C.J. Mosley: Baltimore Ravens’ Former Star Linebacker Now a Prime Free Agent Returns to Ravens
Coming out of college, the Baltimore Ravens made a savvy choice in the 2014 NFL Draft by selecting C.J. Mosley with the 17th overall pick. From the moment he stepped onto the field as a rookie, Mosley showed he was destined for greatness.
In his debut season, Mosley wasted no time making an impact. He recorded an impressive 133 tackles and two interceptions, showcasing his ability to read offenses and stop plays in their tracks. His standout performance earned him a Pro Bowl selection in his very first year—a rare feat for a rookie.
Despite these accomplishments, Mosley narrowly missed out on Defensive Rookie of the Year honors, finishing second to none other than Aaron Donald, a player widely regarded as one of the greatest defensive talents of his generation. Given Donald’s dominance, Mosley’s runner-up status still speaks volumes about his impact.
Mosley’s early success was no fluke. Over the course of five seasons with the Ravens, he consistently delivered elite-level play. His blend of speed, strength, and football IQ made him the cornerstone of Baltimore’s defense.
Mosley earned four Pro Bowl nods in those five years, solidifying his reputation as one of the league’s top linebackers. His leadership and tackling prowess helped the Ravens maintain a defensive identity that fans came to expect—tenacious, physical, and disciplined.
In 2019, Mosley moved on to the New York Jets, where he has spent the last five seasons. While he’s remained a steady contributor, the magic he displayed in Baltimore hasn’t been quite the same. Mosley made the Pro Bowl just once during his time with the Jets, in 2022. Though his numbers remain respectable, the Jets’ struggles as a team have somewhat limited his ability to shine at the same level.
Now, as Mosley finds himself a free agent, speculation swirls about where he might land next. Many believe that the team that should pursue Mosley aggressively is none other than the Baltimore Ravens. Returning to Baltimore could be a perfect fit—both for Mosley and the Ravens defense.
The Ravens would gain a proven veteran presence who already understands their system and culture. Meanwhile, Mosley could thrive once more in a familiar environment where he’s been a proven star. With the Ravens looking to bolster their linebacker corps, signing Mosley would be a smart move that benefits both sides.
In a league where chemistry and experience are invaluable, a Mosley return to Baltimore could provide an immediate boost—and give Ravens fans a chance to see their former star back in purple, doing whathe does best.