Feb. 26, 2026, 9:40 a.m. ET

The Baltimore Ravens enter this offseason in a position that contenders often recognize. They’re close enough to a championship that a few targeted additions could change everything. That’s both encouraging and frustrating.

It’s encouraging because the core is strong. It’s frustrating because the margin between playoff heartbreak and a Lombardi Trophy is razor-thin. Roster evaluation has made a few things clear. Baltimore doesn’t need a rebuild. It needs upgrades in specific areas, particularly at pass-catcher and long-term offensive weapons.

That reality is exactly why outside analysts keep circling the Ravens as a logical destination whenever high-end talent becomes available. When you have an MVP quarterback and a championship window open, aggressive thinking isn’t reckless at all. It’s called being a responsible organization.

ESPN links the Ravens to three exciting potential trade candidates.

All of that brings us to a fascinating piece from ESPN, dropped on the eve of NFL Combine workouts, entitled “2026 NFL offseason: Ranking the top 15 trade candidates.” Dan Graziano and Ben Solak are co-writers of this one. Lines are drawn connecting the Ravens to three players on this list. All represent positions of need. Two are wide receivers.

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One possibility is Jaylen Waddle. His elite speed and separation ability would inject immediate explosiveness into Baltimore’s offense. If the Miami Dolphins truly enter a financial reset, the Ravens profile as the kind of contender willing to pay for impact talent.

Another speculative name is A.J. Brown. While more arguments have been advanced that moving him now feels less likely than it once did, the theoretical fit remains obvious. Physicality, toughness, and postseason production align perfectly with Baltimore’s identity.

The third player shifts positions but not importance. It’s Detroit Lions star Sam LaPorta. Detroit trading him would be surprising, but roster economics create difficult decisions. With uncertainty surrounding the future of two Ravens tight ends, Isaiah Likely and Charlie Kolar, LaPorta would represent long-term stability.

Whether any of these moves happen is almost secondary to a larger takeaway: perception. Around the league, Baltimore is viewed as a destination franchise for elite players. If an opportunity that makes sense emerges, the Ravens are an organization that normally won’t hesitate.

And if they do strike, it may be the move that finally pushes them from knocking on the door to kicking it down. They’re a team close enough to winning that bold moves feel justified. All that remains is execution. If Baltimore identifies the right opportunity and acts decisively, this could be the offseason that turns legitimate contention into a championship breakthrough.