Three reasons Ravens will still sign veteran pass-rusher

The Ravens have been linked to a couple of veteran pass-rushers as they round out their roster for the 2023 season. Here are three reasons they will sign one before the start of the season.

Been there, done that

Baltimore has a track record of adding a veteran pass-rusher late in the summer. The Ravens signed Justin Houston in July and August the last two offseasons and "it would surprise no one" if they did it again. 

They may decide to bring back Houston but the team has also been linked to three-time Pro Bowler Melvin Ingram III. Whatever Baltimore decides, another addition to the group is likely soon on its way.

Plus, it's no secret veterans want to wait to join rosters as close to the season as possible, so they don't need to participate in any mandatory practices to keep their bodies fresh.

Good insurance

Adding a veteran pass-rusher would also serve as a good insurance policy. The Ravens' 2022 second-round pick David Ojabo, who tore his Achilles during his rookie year, and Tyus Bowser missed significant time due to injuries in 2022.

Veterans like Houston and Ingram III are nearing the end of their careers but have proved they still have enough gas left in the tank to fill in for an injured or underperforming player. Baltimore shouldn't take any chances with its injury bug history.

Cheap investment

The Ravens signed Houston to a one-year, $3.5M contract last offseason. They could likely sign him or another veteran to a similar or even cheaper deal. Baltimore also has almost $10M in cap space, so money is not an issue. 

As the team rounds out its roster for the 2023 season, adding another pass-rusher makes a lot of sense. The Ravens can squeeze out whatever ball is left in a veteran as they push for a Super Bowl championship in 2023.