Are the Ravens ignoring a key WR upgrade at Lamar Jackson's expense?

Baltimore builds through the draft, and a point has to be made to the Ravens' wide receiving corps, potentially using a first- or second-round pick at wide receiver after lukewarm results in 2025. As the draft approaches, wide receiver is once again being labeled a "secondary need." But in today's NFL, can that really be the case?

Baltimore’s offense has often leaned heavily on the run game, raising questions about the consistency of its passing attack. Adding another dynamic receiver could unlock the full potential of the offense. Last season, the Ravens focused on a wide receiver corps that included Zay Flowers, Rashod Bateman, DeAndre Hopkins, Devontez Walker, Tylan Wallace, and LaJohntay Wester for the bulk of the season. Wester was also the primary punt return player. The disappointment began when Rashod Bateman had a down year and even missed the AFC North title game due to illness. After a career year in 2024, Bateman finished last season with 13 games played, 12 starts, 38 targets, 19 receptions, 224 yards receiving, and two touchdowns.

The Ravens are expected to pick up Flowers' $27.3 million fifth-year option after back-to-back Pro Bowls. Bateman is under contract through 2029 and has been the subject of trade talks following an injury-filled 2025 season. With Hopkins not expected to return, the depth behind the big two is limited. Walker is a touchdown machine but remains unproven heading into Year 3. Wester will again return punts, while Cornelius Johnson and Dayton Wade are likely to have roles on the practice squad. With Trey Hendrickson on the roster and John Simpson back, Baltimore could target a wide receiver in Round 1.

With a new contract expected for their quarterback, at some point, giving Lamar Jackson more weapons isn't a luxury—it's a necessity.

This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Are the Ravens ignoring a key WR upgrade at Lamar Jackson's expense?