The Baltimore Ravens are facing significant changes as they navigate the aftermath of a disappointing season that concluded with an 8-9 record. The team missed the playoffs for the first time since 2021, prompting discussions about the future of several key players during the annual locker room clean-out day. As athletes gathered to reflect on the season, a common theme emerged: uncertainty about their status with the team moving forward.
Among those expressing a desire to return was All-Pro center Tyler Linderbaum, who emphasized his commitment to the Ravens. “I absolutely want to come back,” he stated, although he acknowledged the need to address his contract situation later. Since joining the team, Linderbaum has developed into one of the NFL’s top centers, making his potential departure a concern for his teammates.
Right tackle Roger Rosengarten highlighted Linderbaum’s importance to the offensive line, stating, “To see a guy like that walk would really hurt. This offensive line runs through him.” Rosengarten intends to keep in touch with Linderbaum in hopes of convincing him to stay, similar to his successful efforts with All-Pro left tackle Ronnie Stanley last year.
Despite the looming changes, players generally expressed a desire to remain with the Ravens. Fullback Patrick Ricard, who joined the team as an undrafted rookie in 2017, expressed his hope to retire as a Raven, while pass rusher Dre’Mont Jones mentioned his enjoyment of his brief stint with the team after being acquired before the trade deadline. He stated, “It would be great if that continued,” depending on the financial terms.
Veteran pass rusher Kyle Van Noy, who recently completed his third season in Baltimore, was more forthright about his intentions. When asked about his offseason goals, he simply replied, “Come back to the Ravens.” Despite a drop in his performance—his sack count decreased from 12.5 in 2024 to just two in 2025—Van Noy remains committed to the franchise.
The Ravens now face the task of rebuilding a roster that once appeared to be a Super Bowl contender but ultimately fell short. General Manager Eric DeCosta must address the pressing issue of Lamar Jackson‘s contract, which will see his cap number rise to $74.5 million for the next two seasons. Allocating such a substantial amount to one player complicates the Ravens’ ability to construct a competitive roster.
During the clean-out session, players reflected on the season’s disappointments. Ricard articulated the team’s collective sentiment, saying, “It just hurts. I feel for the fans of the city, just the heartaches after years after years… It’s just hard.” The Ravens’ inability to capitalize on their talent has left a lingering disappointment that both players and fans must grapple with.
Tight end Charlie Kolar, whose rookie contract just concluded, shared insights regarding roster turnover. He estimated that around 40% of an NFL roster typically changes each year, although the Ravens saw only about 30% turnover between 2024 and 2025. Kolar expressed his desire to stay with the team, stating, “I’d love to be back as a Raven,” while also noting his personal goals of recuperation and training during the offseason.
Another tight end, Isaiah Likely, finds himself in a similar position. He did not sign a mid-season extension and is leaving contract negotiations to his agent. Likely acknowledged that he is uncertain about his future, a sentiment shared by many of his teammates.
The Ravens’ management has already begun to make moves, having extended contracts for key players, including tight end Mark Andrews and defensive linemen Travis Jones and John Jenkins. As the offseason progresses, the organization will continue to assess its roster, aiming to keep the Super Bowl window open while addressing the challenges ahead.
With the offseason officially underway, the Ravens face crucial decisions that will impact the team’s future. As players head into their breaks, the anticipation of change looms large over the organization, with many hoping for a more successful chapter in the coming season.
