The Baltimore Ravens have made another notable splash in free agency, adding a former All-Pro return man to their roster.
According to a report from Tom Pelissero and Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, the Baltimore Ravens are signing special teams weapon and wide receiver Deonte Harty to a one-year contract.
The speedy 5-foot-6 playmaker earned Pro Bowl and First-team All-Pro nods in 2019 as a member of the New Orleans Saints. That year, Harty led the NFL with 338 punt return yards (one punt return touchdown) along with 644 kick return yards.
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Harty will presumably take over as the Baltimore Ravens’ new lead return man following the departure of Devin Duvernay. The latter left to sign with the AFC rival Jacksonville Jaguars in free agency.
After four seasons with the Saints, Harty joined the Buffalo Bills last year. In 2023, Harty had 150 receiving yards and 323 punt return yards (including a 96-yard punt return touchdown).
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For his career, Harty has 1,075 punt return yards, two punt return touchdowns and 1,914 kick return yards. On offense, the 26-year-old has 79 receptions, 943 receiving yards, five receiving scores and 123 rushing yards.
Another Weapon For The Baltimore Ravens
The Baltimore Ravens have long fielded one of the best special teams units under head coach Jim Harbaugh, and Harty’s arrival ensures that they won’t miss a beat in the punt/kick return games.
Losing Duvernay was tough for the reigning AFC runner-ups, but the lightning-quick Harty is an ideal replacement for Lamar Jackson’s old friend. And though he’ll get most of his work in as a special teams player, don’t be surprised if offensive coordinator Todd Monken gets Harty involved in the Jackson-le offense.
The Ravens have lost more talent than they’ve gained this offseason, so adding Harty is a mini-win as the 2024 NFL Draft draws closer. We’ll see if GM Eric DeCosta has any more free agent moves up his sleeve before the draft.
