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The Ravens are still on the hunt for a veteran wide receiver to pair with their MVP-winning quarterback Lamar Jackson. On Friday, one of his most trusted targets since his rookie season found a new home according to reports.
And in a non-trade moves today, the Raiders are signing former Ravens’ WR Willie Snead to a one-year contract, per his agent @DrewJRosenhaus.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 26, 2021
And the Bears are signing back free-agent CB Artie Burns to a one-year deal, per @DrewJRosenhaus.
Snead is the Ravens’ seventh unrestricted free agent to sign with another team thus far this offseason and will be joining former Pro Bowl pass rusher Yannick Ngakoue in Las Vegas. He’ll be the veteran leader in the Raiders’ young wide receiver room that includes 2020 first-round pick Henry Ruggs, 2020 third-rounder Bryan Edwards, and standout slot option Hunter Renfrow.
The seven-year veteran had been with the Ravens since 2018 and caught 126 passes for 1,422 yards receiving and nine touchdowns in three seasons. His statistics don’t tell the story of his impact and contributions to the offense and team as a whole during his time in Baltimore.
In addition to being a reliable chain-mover with sure hands and a knack for finding soft spots in zone coverage, Snead was instrumental in the Ravens’ revolutionary rushing attack that has been shattering records since Jackson’s first year as the full-time starter. He is an excellent downfield blocker, was used in motion to help diagnose man or zone coverage, and was a strong veteran presence in the locker room for a very young offense.
Snead sounded like he knew his time with the Ravens had come to an end with some of his remarks after the season ended but was extremely grateful for it.
“I really appreciate this organization for the chance they gave me after New Orleans. It’s been an incredible three years,” said Snead. “I don’t know what my future is going to look like after tonight, but I’m very hopeful and thankful for everything Baltimore has given me.”
He will likely benefit from a fresh start elsewhere and will get just that with the Raiders who also value having a strong rushing attack but are more balanced on offense. Vegas had a more dynamic and explosive passing game than the Ravens last season finishing in the top 10 in passing yards, yards per attempt, and yards per completion despite ranking 21st in attempts.