:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/29265941/160614542.0.jpg)
The Baltimore Ravens underwent a roster overhaul last offseason right after winning the Super Bowl. It looks like their ready to make more changes this year after missing the playoffs last year, and it will begin with the release of inside linebacker Jameel McClain and fullback Vonta Leach:
The #Ravens will release fullback Vonta Leach and LB Jameel McClain, per sources. Not official but should be soon.
— Jeff Zrebiec (@jeffzrebiecsun) February 27, 2014
Bengals offensive coordinator Hue Jackson has made it clear he wants a true fullback on the roster next year in order to enhance the run game. They may kick the tires on Leach, but after grading-out as the second-worst fullback (-7.1) in 2013 by PFF, their probably better off looking elsewhere. Leach simply looks like his career is near the end of the road.
The Ravens did save $4.9 million by cutting those two, and now they'll have more room to negotiate deals for impending free agents Dennis Pitta and Eugene Monroe:
Ravens in active talks with Eugene Monroe and Dennis Pitta. No deals imminent. Have work to do on both to get something done, per sources
— Aaron Wilson (@RavensInsider) February 27, 2014
They'll do everything in their power to get a deal done before free agency, especially for Monroe, who's expected to have a nice market for his services.