Ravens extend contract offer to RB Mark Ingram

While Ravens fans— and players — continue to hope for Le’Veon Bell to join Charm City, the Ravens are making moves for a different running back.

According to ESPN’s Dianna Russini, Baltimore has offered a contract to RB Mark Ingram.

The eight-year veteran isn’t a bad option for the Ravens as his skill in both the rushing and receiving games compliment perfectly. Also, Ingram’s game as aged rather well as he’s never had a season over 240 carries [PFR]. For reference, Le’Veon Bell has produced 240+ carry seasons in four seasons, with 2017 going for an astonishing 321 rushes [PFR].

As I mentioned, Ingram’s game has only grown in recent years. In his first five seasons, he never eclipsed 1,000 rushing yards, though he came close in 2014 (964). But in his last three seasons, Ingram has broken 1,000 rushing yards twice. He’s also become a threat in the receiving game with 905 yards and five touchdowns in the past three seasons.

Some may disagree with this decision, but I’d much rather see Ingram on the Ravens than Bell. The money isn’t there to sign Bell and if they force a mega-deal to the latter, they won’t be capable of re-signing many, if any, players this season. Plugging multiple roster holes with depth is far better than spending big money on a big contract for one running back. This could be a great fit for the team both on the field and on the budget.