Ravens signs $70 Million Free Agent
### NFL Writer Suggests Ravens Should Sign Free Agent Jamal Adams for the 2024 Season
Three-time Pro Bowl safety Jamal Adams is still in search of a new NFL team, and one analyst believes the Baltimore Ravens would be an ideal fit for the former first-round pick. Once considered one of the top all-around safeties, Adams is entering his age-29 season after years of injuries and subpar performances in coverage. Despite his limitations, Adams remains a strong asset against the run, and Matt Holder of Bleacher Report suggests that Baltimore should bring him in.
The Ravens could benefit from a versatile player on the second level of their defense, especially after losing athletic linebacker Patrick Queen in free agency and planning to start second-year pro Trenton Simpson in Queen’s spot.
#### Bleacher Report: Ravens Should Sign Jamal Adams
Holder argues that the Ravens should sign Jamal Adams to play a pseudo-linebacker role. This makes sense, as Adams excels near the line of scrimmage. While Baltimore lost several key players in free agency, they still have superstar linebacker Roquan Smith. Instead of seeking another top player at the position, the Ravens could ask Adams to unofficially switch roles.
The Ravens already had Adams in for a free agent visit, showing their interest. At 6′-1″ and 213 pounds, Adams is slightly undersized for a full-time linebacker role compared to Queen’s 6′-0″ and 230 pounds. While Adams could potentially add some muscle, it’s unlikely he’ll gain 15-20 pounds at this stage in his career. If Baltimore signs him, he may serve as a role player.
#### Another Potential Use
Replacing Patrick Queen will be challenging, but he’s not the only major contributor to depart recently. Safety Geno Stone signed a massive contract with the Cincinnati Bengals after his breakout campaign. The Ravens have reliable starters in Kyle Hamilton and Marcus Williams, but Jamal Adams could provide valuable depth. Baltimore frequently uses three-safety looks, meaning Adams should find a way to contribute.
It’s important that the Ravens do not use Jamal Adams as a direct replacement for Geno Stone. Stone excels in deep field coverage, where Adams struggles. If the Ravens utilize Adams as a safety, it should be as Kyle Hamilton’s backup. Adams should embrace a pseudo-linebacker role, add some muscle, and focus on being a physical presence in the run game. If the Ravens seek another safety, they should consider freeing up funds for a versatile star like Justin Simmons or seeing if Patrick Peterson would switch to a full-time safety role.