Key Takeaways:
– Baltimore Ravens might need to add a right tackle to their offensive line before the 2024 season begins.
– The current right tackle line-up is chiefly composed of rookies and players with limited experience.
– General Manager Eric DeCosta might turn to veteran options to bolster the team’s offensive line-up.
Ravens’ Upcoming 2024 Season
Just a month away from training camp, every NFL team, including the Baltimore Ravens, is working hard to address potential gaps in their team. There’s a lot of speculation and discussion around the Ravens’ offensive line, which saw considerable changes recently. Matt Holder, an analyst at Bleacher Report, believes they have some more augmentations to do before the 2024 season begins.
Priority: Right Tackle Position
Holder’s primary advice for the Ravens is to bring in a new right tackle. Roger Rosengarten, seen by the Bleacher Report Scouting Department as a newbie, is predicted to start at right tackle for the 2024 season but brings certain concerns. As a rookie drafted in the second round of the 2024 draft, Rosengarten lacks any NFL experience, which could be a risk for a team with championship ambitions.
Depth Chart Issues
Holder noted that Daniel Faalele, who sits behind Rosengarten on the depth chart, has had an unremarkable career to date. This is why General Manager Eric DeCosta could be searching for a more seasoned player to strengthen the squad before training camp begins. Holder suggests that another right tackle who can compete for the starting position would be a clever move for the front office.
Changes in the Ravens’ Offensive Line
Quarterback Lamar Jackson will see mostly new teammates on the offensive line this season. Out of the five starters from the 2023 season, only two will be returning—left tackle veteran Ronnie Stanley and center Tyler Linderbaum.
Stanley, previously one of the top tackles of NFL, has struggled with injuries over the last four seasons, threatening his position. Similarly, Linderbaum has been evolving into one of the top centers in the NFL. However, the Ravens lost Morgan Moses, their 2024 right tackle, to the New York Jets due to salary cap constraints.
Arrival of New Faces, Exit of Old
New faces appearing on the team include guards Kevin Zeitler and John Simpson. However, Patrick Mekari, who was a useful swing option last season, will likely stick to filling in for Stanley. This season, the Ravens also welcomed Josh Jones, although he has struggled with consistency throughout his career.
Possible Options for the Position
Although the choices are limited, there are some possible veteran additions that DeCosta can consider. D.J. Humphries, former Arizona Cardinals tackle, remains available and has played both right and left tackle. Billy Turner, another veteran, is a free agent and could be a possible addition.
The final option would be to wait for player releases during the training camp. However, this approach comes with the risk of a shorter adjustment period for new team members.
As the offseason proceeds, how the Ravens adapt to these necessary improvements will be fascinating to observe. With the right enhancements and strategic hires, they could very well be in a strong position for the approaching 2024 season.