Ravens Free Agency Decision: Franchise Tag DT Justin Madubuike?

Baltimore Ravens defensive tackle Justin Madubuike had a breakout season, but now with his rookie contract up, what will the franchise do with one of its most productive defensive weapons?

The Baltimore Ravens had arguably the best defense in football as they suffocated opposing offenses, and took the ball away at will. Not to mention sacking quarterbacks for fun (60, led the NFL).

One key piece of Baltimore's defensive prowess was defensive tackle Justin Madubuike. He led the Ravens in sacks (13.0), tackles for loss (12), and quarterback hits (33) en route to his first Pro Bowl nod.

But now, after a season of superb production, Madubuike is slated to be a free agent and will command a hefty salary and ESPN writes that the franchise tag, instead of a long-term contract feels like the way things will shake out this offseason.

"Madubuike was arguably the biggest breakout in the league this season, becoming the NFL's best interior pass-rusher," ESPN writes. "He had 13 sacks in his contract year after totaling 8.5 sacks combined in his first three seasons.

"The Ravens, who have tried to sign Madubuike to a new deal, are expected to place the franchise tag on him to keep him from becoming a free agent. The tag, which was around $19 million for defensive tackles last year, would limit what an already-cap-limited team (the Ravens are $638K over the projected cap) can do in free agency."

USA Today

Per spotrac.com, Madubuike's market value is $20.3 million APY which based on his production this season, is more than warranted. However, given the Ravens' salary cap issues and the fact that Patrick Queen, Jadeveon Clowney, Kevin Zeitler, Geno Stone, and others are all free agents too, something has to give.

Madubuike had a career-best season in a contract year as he dominated the league early days, registering 12 sacks in his first 14 games as he burst onto the scene.

Ravens DT Shows Off in Contract Season

That kind of production warrants a new contract, but given the other team needs, as ESPN suggests, placing the franchise tag on Madubuike might be the road to go down.

One of the best players on the league's best defenses is out of contract and looking to get paid, but it feels like Madubuike may have to wait a little longer to get that long-term bumper contract.