The Baltimore Ravens attempted to address their wide receiver depth by trading a fifth-round pick to the Carolina Panthers for Diontae Johnson and a sixth-round pick before the 2024 trade deadline. However, just a month later, Johnson was suspended for conduct detrimental to the team after refusing to play during a Week 13 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles.
In response, Bleacher Report’s Alex Ballentine suggests the Ravens should target veteran wide receiver Noah Brown, currently with the Washington Commanders, as a free-agent addition. Ballentine believes Brown, an inexpensive and reliable player, would fit well with the Ravens’ offense without disrupting team chemistry. He notes that the Ravens don’t necessarily need a superstar, as tight ends Mark Andrews and Isaiah Likely help shoulder some of the offensive load. Brown, known for his deep-threat ability, could provide a solid complement to receivers Rashod Bateman and Zay Flowers.
Brown has emerged as a key contributor for the Commanders in 2024, ranking third on the team with 35 receptions for 453 yards and 1 touchdown. His most memorable moment came on October 27, 2024, when he caught a 52-yard Hail Mary touchdown pass from rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels to win the game against the Chicago Bears, a play now known as the “Miracle in Maryland.”
Brown’s NFL career has gained momentum over the past few years. After a successful college career at Ohio State, where he won a National Championship in 2015, he was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in 2017. Initially used mainly for special teams and blocking, Brown became a starting receiver in 2022, posting 43 receptions for 555 yards and 3 touchdowns. He continued to perform well with the Houston Texans in 2023, recording 33 catches for 567 yards and 2 touchdowns. After being released by the Texans, he signed with the Commanders in late August 2024 and is on track for his third straight season with over 500 receiving yards.