Former Baltimore Ravens running back Keaton Mitchell claimed that the organization never contacted him or his agent during free agency.
The Baltimore Ravens had a tumultuous free agency period, as they lost multiple starters to other teams. One of the biggest losses was center Tyler Linderbaum, who garnered a $27 million per-season contract from the Las Vegas Raiders.
Despite the huge losses, one player that was shockingly not brought back was running back Keaton Mitchell. The back spoke about the situation during media availability with the Los Angeles Chargers, and he claims that the Ravens never contacted him or his agent during free agency.
When Mitchell was asked about being surprised that he was not offered at least a tender by the Ravens, he said, "I was surprised, I ain't gonna lie."
Mitchell also explained that he was waiting for the organization to call him, but that never happened. He thought about buying a truck to help plow his driveway, but did not end up doing so due to not being offered a deal with his former team.
Mitchell ended the 2025 season with 404 yards and one touchdown from scrimmage. After a rookie season that included 489 yards and two touchdowns from scrimmage, including an 8.4 yards per carry average, the running back never quite emerged as a solid playmaker.
Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta broke down a bit why the back was not retained on 105.7 The Fan, indicating that his skill set simply did not match up with what the team is trying to accomplish in 2026.
"He was going to make over $3 million this year, based on the restricted free agency system, the tender," DeCosta said. "Not a real special teams guy. A talented space runner. He's not necessarily the most dynamic pass-catching back. And he's not a pass protector. He's a runner. He's a really, really skilled running back. But then it becomes, well, would you rather have Derrick [Henry] on the field or Keaton?
"These are hard choices to make because he's a great dude and he's an awesome talent," DeCosta added.
Despite Mitchell still being young in his career, the Ravens chose instead to move in a different direction. Derrick Henry still leads the way, and Justice Hill is now the second back.
Additionally, Baltimore also brought in Adam Randall, who figures to be an ascending player who can carve out a significant role. Randall was drafted personally by owner Steve Bisciotti.
The Clemson back played wide receiver for the first three years of his collegiate career, but transitioned into a running back in 2025. Following the position change, he exploded with 1,068 and 13 yards from scrimmage. This includes 814 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns.
Though Mitchell could have emerged in a bigger way, he is now with the Chargers, who will face the Ravens in his "revenge game" in 2026.