Several Ravens are mentioned as possible draft-day trade candidates.

The NFL Draft represents a critical moment for teams to shape the future of their rosters. For teams like the Baltimore Ravens, the draft is an opportunity to infuse fresh talent into a franchise with championship aspirations. However, it’s not just about picking players from the available pool; it’s also about moving assets and navigating trade opportunities to secure the best possible future for the team. Trade candidates are always a hot topic before and during the draft, as teams look to maximize their draft picks or acquire players who fit into their long-term plans.

The Baltimore Ravens have been a perennial contender in the AFC, but their roster, like every other team, has its weaknesses and areas that need upgrading. While the team’s focus is on solidifying their foundation, several players could be trade candidates as they look to move into a better position in the draft or bolster certain positions for a title run. This article examines potential Ravens trade candidates and provides insight into how such moves could impact the team, their cap situation, and their future aspirations.

The Trade Candidates

Before diving into specific players, it’s crucial to understand the factors that make a player a viable trade candidate. In most cases, these players have contract situations that the team may be looking to move away from, underperforming seasons that may prompt a change, or assets that could yield a substantial return in a trade scenario. For the Ravens, the following players have been discussed as possible candidates for trade:

1. Lamar Jackson (QB)
2. Marlon Humphrey (CB)
3. Rashod Bateman (WR)
4. Calais Campbell (DE)
5. Patrick Queen (ILB)
6. Gus Edwards (RB)

Each of these players brings a unique set of circumstances to the table that makes their potential trade value intriguing.

1. Lamar Jackson (QB)

Lamar Jackson is, without a doubt, one of the most polarizing figures in the NFL. His dynamic playing style, characterized by his ability to make plays both in the air and on the ground, has made him one of the most exciting quarterbacks to watch. However, his unique skill set, combined with his contract situation, makes him a potential trade candidate.

Contract Situation and Trade Implications

As of the 2025 offseason, Lamar Jackson’s future with the Ravens has been the subject of considerable speculation. Jackson’s contract negotiations have been contentious, and despite a highly successful 2019 MVP season, the Ravens and Jackson have struggled to reach an agreement that satisfies both sides. If the Ravens do not feel confident in their ability to re-sign Jackson long-term, they may explore the possibility of trading him to another team that is in need of a quarterback.

The value of Jackson as a trade asset would be immense. He is one of the most electric players in the NFL and would demand a significant return. The Ravens could potentially receive multiple high draft picks or young, emerging players to help their team rebuild around the draft. With teams like the Indianapolis Colts, Atlanta Falcons, and others in need of a franchise quarterback, Jackson could land a huge return if he were to be moved.

Impact of the Trade

Trading Jackson would undoubtedly leave a massive hole at quarterback for the Ravens, but it would free up significant cap space and provide an opportunity to build around a new signal-caller. Depending on the trade package, the Ravens could land a top-tier quarterback prospect or use the draft capital to fill other holes on the roster. The impact would likely be felt most on offense, but the team could pivot toward a more traditional offensive system with a new quarterback under center.

2. Marlon Humphrey (CB)

Marlon Humphrey is widely regarded as one of the best cornerbacks in the NFL. His ability to lock down top receivers and create turnovers makes him a valuable asset for the Ravens’ defense. However, as with any high-profile player, there are factors that could make him a potential trade candidate.

Contract Situation and Trade Implications

Humphrey is currently on a large contract that sees him earning significant money each season. While the Ravens have traditionally been known for building strong defenses, they may face a situation where they need to free up cap space to address other areas of the roster, such as quarterback, offensive line, or pass rush. Moving a player like Humphrey could provide a much-needed financial reprieve.

The return for a player like Humphrey could be substantial, given his skills and track record. Teams that are in need of an elite cornerback—such as the New York Jets or the Miami Dolphins—could offer significant compensation in the form of high draft picks or young players who are ready to contribute immediately.

Impact of the Trade

Humphrey’s departure would be a blow to the Ravens’ defense, as he is one of their most consistent and reliable players. However, the trade could open up opportunities for younger players like Jalen Armdtdavis or Brandon Stephens to step up and showcase their skills. Ultimately, a trade of Humphrey would signal a shift in the Ravens’ approach to building their secondary, but it could also free up resources for other areas of the team.

3. Rashod Bateman (WR)

Rashod Bateman was drafted by the Ravens in 2021 with the hope that he could develop into their number one wide receiver. However, injuries and inconsistent play have hindered his growth, and the team’s reliance on a run-heavy offense has not helped Bateman find his rhythm as a top receiving threat.

