The Baltimore Ravens have reportedly made an aggressive offer to offensive lineman Kelechi Osemele that would make him the second highest paid offensive player on the Ravens roster, according to NFL reporter Ian Rapoport.
The reported offer could have significant changes for the Ravens offensive line this offseason, as it would likely mean that the team would look to move on from offensive tackle Eugene Monroe either by releasing him or through a trade and would put Osemele as the Ravens' starting left tackle in 2016, according to ESPN's Jamison Hensley. "It's a really aggressive deal," Ravens head coach John Harbaugh said at the NFL Combine Thursday, via ESPN. "I think it shows a lot of respect to K.O. (Osemele). It shows him that we really want him here, and hope that he takes it."
The Ravens aren't the only ones who want Osemele on their roster for the 2016 season, as the Oakland Raiders, San Francisco 49ers and New York Jets are all interested in the coveted offensive lineman, according to Tony Pauline of Walter Football. The Raiders could be in play, as they are looking to bolster their offensive line this offseason and have the second most cap space in the NFL heading into the 2016 season.
The 49ers are not too far behind with the sixth most cap space, but they are reportedly getting offensive tackle Anthony Davis back next season, as he will apply for reinstatement to the league. The Jets are also looking to improve their offensive line this offseason, but it's unknown if the team would be willing to use a large portion of their limited cap space on Osemele, especially given their other free agents this offseason.
The Ravens will now have to wait to hear a decision from their coveted offensive lineman, and they will still have to make a decision on Monroe, as they could look to move on from him even if they aren't able to re-sign Osemele. "I'm sure he's shopping the deal," Harbaugh said. "I hope he says, 'You know what, I know what the Ravens are all about. I know they believe in me. I know what kind of football they want to play. And I feel like I'm part of this thing for a long time, like Marshal Yanda has done."
The Ravens were decimated with injuries last season from quarterback Joe Flacco to wide receiver Steve Smith to starting running back Justin Forsett. It will be interesting to watch how this unfolds in Baltimore, but if Osemele hit the market, expect multiple teams to make pitches to the 6-foot-5, 330-pound offensive lineman, as many franchises would be happy to have him on their offensive line in 2016.
