Ravens Explore Free Agent Options to Replace Veteran LB Kyle Van Noy

4 potential targets to fill the void left by the departing 35-year-old linebacker

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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The Baltimore Ravens must find a replacement for veteran linebacker Kyle Van Noy, who is set to become a free agent this offseason at age 35. The team is considering several free agent options to fill the void, including younger players like K'Lavon Chaisson of the New England Patriots and Kwity Paye of the Indianapolis Colts, as well as more experienced veterans like Khalil Mack of the Los Angeles Chargers and a potential reunion with former Raven Odafe Oweh.

Why it matters

The Ravens have a history of adding veteran talent to their defense, and replacing the production of a player like Van Noy, who made the Pro Bowl in 2024, will be crucial for maintaining their defensive strength. The team must weigh the upside of younger options against the experience and proven track record of more seasoned free agents.

The details

Van Noy, who turns 35 in March, is set to become a free agent after two seasons with the Ravens. The team must decide whether to re-sign the veteran or explore other options in free agency. Potential targets include K'Lavon Chaisson of the Patriots, who could provide depth in a rotational role, Kwity Paye of the Colts, who has starting experience but production that has been inconsistent, Khalil Mack of the Chargers, who is a proven pass rusher but may be considering retirement, and Odafe Oweh, a former Raven who could return to Baltimore.

  • Kyle Van Noy's contract with the Ravens expires on March 11, 2026, the start of the new league year.
  • Van Noy will turn 35 years old on March 26, 2026.

The players

Kyle Van Noy

A 35-year-old linebacker who has spent the last two seasons with the Baltimore Ravens after winning two Super Bowls with the New England Patriots.

K'Lavon Chaisson

A defensive end for the New England Patriots who could provide depth in a rotational role for the Ravens.

Kwity Paye

A linebacker for the Indianapolis Colts who has starting experience but inconsistent production.

Khalil Mack

A veteran pass rusher for the Los Angeles Chargers who is considering retirement but could be a valuable addition in a rotational role.

Odafe Oweh

A former Ravens linebacker who is currently with the Los Angeles Chargers and could potentially return to Baltimore.

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What they’re saying

“We like K'Lavon Chaisson's potential in a rotational role, but only in a rotational role. If the Ravens hope for bang-for-buck signings, this could be one of them.”

— Geoffrey A Knox, Author (usatoday.com)

“Kwity Paye and Chaisson are alike in that many expected more from him than what we've seen. He has logged decent numbers, but there is still this vibe that something is missing, even though some can't state what that 'something' is.”

— Geoffrey A Knox, Author (usatoday.com)

What’s next

The Ravens will need to make a decision on whether to re-sign Kyle Van Noy or explore free agent options to replace him before the start of the new league year on March 11, 2026.

The takeaway

The Ravens have a history of adding veteran talent to their defense, and replacing the production of a player like Kyle Van Noy will be crucial for maintaining their defensive strength. The team must weigh the upside of younger options against the experience and proven track record of more seasoned free agents as they look to fill this key position.