With just days remaining before free agency starts in the NFL, Ravens fans across the world are beginning to get very nervous waiting for Haloti Ngata to hopefully extend his contract and become a Raven for life. Most predict the deal will be finalized shortly but somehow I wouldn’t be shocked if he explored his options.
It reminds me of when the beloved Ray Lewis travelled to Dallas to discuss his future with Jerry Jones. Although Ray ended up staying with Baltimore throughout his entire career, the moments were tense as we collectively held our breath waiting to hear some good news. Haloti is the type of player who can immediately make an impact on any team he goes to, a trait that few Ravens players have currently.
The times of Ed Reed and Ray Lewis anchoring our backfield is a distant memory, Ngata is that cornerstone we confide in. When he went down last year our run stoppage stunk. The proof is in the pudding, without the longtime Raven, Baltimore can kiss that longstanding defensive powerhouse label goodbye.
Yes the young studs like Brandon Williams and CJ Mosley have great potential to be the next leaders on the defensive end, it will just be a few more years before they are solidified as great players and athletes. Haloti brings so much to the table. A true difference maker, he is a true force to be reckoned with.
The secondary was ultimately the problem last season, causing the demise in the postseason game vs the Patriots. Ozzie will address this issue as he sees fit so the trust and confidence in him is strong in Ravens Nation. The only thing hanging over his head is the Ngata contract. He has repeatedly stated no player is bigger than the team and we seen that with Ray. Terrell Suggs was in the same position last year and signed a deal just when the fans anxiety reached and all time high. This year it should be close to the same.
Ngata was picked 12th overall in a draft where he should have been first. GMs across the league have said they regret not choosing the monster. One of the most versatile defenders, he can line up as a nose tackle, defensive end in a 3-4 setup, basically any place on the line this man proves his power and dominance.
So as the teams begin to cut veteran players, such as Vince Wilfork and A.J. Hawk, it shows no player is safe. This mixed with the uncertainty of Ozzie’s offseason plan makes for one heck of a waiting game. As a diehard Ravens fan I’ll be on edge until I see #92 ink that final deal.
