The Baltimore Ravens’ 2022 draft class was a major success, with standout players like safety Kyle Hamilton and center Tyler Linderbaum making an immediate impact.
However, the success of that draft class presents a financial challenge for the team moving forward. As these young stars become eligible for new contracts, the Ravens will face significant cap space concerns.
One player who could be in line for a big payday is defensive lineman Travis Jones, a third-round pick from UConn. While his stats may not jump off the page—102 tackles, 9 tackles for loss, and 3.5 sacks over three seasons—Jones’ impact on the field is undeniable. At 6-4 and 338 pounds, he is a dominant force in the middle of the defense, taking up space and freeing up opportunities for his teammates.
His strong performance against high-quality opponents, such as the Eagles’ interior line, highlights his ability to disrupt the run game. In fact, his contribution was vital in limiting Saquon Barkley to just 4.7 yards per carry in their matchup.
The Athletic’s Daniel Popper ranked Jones as the No. 27 potential free agent in 2026, noting his upside as both a run defender and a pass rusher. While Jones is a powerful presence against the run, his pass rush could still be improved, as he tends to struggle when facing double teams. If he can elevate his pass-rush production, he could secure a significant contract.
However, the Ravens’ financial situation complicates matters. Not only do they need to find room for extensions for Hamilton, Linderbaum, and other key players, but they’ve already committed to a significant deal for fellow defensive lineman, Nnamdi Madubuike, who received a four-year, $98 million extension last offseason. Paying two high-priced defensive linemen could stretch the Ravens’ cap space thin, making it challenging to retain both Jones and Madubuike.
As the 2026 offseason approaches, the Ravens will have some tough decisions to make regarding their cap space, and Travis Jones could very well be one of the players they find it difficult to keep.