Ozzie

Newsome

Newsome has ceded the general manager job to Eric DeCosta, but he is still involved in the evaluation process and even played a role in landing Earl Thomas in free agency. “He’s grinding tape,” DeCosta said. “He’s really been a valuable resource for me in terms of discussing players and what do you see. I think he’s really having fun with it.” One of the best GMs in NFL history, Newsome should continue to be a valuable voice for DeCosta.

The Ravens’ official transition from Newsome to Eric DeCosta has been in the works for a year. Newsome will remain with the team in a “significant role.” One of the best general managers of the 21st century, Newsome is already in the Hall-of-Fame as a player. He deserves to be there as an executive, too.

Using full pads at rookie camps violates the CBA. A Ravens official told ESPN “there was a five-minute period on May 6 when rookies and first-year players suited up in pads during a non-contact punt protection drill.” The Ravens “immediately pulled players off the field” when union rep Ben Watson informed them of the potential violation. If the Ravens are found to have violated the Collective Bargaining Agreement, they could risk losing a draft pick and/or be forced to pay a fine.

Compensatory picks began in 1996 as a means of “compensating” clubs for free-agent losses. Ozzie Newsome’s Ravens have been awarded more picks (41) than any team in football, and this year tied the Jets for the most comp picks. Baltimore picked up an additional third-rounder, two fourth-rounders, and a fifth-rounder in exchange for “losing” Paul Kruger, Dannell Ellerbe, Cary Williams, and Ed Reed in 2013 free agency. Put simply, that is robbery by Newsome.

Began in 1996, compensatory picks are intended to “compensate” teams for free-agent losses. The Ravens under Ozzie Newson have been the kings of the compensatory pick process, and they should earn several more this season after Pernell McPhee and Torrey Smith signed big free-agent deals elsewhere. This change will allow comp-pick conscious teams like the Ravens more flexibility on draft day.

He’ll transition into a consultant/evaluator role after the 2018 season. “He’ll be the highest paid scout in the league,” said Bisciotti. Newsome will be succeeded by Eric DeCosta, who has served as the Ravens’ assistant GM since 2012. It’s been a successful run for Newsome, who has led Baltimore to a pair of Super Bowls since joining the organization in 1996. However, after missing the playoffs four of the last five years, it may be time for a new voice to lead the front office.