5 million annually
Mike Iupati, Cardinals: $8 million annually
Marshal Yanda, Ravens: $7.98 million annually

With Yanda already on this list, the Ravens would have 2 of the 4 highest paid guards in the league. Unless they are paying Osemele to play left tackle, in which case a salary of $9 million would slot in at 12th highest paid, slotting in between Branden Albert and Andrew Whitworth, which is not an unreasonable ask for him. With the Ravens having internal options at guard with Ryan Jensen and John Urschel under contract, the Ravens would be in good shape if they can retain Osemele as a left tackle.

Hopefully the Ravens can get a contract done with Osemele before the deadline, but if not the Ravens will continue with business as usual. The hope is Osemele will be a part of the core going forward, but if not, it will be nothing new for this team.