Keaton Mitchell Doesn't Get Restricted Free Agent Tender From Ravens Keaton Mitchell is set to become an unrestricted free agent after the Baltimore Ravens opted not to tender him a restricted free agent offer, according to reports from The Athletic's Jeff Zrebiec. The decision means Mitchell will be eligible to sign with any team in the upcoming NFL draft. The Ravens had the option to tender Mitchell a restricted free agent contract, which would have required them to match any offer sheet from another team. A right of first refusal tender for Mitchell would have cost the team $3.52 million for a single season. However, the Ravens chose not to pursue this path, leaving Mitchell to explore opportunities elsewhere. This decision comes amid the team's financial constraints, as they already have significant cap commitments in their backfield. Running back Justice Hill, who will carry a $3.8 million salary cap figure in 2026, is a key part of the Ravens' offensive plan. Hill is viewed as a more reliable option compared to Mitchell, particularly as a pass-catcher. The Ravens have struggled to find consistent playing time for Mitchell, often requiring them to take Hill out of the game to accommodate him. Mitchell's career has been marked by flashes of brilliance but also by recurring injuries. As an undrafted rookie in 2023, he averaged 8.4 yards per carry, the highest among all NFL running backs that season. However, a late-season knee injury derailed his rookie campaign, limiting his playing time in 2024. Last season, Mitchell played in 13 games but was a healthy scratch for some contests early in the year. He finished with 341 rushing yards and one touchdown (5.8 yards per attempt) while catching nine passes for 63 yards.#baltimore_ravens #the_athletic #nfl_draft #keaton_mitchell #justice_hill
