In what’s been considered more of a formality in recent days, starting right tackle Rick Wagner is reportedly leaving the Ravens for a lucrative contract elsewhere.
According to multiple outlets, Wagner has agreed to terms on a long-term deal with the Detroit Lions. The 27-year-old is expected to make north of $9 million per season, according to NFL Network. Such a deal would set a new bar for right tackles, who have generally topped out at around $6 million annually in recent years.
A three-year starter who ranked 18th among all qualified offensive tackles in Pro Football Focus’ grading system for 2016, Wagner will be tough to replace with the Ravens having already stated a clear offseason goal of improving their offensive line and running game. James Hurst, De’Ondre Wesley, and Stephane Nembot are the current internal options at right tackle, but Hurst has struggled when pressed into starting duty over the last three years and the other two lack any meaningful experience.
The Ravens prefer to keep second-year lineman Alex Lewis at left guard and as the primary backup to starting left tackle Ronnie Stanley.
Of course, it’s worth noting there was much angst with Baltimore’s decision to hand the right tackle job to Wagner in 2014 after former first-round pick Michael Oher departed via free agency, but the Wisconsin product would start 45 games over three seasons. For what it’s worth, the coaching staff believes both Wesley and Nembot have potential to develop, but that doesn’t mean the Ravens won’t pursue another right tackle via free agency or the draft.
Wagner is just the first of a few unrestricted free agents who could be leaving the Ravens in the coming days. Reports have already indicated multiple teams being interested in Pro Bowl fullback Kyle Juszczyk while nose tackle Brandon Williams is expected to receive a massive payday on the open market.
