Eric DeCosta emphasized his desire to retain good, young players as a pillar of his vision as the Ravens' general manager. Thus, DeCosta expects linebacker C.J. Mosley to be in purple and black next year.

Mosley is headed for free agency in March, but the Ravens have reportedly been in contract talks with his agent.

"I certainly hope that C.J. is back. I believe in my heart that he will be," DeCosta said Wednesday in his first press conference as GM.

DeCosta said the Ravens are having discussions about Mosley now and that they have "several different strategies in place." DeCosta was specifically asked whether using the franchise tag is an option and said "everything is on the table."

Inside linebackers are grouped in with outside linebackers/pass rushers when determining their franchise tag cost. It's estimated that it will be in the $16-17 million range this year, which would be an expensive option to keep Mosley locked in Baltimore for one more season.

Instead, the Ravens would ideally like to come to a long-term agreement with Mosley.