The Baltimore Ravens are one of the premier organizations in sports and that makes them an ideal landing spot for free agents this offseason. That was the case for Baltimore’s newest addition, defensive lineman Derek Wolfe, who signed a one-year deal following the Ravens’ failed deal with Michael Brockers.
“Really what I was looking to do in this free agency was get on a team that was going to contend because I had a feeling the Broncos were done and wanted to move on from me,” Wolfe said, per Mike Klis of 9News. “So I was ready to get on a team that was ready to compete for Super Bowls again. I found one.”
While recommendations from former players like Eric Weddle and Tony Jefferson have certainly helped in the past, it’s Baltimore’s recent success that is likely a bigger driving factor. After posting a 14-2 record last season and entering the playoffs as the No. 1 seed, the Ravens are primed to compete for a Super Bowl once again in 2020. With the league’s highest-scoring offense and a top-4 defense that has gotten even better this offseason, Baltimore won’t be taken lightly this upcoming season.
“They’re going to score a lot of points, give us a chance to get after the quarterback,” Wolfe said, per Klis. “They’ve got Calais Campbell. Look at the secondary they have, too. It’s just a great opportunity for me. Step in there, go make some plays and try to win another Super Bowl.”
Being practical, it’s also the ideal location for a player like Wolfe to increase his value. A one-year deal allows Wolfe to hit free agency next offseason with hopefully the production to warrant one final large contract. It’s a low-risk signing for the Ravens that ultimately incentivizes — both figuratively and literally — Wolfe to show up hungry and be productive.
