Geno Stone, a safety for the Baltimore Ravens, hopes to remain with the team in free agency. However, he understands that ultimately, it’s a business decision.
Stone wants to be valued and given the opportunity to start. He was selected by the Ravens in the seventh round of the 2020 NFL Draft but had a challenging rookie year.
#Ravens safety Geno Stone on free agency:
“At the end of the day, Baltimore is always home, but business is business.”
“I just want to be somewhere I’m appreciated…who wants me and for me to be a starter, whatever it may be. I just want my value to be there.”
Where will he… pic.twitter.com/OKRtQaHdD1
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) February 21, 2024
After being waived and claimed by the Houston Texans, he didn’t see any playing time. Stone returned to the Ravens in 2021, initially as a reserve and special teamer, but eventually became a full-time starter.
In the 2023 season, he excelled, recording seven interceptions, nine passes defended, and 68 tackles. Heading into free agency, Stone has a chance to secure a significant contract, especially for teams that utilize three-safety formations.
Former teammate Anthony Levine, who also had to overcome his draft status, played a pivotal role in Stone’s development. The Ravens have several key free agents on defense, including Stone, and their decisions will impact whether he stays in Baltimore or explores other opportunities.
Stone had a breakout season in 2023 and aims to capitalize on it during negotiations with the Ravens or other potential suitors. While he would be content remaining in Baltimore, he emphasized that his role and salary will play a crucial role in his decision-making process. Stone values being appreciated and wants his worth to be recognized.
The Baltimore Ravens will need to prioritize their key defensive players this offseason, including safety Geno Stone, who had a breakout season in 2023.
Stone is coming off a strong campaign where he played in all 17 games, recording 68 tackles, nine pass breakups, and seven interceptions. He hopes to be rewarded with a significant pay raise but understands that business is business, and he may need to look elsewhere for the right opportunity.
Stone had a rocky start to his career, being waived by the Ravens in 2020 before returning in 2021. However, his performance in 2023 has garnered attention, with Spotrac projecting a potential contract worth $7.2 million annually.
The Ravens, who have limited salary cap space, will need to manage their finances to retain their free agents. The Seattle Seahawks, led by former Ravens defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald, could be a potential landing spot for Stone if he doesn’t stay in Baltimore.
Stone’s journey in the NFL has been one of hard work and perseverance, with his playing time gradually increasing each season. In 2022, he became a regular part of the Ravens’ defensive plans, playing in all 17 games and starting five. It was in 2023 that stone truly shined, playing in all 17 games and starting 11, with a significant increase in defensive snaps.
He made the most of his playing time, recording seven interceptions and nine pass breakups. As he heads into free agency for the first time, Stone desires to be in a situation where he is appreciated and valued. While he considers Baltimore home, he knows that the NFL is a business, and he wants his value to be recognized.
Stone’s previous experience of being waived by the Ravens and claimed by the Houston Texans before returning to Baltimore has shaped his perspective. With several key Ravens players becoming free agents, including Stone, the team faces the challenge of retaining their talent while managing their finances.
It remains to be seen if Stone will be a priority for the Ravens or if another team will entice him with a strong offer.
Fans reacted as follows:
Goooooooo Ravens 🐦⬛
— QuestionQuest (@deucesofclub) February 21, 2024
Geno was one of the best safeties in the NFL this season
Contract Prediction: $6.5-10m AAVhttps://t.co/ES4IHrSI5j
— Free Agency Frosty (@FrostyTalksFB) February 21, 2024
