Ravens Seek Defensive Boost Through Free Agency

3 under-the-radar free agents that could help revamp Baltimore's struggling defense

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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After a disappointing season, the Baltimore Ravens are looking to retool their roster through free agency. While they may target some big-name players, there are also a few under-the-radar free agents that could provide significant value to help shore up the team's struggling defense.

Why it matters

The Ravens' defense has declined in recent years, and addressing those issues will be crucial for the team to return to contention. Finding cost-effective free agents to improve the pass rush, secondary, and overall defensive performance could be the key to getting the Ravens back on track.

The details

The Ravens are targeting three free agents in particular to help improve their defense: defensive tackle D.J. Reader, wide receiver Keenan Allen, and cornerback Montaric Brown. Reader would provide a big body to help generate interior pressure, Allen would give the offense another reliable receiving threat, and Brown would bolster the secondary opposite Marlon Humphrey.

  • The Ravens fired long-time head coach John Harbaugh and hired Los Angeles Chargers defensive coordinator Jesse Minter as their new head coach.
  • Several key Ravens players, including defensive tackle Justin Madubuike and cornerback Chidobe Awuzie, are set to hit free agency this offseason.

The players

D.J. Reader

A veteran defensive tackle who could help improve the Ravens' pass rush from the interior of the defensive line.

Keenan Allen

A proven wide receiver who could provide a reliable receiving threat for the Ravens' offense.

Montaric Brown

A young cornerback who had a solid season with the Jaguars and could help bolster the Ravens' secondary.

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What they’re saying

“With one of their best interior linemen, Justin Madubuike, potentially retiring before the season starts due to injury, the Ravens could be in need of a big body to fill the interior.”

— Gerard Angelo Samillano, Author (clutchpoints.com)

“Baltimore's wide receiver corps has been lacking for quite some time now. It's been better over the last few years: Zay Flowers is emerging as a solid top wide receiver for Baltimore. That being said, the Ravens' pass-catchers still lag behind other top contenders in the league.”

— Gerard Angelo Samillano, Author (clutchpoints.com)

“Montaric Brown isn't a flashy name, but he's been effective for a Jaguars team that was one of the better units in the league. He recorded 2 interceptions and 12 passes defended last season. He should be an upgrade for the team if they're able to sign him.”

— Gerard Angelo Samillano, Author (clutchpoints.com)

What’s next

The Ravens will need to determine their priorities and budget for free agency, as they look to address multiple needs on the defensive side of the ball.

The takeaway

The Ravens' struggles last season highlighted the need for a defensive overhaul, and free agency presents an opportunity to find cost-effective solutions to improve the team's pass rush, secondary, and overall defensive performance.