Two weeks after being arrested for DUI, Ravens guard Ben Cleveland files for divorce from his wife.

Ben Cleveland, a prominent offensive guard for the Baltimore Ravens, made headlines recently after filing for divorce from his wife, just two weeks after being arrested for driving under the influence (DUI). This turn of events has sparked widespread discussion regarding the challenges professional athletes face in their personal lives, especially when coupled with legal issues, public scrutiny, and the intense pressure of performing at the highest levels. Cleveland’s situation sheds light on the personal struggles that many public figures endure behind closed doors and serves as a reminder that even the most successful athletes are not immune to the complexities of relationships, legal battles, and life’s unexpected turns.

Ben Cleveland: The Athlete

Ben Cleveland, drafted by the Ravens in the 2021 NFL Draft, quickly gained recognition as a talented offensive lineman with the potential to become a cornerstone of the team’s offensive line. Standing at 6 feet 6 inches tall and weighing 357 pounds, Cleveland’s size and strength made him an intimidating figure on the football field. Before his professional career, Cleveland played college football at the University of Georgia, where he earned accolades for his performances as a starting guard.

In his rookie season, Cleveland’s performance on the field earned him significant praise from both teammates and coaches. As an offensive lineman, Cleveland’s job was to protect the quarterback and create running lanes for the team’s running backs. His physicality and technical prowess contributed to the success of the Ravens’ offense, and he quickly became a key player on the team.

However, despite his success in the NFL, Cleveland’s personal life took a dramatic turn after his arrest for DUI. This event, which garnered attention from sports media outlets, added an extra layer of complexity to his already demanding career. In addition to the on-field pressure to perform, Cleveland now faced the consequences of his actions, both legally and personally.

The DUI Incident

On February 19, 2025, Ben Cleveland was arrested for driving under the influence after being pulled over by law enforcement in Baltimore. According to police reports, Cleveland was observed driving erratically, prompting the officer to initiate a traffic stop. Upon further investigation, Cleveland reportedly showed signs of intoxication, including bloodshot eyes and a strong odor of alcohol. He was subsequently arrested and charged with DUI, a serious offense that carries legal consequences.

The incident quickly gained media attention, with news outlets covering the arrest and providing updates on the situation. As a high-profile NFL player, Cleveland’s arrest was scrutinized heavily, and the incident became part of the larger conversation about athletes and their personal behavior. While DUI arrests are not uncommon among public figures, the impact on Cleveland’s career, his reputation, and his personal life was significant.

Cleveland publicly acknowledged the incident, expressing regret and accepting responsibility for his actions. In a statement released by the Ravens, he apologized to his family, teammates, and fans, emphasizing that he was committed to learning from the mistake and seeking help. The Ravens organization also expressed their support for Cleveland, noting that they would work with him to ensure he addressed the issue and took the necessary steps to improve his behavior.

The Divorce Filing

Just two weeks after the DUI arrest, Ben Cleveland filed for divorce from his wife, Sarah Cleveland. The timing of the divorce filing raised questions about the potential impact of the DUI incident on their relationship. While it is impossible to fully understand the dynamics of their marriage, the timing of the divorce suggests that the arrest may have played a role in the breakdown of their relationship.

The divorce filing came as a shock to many, as the couple had been together for several years, and there had been little public indication that their relationship was struggling. The Clevelands were often seen together at social events and frequently posted pictures of their family on social media. As with many high-profile couples, their personal lives were often subject to public scrutiny, but the divorce filing marked a significant shift in their private lives.

The details surrounding the divorce filing are private, but it is not uncommon for significant life events, such as legal trouble or personal crises, to strain marriages. For many individuals, the stress and emotional toll of dealing with legal issues, public backlash, and the pressures of maintaining a professional career can create significant strain on relationships. In the case of Ben and Sarah Cleveland, it is possible that the combination of these factors contributed to their decision to separate.

The Impact of the DUI on Cleveland’s Personal Life

The DUI arrest marked a turning point in Cleveland’s life, both professionally and personally. On a professional level, the incident had the potential to damage his reputation and impact his standing with the Ravens and fans alike. While DUI arrests are not uncommon among NFL players, the public nature of the offense can be damaging to an athlete’s image. The NFL has a strict code of conduct, and players are expected to maintain a high standard of behavior both on and off the field. Cleveland’s arrest put his character and judgment under scrutiny, and he faced the possibility of disciplinary action from the league.

On a personal level, the DUI arrest and subsequent divorce filing highlighted the pressures that professional athletes face in their personal lives. The spotlight that comes with being a professional athlete often means that personal struggles are amplified and made public. Cleveland’s arrest and divorce filing became fodder for media outlets, which often sensationalize the personal lives of athletes. This public scrutiny can exacerbate the emotional strain that individuals experience during difficult times.

For Ben Cleveland, the combination of legal issues and a crumbling marriage must have been incredibly difficult to navigate. As an athlete who has worked hard to achieve success in the NFL, the emotional toll of such challenges could be overwhelming. The support of his teammates and the Ravens organization, however, was likely crucial in helping him cope with these difficulties.

Professional Athletes and Personal Struggles

The story of Ben Cleveland is not unique. Many professional athletes, particularly those in the public eye, face personal struggles that can have far-reaching consequences. The pressures of fame, the constant scrutiny from the media, and the demands of a professional career can create significant mental and emotional strain.

Athletes are often expected to perform at the highest level while maintaining a perfect public image. However, behind the scenes, they are still human beings with their own personal challenges, including relationship issues, family struggles, and mental health concerns. The public nature of these challenges can make it difficult for athletes to find the privacy and support they need to navigate difficult situations.

In some cases, the pressures of being a public figure can lead to behaviors such as substance abuse, which is often a coping mechanism for stress and emotional pain. Cleveland’s DUI arrest may be a reflection of the difficulties he was facing in his personal life, and it underscores the importance of mental health support for athletes. In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the mental health challenges faced by professional athletes, and more resources are being made available to help them cope with stress, anxiety, and personal difficulties.

Moving Forward

As of now, it remains unclear what the future holds for Ben Cleveland, both in terms of his career and personal life. The divorce proceedings will likely continue behind closed doors, and Cleveland will need to navigate the legal and emotional complexities of his separation from Sarah. Meanwhile, he will also need to focus on his career and work to regain the trust of his teammates, coaches, and fans.

The Ravens organization has stood by Cleveland, offering support and understanding as he deals with the fallout from the DUI arrest and personal issues. It is likely that the team will continue to work with Cleveland to help him get back on track, both professionally and personally. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of mental health support for athletes, as well as the challenges that come with balancing a high-profile career with personal well-being.

For Cleveland, this moment may serve as a turning point in his life. While the challenges he faces are significant, they also provide an opportunity for growth and self-reflection. With the support of his team, family, and the resources available to him, Cleveland can overcome this difficult chapter and move forward in his career and personal life.

Ben Cleveland’s DUI arrest and subsequent divorce filing have brought attention to the personal struggles that many athletes face in their lives. While the details of his marriage and legal issues remain private, the public nature of his situation highlights the challenges that come with being a professional athlete. Despite the setbacks, Cleveland has the opportunity to learn from this experience and continue to build his career and personal life. His story serves as a reminder that even the most successful athletes are not immune to the complexities of life and that support and understanding are crucial in overcoming difficult challenges.