Ravens Rumors

After some consideration, the Ravens decided to pass on Antonio Brown earlier this summer. For what it’s worth, Ravens star quarterback Lamar Jackson hasn’t given up hope of bringing AB to Baltimore. 

“It was nice throwing to Antonio Brown [this offseason],” Jackson said on Wednesday morning (Twitter link via ESPN.com’s Jamison Hensley). “I was hoping we would get him. I’m still hoping — a little bit.”

Brown’s talent is undeniable, but the complications that come along with him are impossible to ignore. Just recently, Brown announced his retirement from the NFL, only to reverse course three days later. Brown – who now says he’s ready to play – has called it quits at least three times since September of last year.

Jackson lobbied hard for Brown following their offseason workouts. Antonio’s cousin, Marquise Brown, agrees, and he would like to make it a family affair. Still, the four-time All-Pro and would-be future Hall of Famer remains in limbo with Roger Goodell. Even if the Ravens wanted to ignite a media circus and risk the potential headaches, they would not be able to bank on Brown’s early season availability. When the NFL finally rules on Brown’s situation, it stands to reason that he’ll face a suspension.

The Ravens have Hollywood and Willie Snead, but the run game is their bread-and-butter. One could argue that they don’t need Brown. At the same time, it’s hard to imagine anyone being able to keep a lid on their offense with a productive Brown in the lineup.

The Seahawks have also been connected to Brown, and Russell Wilson has advocated for him. Still, it’s not clear if the Seahawks are entertaining the possibility.

Photo courtesy of USA Today Sports Images.