By Joe Schiller
That's a fancy way of marking the start of NFL free agency.
This period is particularly important for the Ravens this offseason. Of their 10 restricted free agents slated to hit the open market, C.J. Mosley is undoubtedly the biggest name.
One of the unquestioned leaders of the NFL’s top defense, Mosley kept quiet throughout the season about any contract negotiations, deferring questions to his agent while keeping his main focus on the field.
After participating in his fourth Pro Bowl, the offseason officially begins and the question will only begin to loom larger.
Should the Ravens sign Mosley long term?
Mosley finished the season with 105 tackles (6 for loss), 5 passes defended, 0.5 sacks, 1 interception in 15 games.
Here’s how his stats compared to the five highest paid inside linebackers in 2019.
The option of a franchise tag is almost certainly out of the question. It wouldn’t make sense for the Ravens to make Mosley the league’s highest-paid linebacker on a one-year deal.
It’s also important to consider the depth the Ravens have behind Mosley at the position.
Patrick Onwuasor took a big step in making his case to be a regular starter after a breakout year in his third season. He, alongside Mosley, could make for a very productive tandem in the middle of the defense.
Kenny Young showed flashes early last season as a rookie but may not be ready to take on a full workload.
And on the other side, Mosley's coverage skills have brought about concerns. He's suffered lapses in important defense situations and consistenly struggled to cover tight ends in a league that only continues to be become predicated on throwing the football.
But as one of the “quarterbacks,” patrolling the middle of the defense, Mosley will be a sought-after free agent both by the Ravens and many other teams.
What the Ravens will have is a first crack at keeping him around and time will tell very quickly moving forward.