As we know, the Baltimore Ravens have made some notable free agent signings this off season. The most important signings to discuss, are those of tight end Ben Watson, wide receiver Mike Wallace, and safety Eric Weddle.
The Ravens 2015 season was filled with disappointment, a record of 5-11, and many injuries. Some major changes need to occur if the Ravens want to get back to playoff football. These three guys, along with the other free agent signings, won’t completely change the game for the Ravens, but they will help tremendously.
Examining the Baltimore Ravens Free Agent Signings
Ben Watson
First, the signing of tight end Benjamin Watson was a smart move. Watson previously played for the New Orleans Saints, and had built up 4,963 yards on 434 receptions, along with scoring 38 touchdowns. He adds experience to the mostly young tight end group, coming in to his 13th season, and coming off of the best year of his career so far.
The only exception is Dennis Pitta, coming into his 7th season. What’s not so good, is that in the past two seasons Pitta has been sidelined twice with hip injuries, so there is still caution in him coming back. With that, the competition for the starting spot will most likely be between Dennis Pitta, Crockett Gillmore, and Watson. No matter which player is chosen to start, the number 2 and 3 spots will still play large rolls, along with Maxx Williams filling in when needed. Watson will be on the field a great amount this season
Mike Wallace
Wide receiver Mike Wallace was signed this offseason to boost the production of the group as a whole. Wallace will most likely be the third option behind Steve Smith Sr and Kamar Aiken. Wallace was a force with the Pittsburgh Steelers, then the Miami Dolphins, but showed a decline when joining the Minnesota Vikings, only having 39 receptions for 473 yards and 2 touchdowns. On his career however, he has a total of 6,307 yards on 414 receptions along with 49 touchdowns. He brings with him two seasons of 1,000+ receiving yards. Wallace is also a vertical threat, which is a bonus for Joe Flacco as he throws the deep ball often and has one of the best arms in the league.
Eric Weddle
Safety Eric Weddle is by far the biggest signing for the Ravens this offseason. He is going to boost the secondary which has struggled for many years now. Adding his skill and leadership will be a nice addition to the team. He has 19 total career interceptions, having at least 1 interception in all of his 9 seasons, excluding 2015. Keep in mind that the Ravens haven’t had a solid reliable safety since Ed Reed left back in 2012. He is excited for new start.
RAVEN BOUND!!!!!!!!!!
— Eric Weddle (@weddlesbeard) March 14, 2016
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