After free safety Ar’Darius Washington tore his Achilles earlier this month, it seemed like he wouldn’t return for the 2025 season. However, if there are no setbacks, he is set to make a miraculous return later this upcoming year for a potential playoff run for the Baltimore Ravens.
With Zach Orr using multiple safeties and rotating his defensive backs, they still could sign a free agent safety for depth despite drafting Malaki Starks in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Two big names stand out among the rest, as the third safety spot is key in this defensive scheme.
Julian Blackmon is my Top Pick due to Age
The former Indianapolis Colts starting strong safety is still on the market, as the 26-year-old is the most intriguing option since he can be versatile and also fill in at multiple defensive back positions. Kyle Hamilton is their starting strong safety, but their only major depth there is former late-round pick from last year, Sanoussi Kane.
Julian Blackmon could back up Hamilton while he is used closer to the line of scrimmage, and Blackmon has the experience to fit right into this defense. I will admit, he should have multiple suitors, as the former Indy safety is the clear top option with his market value (according to Spotrac).
The former third-rounder from 2020 dealt with multiple career injuries early but has 10 career interceptions, two forced fumbles, and sack and a half, 21 pass deflections, and 300 total tackles in five seasons. Blackmon is coming off his best two seasons, playing 15 and 16 games as a starter.
The play-making ball hawk could be useful for a team looking to make a run like the Baltimore Ravens. The versatile defensive back could play in the nickel or in the box if needed and can play single-high well enough.
Replacement Options for Ar’Darius Washington
The veteran free safety would be the next best option, as Justin Simmons spent time with the Atlanta Falcons in 2024. The 31-year-old is still on the market and had two interceptions, seven pass deflections, and 62 total tackles as a starter. For the Denver Broncos, he has 30 career interceptions and 64 career pass deflections in eight seasons.
Although former undrafted rookie Beau Brade made the team in 2024 and is now backing up first-round rookie Starks, there is an obvious void that signing a player like Simmons could fill. The experienced ball-hawk would give the Ravens another player who could roam center field in the middle of their defense, while freeing up players like Starks and Hamilton.
Other names to look out for at safety include veterans Vonn Bell, Marcus Maye, Jordan Whitehead, and Quandre Diggs. While one reunion definitely won’t happen with Marcus Williams, Chuck Clark, after a disappointing and injured season with the New York Jets, is on the market and could be of interest.
