Ravens Cut Ties With Speedy RB After Free Agency Begins

Baltimore decides not to tender contract to Keaton Mitchell, making him an unrestricted free agent.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The Baltimore Ravens have decided not to tender a contract to restricted free agent running back Keaton Mitchell, making him an unrestricted free agent. Mitchell had an impressive rookie season in 2023 as an undrafted free agent, but struggled with injuries and inconsistent play in the following years.

Why it matters

Mitchell was once considered a rising star in Baltimore, but the team has now moved on, signaling they don't see him as a long-term fit. This decision will allow Mitchell to sign with any team as a free agent, potentially getting a 'prove-it' deal elsewhere.

The details

Mitchell took the NFL by storm as an undrafted rookie in 2023, averaging an impressive 8.4 yards per carry. However, he struggled with injuries and inconsistent play in the following seasons, leading the Ravens to make the tough decision to not tender him a contract as a restricted free agent.

  • In 2023, Mitchell played in 8 games, running 47 times for 396 yards and 2 touchdowns.
  • In 2024, Mitchell averaged just 2.0 yards per carry over 5 games.
  • In 2025, Mitchell ran 59 times for 341 yards and 1 touchdown, a 5.8 yard per carry average.

The players

Keaton Mitchell

A former undrafted free agent running back who had an impressive rookie season with the Ravens in 2023 but struggled with injuries and inconsistent play in the following years.

John Harbaugh

The head coach of the Baltimore Ravens, who suggested that Mitchell wasn't necessarily equipped to be a full-time running back and instead more of a player who needed specific plays drawn up for him.

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What they’re saying

“It's a real bummer of an outcome for the explosive RB in Baltimore.”

— Billy Heyen, Author (sportingnews.com)

What’s next

Mitchell will now be free to sign with any team as an unrestricted free agent, likely on a 'prove-it' deal that will give him a chance to show he can be a productive NFL running back.

The takeaway

This decision by the Ravens highlights the challenges of developing and retaining undrafted free agent talent, even when a player shows promise early on. Mitchell will now have to prove himself all over again with a new team in order to secure a long-term NFL future.