John Simpson's Rise Should Give Baltimore Ravens Ease in Offensive Line Concerns

Despite losing three different starters along the offensive line, the Baltimore Ravens should not be concerned over the group in the new year.
Dec 10, 2023; Baltimore, Maryland, USA;  Baltimore Ravens place kicker Justin Tucker (9) celebrates
Dec 10, 2023; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Baltimore Ravens place kicker Justin Tucker (9) celebrates / Jessica Rapfogel-USA TODAY Sports
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Losing three starters on your offensive line is never easy. When it comes to the Baltimore Ravens, those losses could be the difference between playing home or away games in the playoffs.

Just because most teams would be worried about the impending concern over the offensive line, doesn't mean Baltimore will be, though. Their experience in churning out competitive groups despite a lack of talent in certain areas is something that has allowed them to stand above other teams.

Dec 10, 2023; Baltimore, Maryland, USA;  Baltimore Ravens place kicker Justin Tucker (9) celebrates
Dec 10, 2023; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Baltimore Ravens place kicker Justin Tucker (9) celebrates / Jessica Rapfogel-USA TODAY Sports

Take their latest example as a reason why there isn't too much concern over the Ravens O-Line.

John Simpson, once thought of as a borderline-roster player to begin with, was brought to the team two years ago, and last year developed into a full-time starter at left guard. On Monday afternoon, it was announced that of all player contracts, Simpson earned the most play-based-incentives of all players during the 2023 season.

Simpson earned an extra $974,613 - more than players like Tariq Woolen of the Seattle Seahawks, and DaRon Bland of the Dallas Cowboys. While Simpson only recorded a Pro Football Focus grade of 56.1 (average around the league). Despite the play, his ability to stay healthy, and grade highly against the run.

With Simpson managing the left side, the Ravens offensive line dominated throughout 2023, and helped the organization reach the AFC Title Game for the first time in over 10 years. While the Ravens do have some concerns in how they'll replace not only Simpson but Kevin Zeitler and Morgan Moses, it's important to remember one key thing.

Simpson was on his way out of the NFL and improved his game with Baltimore. There's no reason to think the Ravens can't do that again with their current offensive line.


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Nick Faria

NICK FARIA