As the Baltimore Ravens gear up for the upcoming NFL season, General Manager Eric DeCosta is expressing confidence in cornerback Marlon Humphrey's potential for a strong comeback. After a disappointing performance last year, DeCosta believes that Humphrey will rise to the occasion in what is set to be a pivotal contract year for the player.
Humphrey, who signed a five-year, $97 million contract extension in 2020, is entering the final year of that deal. DeCosta highlighted the significance of this season for the cornerback, stating that the Ravens expect him to perform at a high level after he fell short of expectations in 2022. "He’s in the last year of his deal," DeCosta remarked. "I would say that he’s been a historic Raven in many ways. Multi-time All-Pro, highly competitive Pro Bowler, a leader here. I think he’s gonna have a great year. Had a great year a couple years ago. Didn’t have his best — he would say, I think he has said, he didn’t have a great year last year. I feel confident he’s going to rebound and have a great year this year."
It's not common in the NFL for a player to complete a full five-year contract extension, making Humphrey's situation particularly noteworthy. His cap hit this season exceeds $26 million, and the Ravens had the option to save a significant amount by releasing him. However, DeCosta's faith in Humphrey's abilities suggests that the team believes he will provide value that justifies his salary.
"Corners are hard to find, veteran corners who have played at a very high level are hard to find, and we’re excited to see him play this year," DeCosta added, emphasizing the importance of having experienced players in the secondary. The Ravens' defense has relied heavily on Humphrey's skills in the past, and a return to his All-Pro form would be crucial not only for the team's success but also for Humphrey's future contracts beyond this season.
A strong performance from Humphrey could significantly impact the Ravens' defensive strategies and overall effectiveness on the field. With the upcoming season posing a critical opportunity for him to showcase his talents, both the player and the organization are poised for what could be a defining year. If he can recapture his previous form, it would not only bolster the Ravens' defense but also set the stage for his next contract negotiations slated for 2027.
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