The Baltimore Ravens anticipate a significant change to their O-line.

The Baltimore Ravens anticipate a significant change to their O-line.

The Baltimore Ravens’ Offensive Line: Anticipating Significant Change

The Baltimore Ravens are one of the most storied franchises in the NFL, known for their strong defense and commitment to the running game. However, as the NFL evolves, so too must the Ravens. Over the years, they’ve been particularly famous for their dominant offensive line play, which has been a key factor in supporting their running back talent and providing protection for the quarterback. But now, there’s an expectation that significant changes are on the horizon for the Ravens’ offensive line (O-line), which could reshape their offensive identity going forward.

In recent years, the Ravens’ O-line has faced its share of challenges, including injuries, aging veterans, and inconsistent play. Now, with a new emphasis on improving their offensive efficiency, particularly as it pertains to both the run and pass games, the team is actively working on reshaping this crucial unit.

In this article, we’ll explore the changes to the Ravens’ offensive line, analyze their current roster, identify key factors influencing their future plans, and highlight potential moves that could play a role in the team’s offensive resurgence.

The Current State of the Ravens’ Offensive Line

As of 2025, the Ravens’ offensive line features a mixture of veteran talent and younger players, but many are at critical junctures in their careers, either due to age, injury, or performance inconsistency. While the Ravens’ O-line has provided ample protection for the team’s star quarterback, Lamar Jackson, there have been noticeable issues over the past few seasons.

Key Players on the Current Offensive Line

  1. Ronnie Stanley (LT): One of the most important players on the Ravens’ offensive line, Stanley has been a consistent performer when healthy. A former first-round pick in 2016, Stanley has been one of the top left tackles in the league, providing excellent protection for Jackson’s blind side. However, injuries have derailed his career in recent seasons, and his ability to return to full health will be a major factor in the Ravens’ success going forward.
  2. Kevin Zeitler (RG): Zeitler, signed by the Ravens in 2021, has been a steady presence on the interior of the line. A seasoned veteran, Zeitler is a reliable run blocker and pass protector. At 34 years old, Zeitler’s performance is likely to decline in the coming seasons, and the Ravens may look to find his eventual replacement in the near future.
  3. Tyre Phillips (RG): Phillips, drafted in 2020, has shown flashes of potential but has struggled with consistency. His development is crucial to the Ravens’ O-line future, and if he can solidify his role at right guard, he could become a cornerstone of the unit moving forward.
  4. Morgan Moses (RT): Moses, a longtime NFL starter, came to Baltimore in 2022 to help stabilize the right tackle position. Although Moses has been solid, he is entering his age-34 season, and the Ravens will likely need to begin planning for his replacement.
  5. Linderbaum (C): Drafted in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft, Tyler Linderbaum quickly emerged as the team’s starting center. Known for his agility, quickness, and intelligence, Linderbaum is a key player for the future of the Ravens’ offensive line. His ability to control the interior and block in the run game is vital to the team’s offensive philosophy, which relies heavily on an effective ground game.

Injury Concerns and Age-Related Issues

One of the most significant issues facing the Ravens’ offensive line has been injury-related. Stanley’s injuries over the past few seasons have been especially concerning. The Ravens’ entire offensive scheme depends on the mobility of Lamar Jackson, and having a left tackle who can consistently protect his blind side is non-negotiable. Stanley’s injuries have forced the team to shuffle players around, which has created some instability.

Moreover, the team has an aging offensive line, especially on the interior. Zeitler and Moses have been solid contributors, but they are both on the back nine of their careers, and the Ravens may need to look for younger, long-term solutions soon.

Performance Inconsistency

Another area of concern for the Ravens’ offensive line has been the inconsistency in their play, particularly in the pass protection department. Lamar Jackson is known for his ability to make plays outside the pocket, but the offensive line needs to give him time to execute plays in the pocket as well. In recent seasons, Jackson has often been under duress due to breakdowns in pass protection.

