Outside linebacker Patrick Queen (6) Paul Rutherford-USA TODAY Sports

Ravens' latest decision hints at departure of former first-round pick

By Aaron Becker | Last updated 5/2/23

The Ravens made a big decision regarding their 2020 first-round pick yesterday and it hints the team is preparing to say goodbye.

Baltimore declined the fifth-year option for LB Patrick Queen as he enters the final year of his contract in 2023.

The #Ravens declined the fifth-year option for LB Patrick Queen, source said. And he enters a contract year in 2023.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) May 1, 2023

The team could still decide to resign him following the season if he plays too good to refuse, but with $100 million invested into fellow LB Roquan Smith, it seems unlikely.

Queen, who is still only 23, has 321 tackles, 10 sacks, four forced fumbles and two interceptions since entering the league. If the Ravens let him walk, he should have multiple suitors as a free-agent come 2024.

Baltimore's 2023 NFL Draft class makes more sense now as well. The team used its third-round pick on Clemson LB Trenton Simpson when its most glaring need is cornerback.

Simpson ranks as Pro Football Focus's fourth-best linebacker in the class after posting 165 tackles, 13 sacks and three forced fumbles from 2020-22.

If Queen's final season as a Raven is on deck, Simpson provides a cheap insurance policy they are looking for with a ton of upside, and he'll get to learn behind one of the league's top linebacker duos before taking over for Queen.

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