Thanks to a lack of agreement between the Players Association and the NFL we are amidst an uncapped season. One of the stipulations to the uncapped year is the "Final 8", a rule that limits the free agent signing freedom of the surviving eight teams of last year's playoffs. For the Ravens who lost in the divisional round of the playoffs, this means they can only sign one unrestricted free agent who's first year salary is more than $5.5 million.
This rule only stands until July 24 when the Dallas Cowboys opens up their training camp. After this point, the Ravens can sign whomever they like.
So far this offseason the final 8 rule has not seriously crippled the Ravens' offseason activity. The Ravens have signed four non-rookie free agents: wide receiver Dante Stallworth, defensive lineman Cory Redding , defensive back Travis Fisher and kicker Shayne Graham (officially signed today) this offseason. Anquan Boldin does not fall under this stipulation because he was acquired via trade not via free agency.
These four free agency players are all very good acquisitions in one way or another. Unless, God forbid, a key contributor gets hurt, I do not think we will see any high profile players signed to the roster but what do you think?
What players do you think the Ravens should look at? Is there anyone worth signing now? Who will be left once that July 24 date arrives?
It is important to note that at this time last year, Derrick Mason was a retired player and the Ravens had not go-to receiver. Things change in between minicamp and training camp. Watch for the changes to the Ravens roster in the next two months.
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