Breaking: In light of the new NFL kickoff rules, the Baltimore Ravens sign the first team of…………….

Breaking: In light of the new NFL kickoff rules, the Baltimore Ravens sign the first team of all-pro returners.

The Baltimore Ravens appear to be moving backwards this offseason rather than forwards following a very poor offensive performance to close off the season in their home defeat to the defending champs, the Kansas City Chiefs.

The Baltimore Ravens still want upgrades in their offensive playmaking.

Since the start of free agency, the AFC Championship finalists and top seed have lost not one, not two, but three starting offensive linemen; the lone addition made for depth is former Arizona Cardinals reserve tackle Josh Jones.

In addition, the Ravens have not improved their receiving group since losing veteran wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr., who decided not to sign with the team again.

Only the depressing 2021 first-round selection Rashod Bateman and seasoned journeyman speedster Nelson Agholor remain to be paired with rising sophomore sensation Zay Flowers.

But even if the Ravens haven’t made a bold offensive acquisition—that is, prior to the draft—they have recently added a playmaker who could be essential for another unit on the field, according to Tom Pelissero.

Deonte Harty Bringing A+ Return Ability To The Baltimore Ravens’ Special Teams Unit

In his first season as a punt returner for the New Orleans Saints, Deonte Harty made the Pro Bowl and was named to the First Team All Pro. He had an incredible start to his NFL career.

Despite a few off-field problems, Harty agreed to a $13.5 million, two-year contract with the Buffalo Bills. However, despite playing in nearly every game, he was let go this summer for not living up to his early career brilliance, as seen by his career-low return yard total of 330.

The Maryland native only made a meaningful offensive contribution to the Saints in 2021, recording 570 receiving yards. However, since the new kickoff regulations go into effect in 2024 and give teams a reason to return kickoffs once again, established kick returners like Harty have seen a sharp rise in value.

Baltimore still needs improvement at receiver and on the offensive line, but this addition might help inject some much-needed energy at a potentially pivotal moment later in the upcoming campaign.