Yanda deserving of big pay day

October 6, 2010

Another player that the Ravens will need to extend is Marshal Yanda. Yanda is currently playing under the terms of his restricted free agent deal and is set to become an unrestricted free agent in 2011 barring any unforeseen terms in a new collective bargaining agreement that might restrict his financial freedom.

Yanda is a Pro Bowl caliber guard now playing at a high level as a right tackle. The former Kirk Ferentz protégé is a perfect example of how a player short on physical tools can be extremely productive through preparedness, effort and attention to technique.

Coaches were extremely impressed with Yanda's effort against Pittsburgh's LaMarr Woodley and with that kind of productivity the team is in no rush to bring back Jared Gaither. It could even persuade the team to IR the enigmatic tackle to free up a roster spot should his back issues continue.