CBS Sport: Ravens close in to sign Bears mega star in a blockbuster deal.
Pro Bowler Yannick Ngakoue might be signed by the Baltimore Ravens or Carolina Panthers in the wake of Kyle Van Noy and Derrick Brown’s devastating injuries. The Ravens are being pushed by a Bleacher Report to find a Van Noy replacement, which may require adding a familiar player back into the starting lineup.
It shouldn’t come as a surprise if the Ravens target Ngakoue for a one-year contract while Van Noy heals from an orbital bone fracture because he is familiar with the defensive scheme. Ngakoue is likely their last choice because trading for a pass rusher is the only other option because there aren’t many elite pass rushers available on the free-agent market.
Although Haason Reddick is holding out, Baltimore may consider making a trade for him; nonetheless, it would be simpler if they signed a free agent. In the event that Reddick doesn’t get the deal he wants, the Ravens wouldn’t want to take a chance on unrest in their locker room.
Ngakoue hasn’t gotten much attention, but since some teams will require reinforcements, this might not be his final destination. In order to be a part of a potent defense, the veteran may find the long-term stability he seeks in Baltimore.
It’s surprising that the Maryland product is still available, though, considering that he recorded four sacks in 13 games last season. Given how urgently teams like the Panthers need assistance, it might be for a while. With a supporting cast for the offense, it’s simple to assume that Carolina’s season is finished after the first week.
The Panthers’ lopsided loss against the Saints left them without any solutions. According to one source, Derrick Brown, a defensive lineman, had a season-ending injury, severely hurting the team’s pass-rushing ability. His recuperation has no set timetable, but since agreeing to a new deal, he has been the defensive core. They added experienced Jadeveon Clowney, but they still need assistance finding a replacement to give the defense some life.