Contract Situation and Trade Implications

Bateman is still on his rookie contract, meaning the Ravens wouldn’t incur major financial consequences if they decided to trade him. However, the team has invested significant resources in the wide receiver position through the draft and free agency, and Bateman’s lack of production might prompt them to move on.

The trade market for Bateman could be strong, especially with teams looking to add young, inexpensive talent at wide receiver. A team like the Chicago Bears, who are in the midst of rebuilding and have invested heavily in their passing game, might be interested in acquiring Bateman to complement their existing group of receivers.

Impact of the Trade

Bateman’s departure would leave a hole in the Ravens’ receiving corps, but it could also provide an opportunity for other wide receivers—such as Zay Flowers or Devin Duvernay—to emerge. The Ravens may look to acquire another veteran receiver or focus on developing the younger talent within their system.

4. Calais Campbell (DE)

Calais Campbell is a veteran defensive lineman who has been a key piece of the Ravens’ defense since joining the team in 2020. However, as Campbell enters the twilight years of his career, the Ravens may look to move on from him in favor of younger, cheaper talent.

Contract Situation and Trade Implications

Campbell’s contract is sizable, and while he remains productive, the Ravens may feel that they can get by without him. Trading Campbell could open up cap space and provide a chance to invest in younger defensive linemen or edge rushers.

Campbell would likely fetch a solid return from a team in need of a veteran presence on the defensive line, such as the Kansas City Chiefs or the Los Angeles Rams. These teams could use Campbell to help anchor their defensive front for a potential Super Bowl run.

Impact of the Trade

The loss of Campbell would create a leadership void in the Ravens’ defense, but the team would likely turn to younger players like Justin Madubuike or Travis Jones to fill that role. While Campbell’s departure would leave a hole in the defensive line, it would also allow the Ravens to invest more heavily in their future.

5. Patrick Queen (ILB)

Patrick Queen was once viewed as a cornerstone piece of the Ravens’ defense, but his performance has been inconsistent. While he still flashes potential, Queen has not yet established himself as the elite linebacker many expected him to become when he was drafted in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft.

Contract Situation and Trade Implications

Queen is entering the final year of his rookie contract, which could make him a prime candidate for a trade. The Ravens may not want to invest long-term in a player who hasn’t consistently lived up to expectations, and they could look to move him for a draft pick or another player who better fits their system.

There are several teams that could be interested in Queen’s services, including the New England Patriots or the Minnesota Vikings, both of which have traditionally valued strong linebacker play. A trade could fetch the Ravens a mid-round pick or a player with potential to contribute immediately.

Impact of the Trade

Trading Queen would leave a gap at inside linebacker, but the Ravens could look to replace him with a combination of rookies or veterans. Queen’s departure could ultimately signal a shift toward a new era at linebacker for the Ravens, as they look to move forward with younger talent.

6. Gus Edwards (RB)

Gus Edwards has been a reliable contributor to the Ravens’ backfield over the years, but with the team’s increasing use of committee-based running back systems, Edwards’ role has been more limited. Additionally, the Ravens have several other running backs, including J.K. Dobbins, who could take on a larger role moving forward.

Contract Situation and Trade Implications

Edwards is on a reasonable contract, and as a result, he could have solid trade value for teams looking for a physical, between-the-tackles running back. Teams like the Miami Dolphins or the Indianapolis Colts, who have been seeking depth at running back, could view Edwards as a strong addition to their backfield.

Impact of the Trade

Moving Edwards would likely give Dobbins a more prominent role and could open up opportunities for younger running backs like Justice Hill or Keaton Mitchell to see more action. However, it would reduce the team’s depth at the position, which could be a concern if injuries strike during the season.

As the Ravens prepare for the 2025 NFL Draft, several players may find themselves on the trade block, including key figures like Lamar Jackson, Marlon Humphrey, and Calais Campbell. The trade market is always fluid, with teams looking to move assets to improve their draft positioning, free up cap space, or retool their rosters. While the loss of some of these players would certainly create challenges for the Ravens, the potential return from such trades could be instrumental in building a more balanced and competitive roster for the future.

In the end, the Ravens must weigh the pros and cons of trading these players, keeping in mind that any decision made could have long-term ramifications for the team’s success. The draft will be a crucial moment to fill those gaps, and these trade discussions will play a significant role in shaping the team’s future.