The Baltimore Ravens’ decision to move on from Odell Beckham was primarily driven by financial considerations rather than performance issues, although Beckham’s on-field performance did little to justify a hefty contract extension.
Acknowledging the necessity to let certain free agents depart, Head Coach John Harbaugh disclosed that Beckham became a casualty of the team’s financial constraints.
“I believe it was primarily a financial decision,” Harbaugh stated during the NFL Annual Meetings on Monday. “I think it had more to do with that aspect. While I wasn’t directly involved in those discussions, I’m certain that Odell Beckham Jr. and Executive Vice President & General Manager Eric DeCosta had conversations, and it became evident that it wouldn’t be feasible from a financial standpoint.
“It likely had a lot to do with our current cap situation. We’re operating within tight financial constraints, and it was probably a mutual understanding that it wouldn’t work out that way.”
Prior to parting ways with Beckham, the Ravens had already witnessed the departure of several free agents, including Geno Stone, Patrick Queen, Tyler Huntley, Kevin Zeitler, and Gus Edwards. With just $13.9 million in available cap space following Justin Madubuike’s lucrative contract extension worth $24.5 million per year, Baltimore needed to manage their finances judiciously.
Beckham’s expected salary of $15 million from 2023, to be paid in 2024, was simply unsustainable. This decision came after a season where he amassed 35 receptions for 565 yards and three touchdowns, averaging 16.1 yards per catch.
The Baltimore Ravens still have available funds to allocate towards key areas, with potential opportunities to bolster their roster in various positions. While they’ve secured Derrick Henry’s services, notable running backs like J.K. Dobbins and Dalvin Cook remain unsigned. Given Baltimore’s penchant for utilizing its running backs effectively, the Ravens are open to the possibility of re-signing either Dobbins or Cook.
“We’re looking into moving pieces around, and I’ll leave that to Eric [DeCosta] to manage. If we do decide to bring someone back, I’d be pleased with either outcome,” remarked Harbaugh. “Bringing back one of those two guys would be a positive for us. However, if circumstances don’t permit, we’re prepared to explore younger options.”
Additionally, the potential return of Jadeveon Clowney and Kyle Van Noy adds to the defensive depth for the upcoming season, as indicated by Harbaugh’s optimistic tone.
“There’s definitely optimism regarding both ‘JD’ [Clowney] and Kyle [Van Noy]. I’ve been in touch with both of them recently, and I’m hopeful that we’ll see one or both of them back,” Harbaugh expressed. “We’ve had positive discussions, and I believe there’s a chance they’ll return to bolster our defense in 2024.”
Despite the absence of a major signing like Odell Beckham, the Ravens still have resources available to reinforce their roster. With the potential return of key contributors, Baltimore remains poised to maintain its competitive edge in the upcoming season.