Could linebacker Patrick Queen’s time with the Baltimore Ravens be coming to an end soon? The franchise made a decision that surprised a few people when they opted not to exercise the fifth-year option on his rookie contract.
That means Patrick Queen, the No. 28 overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft out of LSU, is heading into the final year of his rookie deal and will be a free agent in 2024. But, could he end up on a different team before he hits free agency?
Matt Verdarame of Sports Illustrated certainly believes there is a chance it occurs. Patrick Queen was one of the players that could still switch teams this offseason in Verdarame’s opinion.
“Queen makes a lot of sense when you consider all the factors at play.
Last year, the Ravens traded for All-Pro linebacker Roquan Smith and then paid him $100 million on his five-year extension. In the spring, Baltimore declined Queen’s fifth-year option, making him a free agent after the upcoming season. Those two facts alone make it clear that should a team call about Queen, the Ravens would be obliged to listen.
While Baltimore may have soured on Queen, he has talent. In 2022 the former LSU star amassed 117 tackles and five sacks while playing 94% of the Ravens’ defensive snaps.”
Throughout the history of their franchise, the Ravens have built their defenses around linebackers. Roquan Smith is who they have committed to for the future, agreeing to a record-setting contract extension earlier this offseason.
Many thought that wouldn’t deter them from also retaining Patrick Queen at least for one more season, but that plan likely changed during the 2023 NFL Draft. When the Ravens were able to snag Trenton Simpson out of Clemson with their third-round pick, the writing was on the wall.
Turning only 24 in August and with some impressive performances already under his belt, there would likely be a strong market for Patrick Queen should Baltimore actually make him available. Alas, it is hard to imagine the Ravens pushing for a trade unless they are truly blown away by an offer.
With real Super Bowl aspirations, the Ravens will be looking to add to their roster, not take key pieces away. Even with Simpson in the fold, Patrick Queen is an important piece to their defensive scheme. Unless presented with an offer they cannot refuse, expect the LSU product to finish out his rookie deal in Baltimore before moving on in free agency in 2024.
