Eugene Monroe and Baltimore Ravens "remain far apart" on contract talks

Baltimore Ravens offensive tackle Eugene Monroe could hit the open market on March 11 if the team is unable to reach an agreement. And according to Aaron Wilson with the Baltimore Sun, contract negotiations "remain far apart".

Although both sides are highly motivated to hammer out a deal and some progress has been made, sources say there's a significant gap to be bridged to reach a financial compromise.

The Ravens, who used their fourth and fifth-round picks to acquire Monroe from the Jacksonville Jaguars via an October trade, could apply the franchise tag prior to Monday's deadline hoping to extend their negotiation window, but it will cost them $11.654 million if an agreement isn't reached by the July 15 deadline (for franchise players to sign long-term extensions).

Monroe is rated as the second-best offensive tackle entering free agency, according to Pro Football Focus (excluding Jordan Gross who has already announced his retirement). According to one report, the Miami Dolphins could pursue Monroe, as well as Brandon Albert, who the Arizona Cardinals are interested in.

If the Ravens are unable to retain Monroe, Anthony Collins, Cincinnati's offensive tackle hitting free agency in March, comes into play. Along with the Ravens and Dolphins, the Arizona Cardinals, New York Giants, Atlanta Falcons, Oakland Raiders, Jacksonville Jaguars, Indianapolis Colts and New York Jets could be in the market for an offensive tackle.