Andrews is in the last year of his four-year, $56 million contract. His future is now up in the air, providing a mood in its own right. The three-time Pro Bowler has turned into the straw that stirs the drink for the team. He’s most notable as the favorite target of quarterback and league MVP Lamar Jackson. With a salary cap number of $16.9 million, which ranks third on the roster, the team must evaluate its options moving forward.
Andrews, who averaged 39.6 receiving yards per game last season, has had a stellar career to this point. His least productive season in terms of receiving yards was his rookie season of 2018. Despite that, he has risen to rank third in franchise history with 436 receptions and second with 5,530 receiving yards. This past season, he broke his own franchise record with 18 touchdowns. With this accomplishment, he passed former running back Jamal Lewis for most touchdowns in Ravens history, with a career total of 51 touchdowns.
On March 17, the Ravens made a commitment to Andrews by deciding to pick up his $4 million roster bonus. This extension speaks volumes about their intention to retain him for the long haul. There’s still plenty of uncertainty about whether Andrews will be back in Baltimore after this year. General Manager Eric DeCosta gave his insight into the situation.
“I never know what’s going to happen,” – Eric DeCosta
DeCosta acknowledged Andrews’ contributions to the team, stating, “He’s played his butt off for us.” His remarks further illustrate how important and valuable the tight end has become as a position. They further emphasize his leadership presence in the locker room. Andrews’ competitiveness, talent, attitude, and leadership have not gone unnoticed by the Ravens’ management.
Even Ravens head coach John Harbaugh commented on Andrews being a long-term solution with the team and showed his confidence in Andrews.
“I do fully expect him to be playing for us next year,” – John Harbaugh
As the Ravens prepare for the upcoming season, they face a critical decision regarding Andrews’ long-term future. The tight end has shown resilience and dedication throughout his career, earning respect from both coaches and teammates alike. More than anything else, Harbaugh called Andrews a warrior—an homage to his boozer brawler specialist work ethic and all-consuming dedication on the gridiron.
Andrews’ accomplishments are already remarkable, as he’s broken almost every record during his short career with the Ravens. He’s still an extremely important piece of the team’s success. As he approaches free agency next year, the organization must navigate its financial commitments carefully while considering how best to retain a player of his caliber.
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