The Baltimore Ravens were literally a failed 4th-and-12 stop away from making the playoffs last season. Unfortunately, they not only weren’t able to get that stop, they actually allowed a 49-yard touchdown reception and were left on the outside looking in for the postseason.
Baltimore has not made the playoffs since 2014 and last season their offense was a major cause of concern. They finished 27th in overall offense and a disappointing 29th in the passing game.
A closer look at the passing attack reveals that for the third consecutive season Baltimore had 21 or fewer touchdown passes and the 20 they produced in 2017 tied them for 23rd in the league. The playoff opportunity that the Ravens squandered only existed because of an opportunistic defense that produced 22 interceptions, 12 fumble recoveries, and five defensive touchdowns. The offense has struggled and will need to be revamped for Baltimore to contend for the playoffs once again in 2018.
Three additions we want to see for fantasy
Sammy Watkins, WR: The Ravens will likely allow Mike Wallace to leave via free agency and can bring in the younger Watkins as his replacement. In a limited role with Los Angeles last season, Watkins managed to post eight touchdowns on just 39 receptions. Watkins has the skill set to be a No. 1 wide receiver and could fill that role for Baltimore.
Jimmy Graham, TE: Go big or go home. Graham is coming off the fourth double-digit touchdown campaign of his career and remains one of the top red-zone targets in the league. Considering it was veteran tight end Ben Watson who led the Ravens in receptions (61) last season we know Joe Flacco will utilize the position.
Select a running back and wide receiver in the first and second rounds of the draft: Both are positions of need and this draft class offers up plenty of talent at both positions. Alex Collins stepped up admirably as the lead back last season, but isn’t the long-term answer. Flacco needs more receiving options.
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