Ravens 'Hopefull' For Long-Term Deal With Justin Madubuike

The Baltimore Ravens have some big decisions to make this offseason, but maybe none bigger than what to do with defensive tackle Justin Madubuike.

The Baltimore Ravens have some big decisions to make this offseason, but maybe none bigger than what to do with defensive tackle Justin Madubuike.

Madubuike is No. 5 on Pro Football Talk's list of top free agents, but Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta might not let it get that far.

Baltimore Ravens defensive tackle Justin Madubuike (92) / USA Today

At the NFL Scouting Combine on Tuesday, DeCosta told media members that he's working to get a deal done with the former Texas A&M Aggies standout.

“We’re trying to get a deal done,” DeCosta said. “We’ve had discussions with Justin. He’s a guy that has obviously put himself in a fortuitous position this year by the way that he played. Had a great season for us, he’s a valued player on the team and we’re hopeful we can get a long-term deal done.”

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But if a deal can't get done, DeCosta indicated Baltimore will "probably" use the franchise tag on Madubuike before the March 5 deadline. Not only would that keep the 26-year-old in Baltimore short-term, but it would also extend the negotiating window until mid-July.

Madubuike started all 17 games for the Ravens last season and registered career highs across the board with 13 sacks, 56 total tackles with 38 solo, 12 tackles for loss, 33 quarterback hits and one forced fumble.