Ever wonder what happens to talented players after NFL roster cuts? Some find new homes faster than you can say “touchdown”! Learn how ex-Ravens like Jalyn Armour-Davis and Beau Brade swiftly transitioned to the Titans and Giants, respectively. It’s a game of musical chairs, but for professional athletes – and the music never truly stops, does it?
The rigorous process of finalizing an NFL roster invariably leads to difficult decisions, and the Baltimore Ravens’ recent adjustments to their 53-man squad proved no exception, resulting in the departure of several talented players. While many of those released found their way back to the Ravens’ practice squad, a notable cohort was swiftly claimed by other teams, eager to bolster their own lineups with proven, albeit recently cut, talent.
Among the most prominent names making an immediate move was fourth-year cornerback Jalyn Armour-Davis, whose unexpected release sent ripples through the league. Despite showcasing strong performances during the preseason and training camp, Armour-Davis was ultimately squeezed out due to a highly competitive secondary. Recognizing his potential, the Tennessee Titans wasted no time, utilizing their top waiver priority to secure the former Alabama product for their defense.
Armour-Davis’s appeal extends beyond his collegiate pedigree; his raw athletic talent, favorable physical profile, and significant upside made him a sought-after commodity. Prior to the Titans’ claim, the New Orleans Saints, Miami Dolphins, and even the reigning champion Philadelphia Eagles had also registered waiver claims, underscoring the high regard held for his abilities across the NFL landscape. This intense competition for his services highlights the strategic value teams place on developing promising young defensive backs.
However, Armour-Davis’s professional journey has not been without its challenges, primarily concerning his durability. Over his three seasons in the league, he has appeared in just 19 games, a statistic punctuated by four separate stints on injured reserve. His ability to remain consistently healthy will undoubtedly be a critical factor in his success with the Titans and a key focus for both the player and his new organization.
Another significant departure from the Ravens’ secondary was safety Beau Brade, a fan-favorite who had made the team as an undrafted free agent out of Maryland the previous year. Brade, like Armour-Davis, fell victim to a numbers game in a deep Ravens defensive backfield, with the team opting for other talents. Fortunately for the rising sophomore, his impressive skill set quickly attracted attention, leading him to a new home with the New York Giants.
Brade’s local ties had endeared him to the Baltimore faithful, but strong showings from younger competitors like Keyon Martin and Reuben Lowery ultimately led to his release. Nevertheless, his proven special teams capabilities and solid safety play provide valuable upside for the Giants. It’s worth noting that the Jacksonville Jaguars also attempted to claim Brade, further cementing his perceived value and demonstrating the competitive nature of NFL roster cuts decisions across the league.
Beyond the secondary, other notable players found new destinations. Defensive linemen C.J. Ravenell also made the move to the Tennessee Titans, joining Armour-Davis, while Jayson Jones was claimed by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. These moves underscore the fluid nature of Baltimore Ravens news during the critical roster finalization period, as teams continuously assess and re-tool their squads.
Interestingly, this year’s seventh-round pick, offensive lineman Garrett Dellinger, was not claimed by another team on waivers. Instead, Dellinger opted not to join a practice squad, choosing to pursue other opportunities. The Ravens’ decision to retain offensive linemen Corey Bullock and Ben Cleveland as primary backup interior options, with third-round pick Emery Jones Jr. slated to return from injury, illustrates the team’s strategic depth at the position.
The annual culling of NFL roster hopefuls is a stark reminder of the league’s cutthroat competition, where every player’s future hangs in the balance. For those like Jalyn Armour-Davis and Beau Brade, these transitions represent fresh starts and new opportunities to prove their worth with their respective new teams, the Tennessee Titans and New York Giants, as the 2024 season approaches.
