For a 14-2 team, the Baltimore Ravens have a number of offseason decisions to make. One of the biggest being the future of pass rusher Matthew Judon.
Judon is slated to become an unrestricted free agent this offseason. He recorded a career-high 9.5 sacks during the 2019 season and could earn top dollar if he hits the open market.
Reports have suggested the Ravens will place the franchise tag on Judon, which would be a one-year deal. ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that Judon could draw trade interest from teams this offseason.
"Judon is scheduled to become a free agent this offseason, and the Ravens would like to bring him back, but they also are likely to listen if another team expresses interest in trading for him, according to sources," Schefter wrote.
As Schefter noted, teams have been more willing to deal top pass rushers. Frank Clark, Dee Ford, and Jadaveon Clowney were all traded last season.
It presents an interesting conversation for the Ravens. They clearly have a need for pass rush and let Za'Darius Smith walk in free agency. They could try to at least get compensation for Judon if they know he won't stay in Baltimore long term.
Behind Judon is a group of unproven pass rushers that would leave the Ravens without a clear-cut No. 1 option.
The Ravens could tag-and-trade Judon without accruing any dead money. The question becomes, is it worth letting your top pass rusher go for the second straight season?
