The Baltimore Ravens didn't reach an agreement with any wide receivers by the start of free agency Thursday. So, when it came time to decide whether to pick up Mike Wallace's option for 2017, there really wasn't a decision.
Wallace will make $5.75 million this season (which includes a $1 million roster bonus) after re-establishing himself last season. In his first season with the Ravens, Wallace led the team with 1,017 yards receiving, his first 1,000-yard season since 2011. He also caught 72 passes and four touchdowns.
Holding onto Wallace doesn't come as a surprise because coach John Harbaugh said last week that he anticipated him being on the team this season.
"Mike Wallace was a big, integral part of our team last year," Harbaugh said last week.
Baltimore had to keep Wallace considering the lack of depth at receiver after Steve Smith Sr. retired and Kamar Aiken hit free agency. Wallace and Breshad Perriman are the only two receivers on the Ravens roster who caught more than 10 passes last season.
The Ravens' other wide receivers are: Chris Moore, Michael Campanaro, Chris Matthews, Keenan Reynolds, Vince Mayle, and Kenny Bell. They have combined for 197 yards receiving.
Wallace's $8 million cap hit ranks fourth on the team behind quarterback Joe Flacco, cornerback Jimmy Smith and guard Marshal Yanda.
