Breaking: Ravens Set To Sign $12 Million Deep Threat WR Amid Contract Dispute
The Ravens could use some more speed.
The Ravens are looking for more wide receivers in the upcoming NFL Draft, since Zay Flowers and Rashod Bateman are insufficient to challenge Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs for the AFC lead. Perhaps such reinforcements could arrive via trade.
The Ravens should look for individuals who suit a specific archetype, as youthful standouts with vertical speed should be highly valued. If the New York Giants are unable to reach an agreement with Darius Slayton on a new contract, one of those names might become available.
Slayton, one of the few solid skill position players New York has had in recent years, did not attend offseason practices. He got a two-year, $12 million contract last summer, but it appears he is looking for a larger contract, which the Giants are unwilling to offer.
Given the necessity to pay Slayton and the fact that his output hasn’t been spectacular, the Ravens may be able to add a potential WR2 without giving up one of their valuable early draft picks. His speed remains a menace, which might benefit Lamar Jackson and the rest of Baltimore’s passing attack.
Baltimore Ravens should trade for Darius Slayton amid contract dispute
Slayton has accumulated between 700 and 800 yards in four of his five NFL seasons, missing four games in the only season when he did not meet that mark. With an average of 15.1 yards per reception and 19 touchdowns, his verticality from Auburn translated to the NFL.
Slayton put up these figures despite having a significantly worse quarterback, Daniel Jones, throw him the ball the majority of the time. Slayton, who is still only 27 years old, may see a significant increase in production if he joins the Ravens and Jackson’s ultra-accurate arm.
The potential inclusion of Slayton may result in a great top three of him, Bateman, and Flowers. With Nelson Agholor, a potential mid-round choice in the 2024 NFL Draft, and experienced kick returner Deonte Harty, the Ravens will have strong depth at the position.
In a league where wide receiver skill is more essential than ever, the Ravens must continue to invest in guys until they have the necessary depth. Slayton has more talent than most of the remaining free agents, making a deal worthwhile.
