Yannick Ngakoue Makes Sense for Ravens, But Will He Be Available?

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By Joe Schiller

We're just one day away from the NFL Trade Deadline, and the Baltimore Ravens desperately need help in the pass rush. They've totaled just 12 sacks this season and recently lost Pernell McPhee to a season-ending triceps injury in Week 7. 

There have been plenty of names linked to the Ravens as potential trade targets, but one of the names that makes the most sense is Yannick Ngakoue. The Maryland product has been a standout with the Jaguars entering the final year of his rookie contract. However, will he even be available for the Ravens? 

It's not looking like it. 

A report from radio host Dan Sileo that suggested Ngakoue was on the trading block was quickly shot down by Jaguars Director of Public Communications Tad Dickman. 

This is completely false... https://t.co/DpNm6h6QsD

— Tad Dickman (@TDickman89) October 26, 2019

NFL Network's Ian Rapoport also expressed a similar tone regarding Ngakoue's trade availability. 

"The subject of trade rumors, the Cardinals have said they aren't trading Patrick Peterson, though no one has called because they know GM Steve Keim won't trade him," Rapoport wrote. "Similar situation for the Jaguars' Yannick Ngakoue -- who is not on the trade block but no one has called about him because they know he isn't going anywhere."

That's not good news for the Ravens, who desperately need help at that position. It suggests the team will look elsewhere for a trade, and time is ticking ahead of 4 p.m. ET on October 29. 

Remember, Baltimore only has around $2 million in cap space after trading for cornerback Marcus Peters. Acquiring a player like Vic Beasley, Leonard Williams, etc. would mean the Ravens would have to restructure contracts, potentially leaving them in cap trouble down the road. 

A crucial Sunday night football matchup against the Patriots looms, but for now, all the focus surrounds the next 24 hours with this team.