Between the 2023 and 2024 season, the Ravens had to replace three of their five starters across the offensive line. This included left guard John Simpson, right guard Kevin Zeitler, and right tackle Morgan Moses. Early in the season, it seemed like this could become a problem for a team looking to compete for a Super Bowl. Despite early concerns, the offensive line had completely melded together midway through the season. By the end of the season, the Ravens were top five in the league in sack rate, pass block win rate, and run block win rate. Unfortunately as we know, the NFL can also stand for “Not For Long,” and we could see more significant changes to the offensive line this offseason. Left tackle Ronnie Stanley and rookie tackle Roger Rosengarten are both key factors in what could happen. The Ravens’ decision regarding the offensive line will heavily influence their ability to address other positions during the offseason.
The first option for the Ravens is to keep Ronnie Stanley and try to make a deal that will favor both parties. Stanley played well last year, only giving up 35 pressures and 2 sacks on over 575 pass-blocking snaps. Per Spotrac, Stanley is projected to sign a 2-year, $41.3 million contract. This could be problematic for the Ravens, who are already low on cap space— as they have $17.1 million before cuts or contract restructuring. And this is especially problematic since other teams would pay top dollar for a player like Stanley. The Ravens also need talent in other positions, most notably in the secondary, wide receiver room, and pass rush. Picking up Stanley’s contract would significantly inhibit the Ravens’ ability to fill positions elsewhere, aside from the draft. Because of this, it will be important for the Ravens to decide just how much they value having that solid veteran piece within their offensive line.
Another option for the Ravens is to adjust their offensive line and select a new lineman in this year’s draft. If Stanley departs, rookie Roger Rosengarten would be the most likely candidate to replace him at left tackle. Rosengarten had an excellent rookie season, allowing only four sacks and 29 pressures on over 933 snaps in the regular season. He also has prior experience at left tackle, starting his first two years at Washington at the position before switching to right tackle in 2022. A key consideration for the Ravens is that this year’s draft class is widely regarded to have deep offensive line talent. One potential prospect is Ozzy Trapilo from Boston College. Trapilo impressed during the Senior Bowl and is a strong run blocker—exactly what the Ravens would need if they were in the market for a right tackle. Parting ways with Stanley and securing a solid replacement at right tackle could be the best long-term solution for the Ravens. However, that task is much easier said than done.
Whatever the Ravens decide regarding their offensive line, one thing is clear: They face a big decision. Should they take a risk on a draft pick, hoping to select the right player, or play it safe and keep their veteran tackle? It’s difficult to say because the Ravens have had success filling positions both through the draft and free agency. However, this particular draft class is especially talented along the offensive line. If the Ravens want to maximize the potential of their roster, I believe they should take a chance in the draft.
