Ravens News 3/16: Pass Catcher Mania

To the Ravens news..

Will the Ryan Grant failed physical be a blessing in disguise? — Baltimore Beatdown

On the other hand as a plus for Baltimore, they now get their money back from the deal, and can use it on other resources. While it is unfortunate to see this happen to any player, Baltimore could turn this into a blessing in disguise. The Ravens even restructured Brandon Williams’ deal earlier on Thursday, saving $5 million in cap space. Newsome is already working on spending this extra money by bringing in now former Oakland Raiders wide receiver Michael Crabtree for a visit on Friday. The Raiders saved $7 million in cap space by cutting Crabtree after signing Jordy Nelson.

Ten thoughts on the Ravens after the first day of free agency — The Baltimore Sun

3) The four-year, $29 million deal given to Grant still seems extreme two days later. That’s hard to dispute. It also falls in line with a few of the deals other second- or third-tier receiver options got this week. Albert Wilson, who has never had more than 45 catches or 600 receiving yards in a season, will receive $8 million per year from the Miami Dolphins. Paul Richardson, who also has never had more than 45 catches in a season, will get $8 million per year from the Washington Redskins. It might not make Ravens fans feel any better, but the wide receiver market went off the rails this week.

Report: Ravens have a scheduled visit with WR Michael Crabtree — Baltimore Beatdown

Crabtree had solid production during his three seasons in Oakland. In 2017, he posted 58 receptions for 618 yards and eight touchdowns. During the 2016 season, he recorded 89 receptions for 1,003 yards and eight touchdowns In his first season with the Raiders, in 2015, Crabtree had 85 receptions for 922 yards and nine touchdowns.

Over the course of his career, Crabtree has struggled with drops. According to Fox Sports, over the last three seasons, Crabtree had 22 drops on 392 targets. Certainly his tendency to drop the football is concerning for the Ravens. However, he is a proven veteran playmaker, who would be a huge upgrade for their receiving corps.

TE Eric Ebron should be the Ravens’ focus, not WR Michael Crabtree — Baltimore Beatdown

For once, though, Baltimore should go with the younger option with more to prove. Ebron still has huge potential at only 24-years old, and it’s possible that he could truly realize it with the Ravens, in an offense that relies heavily on tight ends. Quarterback Joe Flacco loves throwing to tight ends, and Ebron could flourish with him. In both 2017 and 2016, a tight end has led Baltimore in receptions. Flacco developed a connection of trust with Dennis Pitta and Benjamin Watson, and he could do the same with Ebron, who is much younger than those two were in 2016-17.