The NFL offseason remains in its early stages following the opening wave of free agency, with plenty of time left before the draft and offseason workouts begin.

Even so, analysts have already started grading the moves teams have made—and one franchise drawing particular scrutiny is the Baltimore Ravens.

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Much of the attention centers on the strange circumstances surrounding the canceled Maxx Crosby trade. However, Sports Illustrated’s Matt Verderame believes the concerns run deeper than a single incident—possibly deep enough to raise real alarm for the organization and its fan base.

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“The Ravens have real problems,” Verderame writes. While he acknowledges the addition of Trey Hendrickson, he suggests the move failed to address the team’s biggest issues.

“This is a very top-heavy group that’s aging. Outside of Zay Flowers and Kyle Hamilton, there isn’t much to be excited about.”

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The Ravens also saw several key contributors depart in free agency, including Isaiah Likely, Tyler Linderbaum, and Alohi Gilman. Beyond the young standouts Verderame mentioned, the roster now leans older at several critical positions.

Concerns about the roster’s direction are understandable after that level of talent loss. Still, the Ravens will have an opportunity to reload through the NFL Draft and inject much-needed youth into the lineup.

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They also roster one of the league’s premier playmakers at the most important position. Lamar Jackson missed time last season due to injury, and his absence played a major role in the team narrowly missing the playoffs.

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson

So, is it time to panic? Not yet. But general manager Eric DeCosta must deliver a strong draft class to keep the team on track.

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In the end, winning tends to quiet both fans and critics alike.

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