Could the Ravens Consider Trading Tight End Mark Andrews?

The NFL offseason often sparks a flurry of speculation around potential trades and player movements, and one name that has consistently popped up in recent years for the Baltimore Ravens is tight end Mark Andrews. As one of the premier tight ends in the league, Andrews has become the focal point of the Ravens’ passing attack, making any potential trade of him an intriguing and complex discussion.

While the prospect of trading a star player like Andrews might seem unlikely, it’s worth exploring the reasons why the Ravens could consider it, as well as the potential impact of such a decision. To fully understand this scenario, let’s break down the various factors at play—ranging from team strategy, financial considerations, player performance, and more.

Mark Andrews’ Role in the Ravens Offense

Mark Andrews has been one of the most productive and consistent tight ends in the NFL since entering the league in 2018. Over his first few seasons, Andrews established himself as Lamar Jackson’s most trusted target, earning multiple Pro Bowl selections and setting franchise records for touchdowns and receiving yards by a tight end. His combination of size, speed, and hands makes him a matchup nightmare for defenses, and he has been a key component of the Ravens’ offensive scheme.

In 2023, Andrews continued his dominance, racking up 847 receiving yards and 5 touchdowns despite Baltimore’s evolving offensive system. As one of the best pass-catching tight ends in the league, Andrews offers unmatched versatility, capable of lining up both in-line and as a receiver, contributing to the Ravens’ passing and blocking game alike. The Ravens’ offense is built around Lamar Jackson’s ability to make plays with both his arm and his legs, and Andrews has been one of the primary beneficiaries of this dynamic.

However, the Ravens’ offense has evolved in recent seasons. Under new offensive coordinator Todd Monken in 2023, Baltimore has shifted towards a more pass-heavy approach, trying to expand their aerial attack and create more opportunities in the passing game. As part of this transition, Andrews’ role has remained prominent, but there is now increased competition for targets, as the team has added more weapons like wide receivers Odell Beckham Jr. and Zay Flowers.

Given the current landscape of the Ravens’ offense, it’s natural to wonder whether Andrews’ presence is still an absolute necessity, or whether the team could pursue a new direction in the future. This leads to the question: Could the Ravens consider trading Mark Andrews?

The Financial Considerations

When considering the possibility of trading Mark Andrews, the financial element cannot be overlooked. Andrews signed a four-year, $56 million extension in 2022, making him one of the highest-paid tight ends in the league. His cap hit for the 2024 season is projected to be over $14 million, and this contract will continue to be a significant part of the Ravens’ salary cap for the next few years.

For a team like Baltimore, which operates under relatively tight financial constraints, making a move like trading Andrews could provide immediate salary cap relief. The Ravens could free up a significant portion of their cap space, allowing them to address other needs on the roster, such as improving the offensive line, acquiring additional wide receivers, or strengthening their defense.

However, it’s important to note that trading Andrews would come with a significant dead cap hit. While Baltimore could clear much of his salary off the books, the dead cap figure would still limit their financial flexibility in the short term. This makes trading Andrews a less attractive option from a financial standpoint, unless they are in dire need of cap relief or have a clear path to a more advantageous financial situation in the future.

The Value of Mark Andrews

Despite the potential salary cap implications, Mark Andrews remains one of the top tight ends in the NFL. His value to the Ravens’ offense cannot be understated—he has consistently been the team’s top target, a reliable red-zone weapon, and a security blanket for Lamar Jackson. While it’s true that the Ravens’ passing game is evolving, Andrews still provides a level of consistency and playmaking ability that would be difficult to replace.

If the Ravens were to trade Andrews, they would likely have to receive a substantial return. Given the high demand for top-tier tight ends in the NFL and the premium placed on receiving weapons, it’s possible that Baltimore could command a first-round pick or multiple high draft picks in exchange for Andrews. However, the Ravens would need to weigh whether such a trade would help them in the long term, especially when considering that trading a player of Andrews’ caliber might stunt the development of their offense, particularly the relationship between Lamar Jackson and his tight end.

Moreover, there’s also the emotional and intangible aspect of trading away a player who has become a beloved figure in the Baltimore locker room. Andrews has been the face of the Ravens’ offense for several years, and his departure would undoubtedly have a ripple effect on team morale. While NFL teams are ultimately driven by business decisions, the human factor cannot be ignored, especially when dealing with a player who has been so integral to the team’s success.

The Potential Market for Mark Andrews

If the Ravens were to entertain trade offers for Mark Andrews, they would likely have a wide market of suitors. There are several teams in the NFL that could benefit from adding a top-tier tight end like Andrews. Teams with a young quarterback or an offense in need of a reliable pass-catching target would undoubtedly show interest in acquiring him.

For example, teams like the Green Bay Packers, New England Patriots, and even the Kansas City Chiefs could be potential suitors. The Packers, with quarterback Jordan Love under center, are building their offense and could benefit from adding a dynamic tight end to help ease his transition. The Patriots, meanwhile, have struggled to find consistency at tight end in recent years, and adding Andrews could provide Mac Jones with a reliable target in the middle of the field. The Chiefs, despite having a high-powered offense, might consider trading for Andrews to further strengthen their passing game alongside superstar Patrick Mahomes.

Baltimore could also target a team with extra draft capital or a significant need at tight end, which would make the trade more appealing. Given Andrews’ proven track record and elite status, the Ravens could likely negotiate a solid return in terms of draft picks or players that could help the team in the future.

The Impact on the Ravens’ Future

Trading away a player of Andrews’ caliber would have significant implications for the Ravens’ future. As mentioned, Andrews is one of the top targets for Lamar Jackson, and the two have developed a strong connection over the years. Trading Andrews would put more pressure on Jackson to build rapport with other receivers, who may not yet have the same level of trust or familiarity with the quarterback.

Additionally, Andrews’ departure could leave a gap in the Ravens’ offense that would be difficult to fill. While there are certainly other talented tight ends available, the Ravens would need to find someone who can replicate Andrews’ ability as both a blocker and a pass catcher. The tight end position is integral to the Ravens’ offensive scheme, and trading Andrews could throw off the delicate balance that they’ve built over the years.

The Ravens would also need to consider the message that trading Andrews might send to the rest of the roster. As a beloved veteran and one of the faces of the franchise, trading Andrews could create a sense of uncertainty among the team. It might signal that the Ravens are entering a rebuilding phase or that they are willing to make significant changes to their offensive identity. For a team that is in contention for the playoffs and potentially even a Super Bowl, such a move could have unintended consequences on team chemistry and morale.