Baltimore, Th – April 17, 2025
The Baltimore Ravens are poised to fortify their offensive line, with projections pointing to a potential signing of a veteran lineman to protect quarterback Lamar Jackson in 2025. After a 12-5 season and a narrow playoff loss, the Ravens aim to address vulnerabilities in their interior line, ensuring their star quarterback thrives against elite defenses.
Lamar Jackson, the 2024 NFL MVP runner-up, faced 28 sacks last season, ranking 17th league-wide. While Jackson’s mobility mitigates pressure, the Ravens’ guard play exposed him to consistent interior rushes. With left tackle Ronnie Stanley secured via a three-year, $60 million extension, attention shifts to upgrading the guard position to complement center Tyler Linderbaum.
Industry analysts project the Ravens will target a seasoned free agent with seven years of starting experience across multiple teams. This lineman, a former second-round pick, started 62 games with the Denver Broncos and 19 with the Minnesota Vikings, earning PFWA All-Rookie honors in 2019. His versatility at both guard spots makes him an ideal fit for Baltimore’s scheme.
The Ravens’ offensive line, anchored by Linderbaum, allowed 425 yards per game in 2024, tops in the NFL. However, inconsistent guard play from players like Ben Cleveland and Daniel Faalele prompted scrutiny. Adding a proven veteran would provide stability, giving Jackson more time to exploit defenses with his 4,172 passing yards and 41 touchdowns.
Financially, Baltimore is well-positioned, with $11.46 million in cap space, per Over the Cap. Signing a veteran guard aligns with General Manager Eric DeCosta’s cost-effective approach, avoiding the need to overpay for top-tier free agents. This move would also preserve the team’s 11 draft picks, including five in the first four rounds, for other needs like edge rusher or defensive back.
The strategic importance of this signing cannot be overstated. Jackson’s dual-threat ability—915 rushing yards in 2024—relies on a cohesive line to counter aggressive fronts like those of the Bills and Chiefs. A fortified interior would enhance play-action and deep passing to targets like Zay Flowers and Mark Andrews.
Critics may argue that relying on a veteran past his prime carries risks, especially if younger options like Cleveland show growth. Supporters, however, see this as a low-risk, high-reward move to maximize Jackson’s prime. The Ravens’ Super Bowl aspirations hinge on protecting their franchise quarterback.
As the 2025 season looms, Eric DeCosta’s pursuit of this lineman underscores Baltimore’s commitment to building around Lamar Jackson. Whether this signing materializes before training camp or post-draft, it signals the Ravens’ intent to dominate the AFC North and make a deeper playoff push.
