The Baltimore Ravens have made a decision regarding their top defensive tackle’s future just before the franchise tag deadline.
Unsurprisingly, Justin Madubuike, who was paid $2.7 million the previous season, will now receive $22 million for the 2024 season after Baltimore franchise-tagged him.
The main question regarding Madubuike’s future was whether he’d be tagged or get a long-term deal, with little concern of him ever leaving the Ravens.
It’s one less thing for Ravens fans to worry about as they head into the offseason following a disappointing AFC Championship game loss.
Madubuike isn’t going anywhere, and the team can now begin discussions on a long-term deal to keep him in town for years to come. The team has until mid-July to come to terms on a multi-year deal.
The 26-year-old broke out in 2023, recording a career-high 13 sacks on his way to being selected to both the Pro Bowl and the second team All-Pro.
Additionally, Madubuike received nine votes for Defensive Player of the Year.
Currently sitting just over the NFL’s raised salary cap, Baltimore will need to reallocate some funds in order to make room for Madubuike’s new contract.
The biggest benefit of this tag is that it lets guard Kevin Zeitler and standout linebacker Patrick Queen become free agents.
Other members of the roster hitting free agency are Odell Beckham Jr., J.K. Dobbins, Gus Edwards, and John Simpson.
