Expanding their options at edge rusher is a logical move for the Baltimore Ravens, especially with a potential trade target available on the market.
Seattle Seahawks edge rusher Boye Mafe is a name the Ravens should strongly consider, according to Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox. He argues that adding a young pass-rusher would be a smart investment, particularly given that last season’s sack leader, Kyle Van Noy, is 34 and set to become a free agent in 2026. With $6.3 million in cap space, Baltimore would benefit from targeting edge defenders still on rookie contracts.
Mafe fits that profile perfectly. The 26-year-old is an ascending talent who remains on his rookie deal, making him a cost-effective addition. He also brings familiarity with Baltimore’s defensive scheme, having played under former Ravens defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald in Seattle. Last season, Mafe recorded eight tackles for loss and 21 quarterback pressures, showing his ability to disrupt opposing offenses.
His knowledge of the Ravens’ system, combined with the uncertainty surrounding the team’s current pass-rushing group, makes him a compelling trade option. Adding Mafe could provide Baltimore with both immediate impact and long-term stability on the edge.
Boye Mafe Deal Worth Exploring
As Knox highlighted, Mafe put together a solid season, though his sack total dropped from nine to six. That shouldn’t discourage the Ravens, especially since Mafe has the physical tools and a versatile pass-rush approach that suggest even greater potential.
His ability to attack the pocket was on full display in Week 1 against the Denver Broncos. Mafe effectively used quick hand techniques against left tackle Garett Bolles while also showing the agility to bend around the edge and collapse the pocket.
This combination of technique and athleticism caught the attention of Taylor Kyles of Patriots on CLNS Media, who noted similarities between how Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald deployed Mafe and how he previously utilized Kyle Van Noy in Baltimore.
With Macdonald’s defensive influence still shaping the Ravens’ scheme, Mafe could seamlessly fit into their system, making him an even more intriguing trade target.
Van Noy remains a key playmaker, leading the Ravens with a career-high 12.5 sacks last season. However, at 34 years old, Baltimore must start planning for the future at edge rusher.
Mafe would be an ideal candidate to develop under Van Noy while providing an immediate boost to the pass rush. He has the potential to step in as a rotational piece early on and could even start opposite Van Noy if the Ravens make further adjustments at outside linebacker.
With his blend of youth, athleticism, and familiarity with Baltimore’s defensive concepts, Mafe could be both a short-term asset and a long-term solution for the Ravens’ front seven.
Ravens Have Choices to Make at Edge-Rusher
Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta still has several options to reshape the team’s edge-rusher rotation. One possibility includes trading a breakout player who hit double-digit sacks for the first time in 2024 but is set to enter free agency next year.
Such a move would further thin a group already weakened by Malik Harrison’s departure to AFC North rival Pittsburgh in 2025 free agency. His exit leaves the Ravens relying on 2022 second-round pick David Ojabo, who has struggled to stay healthy and see consistent playing time.
Baltimore still has Tavius Robinson, but despite his imposing 6-foot-6, 262-pound frame, his production has yet to catch up to his physical gifts. That leaves space for another impact edge defender—even if it requires DeCosta making a trade.
Boye Mafe presents a cost-effective solution, carrying a cap hit of just $2,724,352 this season, according to Spotrac. The Ravens, with $12,642,626 in cap space, could easily absorb his salary.
Seattle may be open to dealing Mafe after adding DeMarcus Lawrence to an edge group that already includes Leonard Williams and Derick Hall, as noted by Knox.
A low-cost deal for Mafe would give the Ravens a pass-rusher with untapped potential—one who could develop further under the guidance of Van Noy while contributing right away in Baltimore’s aggressive defensive scheme.
Leave a Reply