Suggs needs some hugs

Terrell Suggs may be the next linebacking leader of the Raven's defense, but only if he is actually in a Raven's uniform. Ozzie Newsome recently said that Suggs will be labeled with the franchise tag if he can't otherwise workout a long-term deal with the team. This means that Suggs would stand to make $8.065 million in 2008, but would become an unrestricted free agent after completing that contract.

Though Suggs has been known to get a penalty or two, he is invaluable to the Raven's defense both on and off the field. He can stop the run, protect against the pass, fill holes, and rush the QB. He can also be the eventual replacement for Ray Lewis in the linebacking core. Suggs is only in his fifth year, which means he has at least seven years left in the league barring any injuries. If the Ravens were able to lock down both him and Ed Reed in long-term deals, they would be the face of the franchise until their days are done in the NFL. Defense is the cornerstone of the team and Suggs is a cornerstone of the defense. It would be truly disappointing if Newsome isn't able to work out a deal to keep Suggs around for a long time. For more info check out ESPN's take.