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The defensive line is where the buck stops in 2020 according to the Baltimore Ravens as they have signed three defensive tackles in the past three days. This time, the Ravens re-sign Justin Ellis to a one-year deal.
The #Ravens are bringing back DT Justin Ellis on a 1-year deal, source said. He joined them late, but they obviously liked what they saw.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 17, 2020
This is more of rotational insurance than another bonafide star a la Calais Campbell/Michael Brockers but this is still a good move. Ellis is a 350-pound run-stuffer and will continue to clog the running lanes and provide short down and distance snaps, or early downs with run-heavy offenses. Keeping Campbell’s legs’ fresh for pass-rushing on 3rd and long situations.
As Ravens fans know, the exciting free agent signings are not usually their style. It’s often the depth signings which provide input on the roster and this feels like the latter. The team wants to stick with defensive free agent building and I presume they’ll follow this up with offensive drafting to build around QB Lamar Jackson.