Football moves fast and sometimes faster than players can unpack their bags. Just a week after joining the Baltimore Ravens, veteran safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson is already back on the open market. His short-lived stint in Baltimore ended almost as quietly as it began, but it still managed to draw support from one of his new teammates.

When the news broke that the Ravens and Gardner-Johnson had mutually decided to part ways, Gardner-Johnson posted a thoughtful statement on X, expressing gratitude to his former teams, coaches, and fans. “Every experience has helped me grow both on and off the field,” he wrote. “I’m excited to keep working, improving, and continuing to play the sport I love.” Then wide receiver Zay Flowers took to social media to share the post with a simple message: “You gone be straight fam, keep grinding.”

Flowers’ comment serves as a reminder that in the NFL, respect goes beyond just a roster spot. Gardner-Johnson’s exit came after Baltimore opted not to elevate him from the practice squad for Sunday’s 17-3 loss to the Los Angeles Rams. The decision, described as “mutual and amicable,” was influenced by the team’s recent signing of safety Alohi Gilman, who made a strong impression with seven tackles in his debut. With limited spots available in the secondary, Gardner-Johnson’s chances of making the active roster quickly decreased.

2025 has been a rollercoaster for the former Super Bowl champion. He kicked off the year with the Houston Texans but was released after just three games. Then he signed with the Ravens in early October. Now, after two releases, he’s back on the hunt for a new team. Still, with Flowers’ public encouragement and Gardner-Johnson’s message of gratitude, the vibe surrounding his departure feels optimistic.

The Ravens’ struggles run far deeper than roster moves at the margins. Baltimore’s slow start has exposed issues across the board, from a shaky offensive line to inconsistent defensive pressure. It leaves the team searching for answers as the trade deadline looms. And while Gardner-Johnson’s exit grabbed headlines, it’s the state of the team that may ultimately decide how their season unfolds.

Kevin Zeitler reunion could be the move that saves the Ravens’ season

The Baltimore Ravens are facing a tough 1-5 record as they head into their bye week, and time is running out. While many are predicting a fire sale at the trade deadline, the team’s recent actions suggest they’re still in the fight for a playoff spot. To make that happen, shoring up the offensive line might be their best bet.

Enter Kevin Zeitler. The seasoned guard, who was a key player for the Ravens from 2021 to 2023, could be just what Baltimore needs right now. Zeitler earned his first Pro Bowl nod in his last season with the team. He was a reliable presence on the line. Since his departure, he’s continued to be one of the most dependable guards in the league. Currently, he has a 69.5 PFF grade, which places him 19th out of 109 qualifiers.

Zeitler’s current team, the Tennessee Titans, is also struggling at 1-5 and seems to be gearing up for a rebuild. With the 35-year-old on a one-year contract, a trade seems likely, and a return to Baltimore could be a perfect fit. The Ravens’ current guards, Andrew Vorhees and Daniel Faalele, have had their share of difficulties. It leaves Lamar Jackson exposed as he prepares to make his comeback from a hamstring injury in Week 8.

Meanwhile, Baltimore’s issues go beyond just their defense. The defensive line has struggled to create any pressure, even during their somewhat encouraging performance against the Rams. The front seven still can’t generate pressure. The edge rushers like Kyle Van Noy and David Ojabo haven’t been living up to expectations.

With the trade deadline on Nov. 4, the Ravens do not have a lot of time to make a move. Signing Zeitler would be their last hope effort, a decision that might just stabilize the offense and keep things from falling apart.