The Changing Offensive Philosophy

While the Ravens have traditionally relied on a run-heavy offense, including the dynamic running ability of Lamar Jackson, the NFL has become increasingly pass-oriented. To remain competitive, especially in a division that features the high-powered offenses of teams like the Cincinnati Bengals and the Cleveland Browns, the Ravens must evolve their offensive strategy.

The Ravens’ running game will still be a critical part of their identity, but in today’s NFL, teams need to be able to move the ball effectively through the air as well. This evolution has placed an increased focus on the offensive line’s ability to protect the quarterback, particularly as the Ravens look to get more balanced in their attack.

With Lamar Jackson signing a long-term extension, the team’s offensive philosophy will likely center around his dual-threat abilities. But with the Ravens adding new weapons on the outside—like wide receiver Zay Flowers and tight end Mark Andrews—there’s a new emphasis on having a more balanced attack, utilizing both the run game and an improved passing game.

This evolution in philosophy requires a more versatile offensive line, capable of both dominating in the running game and providing Jackson with better protection in passing situations. In particular, the Ravens’ next steps will likely include focusing on improving their pass protection, particularly with Stanley’s future uncertain.

Anticipated Changes to the Offensive Line

Given the current state of the offensive line, several changes are anticipated in the near future. These changes will likely include player departures, free-agent acquisitions, and potentially the drafting of new talent to bolster the unit.

1. Rebuilding the Tackle Position

The Ravens may need to focus on rebuilding the tackle positions, particularly at left tackle. Stanley’s injury history has raised concerns, and the Ravens might look for an insurance policy or long-term solution at left tackle in the upcoming draft or free agency.

A potential strategy for Baltimore could be to target a young, dynamic tackle in the draft—someone who could eventually take over for Stanley. Given that the tackle position is one of the most crucial on the offensive line, the team may prioritize this spot in the upcoming draft class.

At right tackle, Moses’ age could force the Ravens to consider bringing in a younger player to take over the starting job. While Moses is still effective, the team must think ahead to ensure that they have long-term solutions in place.

2. Upgrading the Interior Line

The interior of the offensive line is another area where the Ravens could make significant changes. Zeitler is aging and may only have a few more years left in the league, so Baltimore may look for a younger, long-term solution at right guard. Tyre Phillips has shown potential but has not yet fully realized it, and the team may decide to move on from him if they find a better option.

The center position is in good hands with Linderbaum, but upgrading the guard positions could provide the Ravens with a more solidified interior. A new, dynamic guard could help improve the team’s overall run blocking while also providing additional pass protection stability.

3. Drafting and Developing Talent

With the Ravens’ salary cap situation remaining somewhat constrained, the team may look to the draft to address some of its offensive line needs. The 2025 draft class could provide several promising prospects on the offensive line, particularly tackles and interior linemen.

If the Ravens prioritize rebuilding their offensive line, they could target players who fit their scheme and developmental needs. A potential focus could be on finding players who excel in both the run and pass games, similar to Linderbaum, who was drafted for his ability to thrive in both.

The Baltimore Ravens are at a crossroads with their offensive line. While the team has been able to remain competitive due to a strong running game and the dynamic play of Lamar Jackson, the evolution of their offense in today’s NFL requires a more versatile and consistent offensive line. With several aging veterans, injury concerns, and inconsistent play, the Ravens are likely to undergo significant changes to their offensive line in the coming years.

Whether through free-agent acquisitions, trades, or drafting young talent, the Ravens will need to prioritize strengthening the O-line to ensure that Lamar Jackson has the support he needs to continue to thrive. As the Ravens look to balance their offense and improve in both the run and pass games, the changes to their offensive line could be the key to their continued success.

By focusing on rebuilding the tackle positions, upgrading the interior line, and developing young talent, the Ravens can create an offensive line capable of supporting their evolving offensive philosophy and continuing to compete for championships in the years to come.

 

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