Pass rush payday frenzy may sack Ravens’ future free agent plans

While the Baltimore Ravens set themselves up for success in 2025, their future could be in question. Their list of unrestricted free agents in the 2026 offseason is concerning. They have various All-Pros and Pro Bowlers ready to cash in on a pay day, and with the recent surge of the free agent market, they will likely be strapped for cash.

One position on the market that is booming is edge rusher. After the extensions of stars Maxx Crosby, Myles Garrett, T.J. Watt, and George Karlaftis, the deals surrounding the position are quickly inflating. Baltimore has their two starting pass rushers set to hit free agency after this season in Kyle Van Noy and Odafe Oweh. 

While neither is close to the caliber of Crosby, Garrett, or Watt, the Kansas City Chiefs deal with Karlaftis could boost the yearly numbers that Van Noy and Oweh eventually sign for. Sure, Van Noy is 34 years old, and Oweh has yet to put together a consistent season, but the duo each had double-digit sack campaigns in 2024, making their value a bit more appealing. And the Ravens might not have the money to retain their services.

The Ravens’ future at pass rush could get complicated

At the current moment, the Ravens will have $19.9 million in cap space in 2026. This number is subject to change, as various restructures and extensions can free up money. General Manager Eric DeCosta and the front office always find cap space, but it will be challenging to keep all the talent.

Along with Van Noy and Oweh, Mark Andrews, Isaiah Likely, Travis Jones, and Tyler Linderbaum are all hitting free agency. With a laundry list of free agents awaiting negotiations, the Ravens will have to pick and choose, and at least one of those leaving could be a pass rusher.

Van Noy could very well retire by season’s end, but he is playing like he is in the prime of his career. He just set a career-high in sacks with 12.5, which comes off a 2023 campaign when he tallied nine. At his current pace, he could continue playing for a long time, but his future in Baltimore could be in question if he chooses to do so.

As for Oweh, his future is looking bright. He is also coming off a career-best year with 10 sacks, and 2025 looks to be even better. He gained 20 pounds of muscle over the offseason, showing up to OTAs looking like a completely different player. If the added strength can translate into consistent production over the 17-game slate, Oweh will be one of the most intriguing players on the 2026 market.

It would be wise for Baltimore to re-sign one of the two sack artists to pair with rookie Mike Green moving forward. Since Oweh is 26 years old and on the come-up, it would likely be him who earns a new contract, barring a rough campaign. The price will not be cheap, though. The recent trend of contract extensions for pass rushers has driven up the cost drastically, and it could spell trouble for the Ravens. For now, though, they remained focused on one goal: winning the Super Bowl in 2025.