Ravens Remain Confident in Their Interior Offensive Line and You Should Too

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The Baltimore Ravens have had a long-standing reputation for being a team that places a strong emphasis on their running game. With this in mind, it's only natural that the strength of the team's offensive line is crucial to their success on the field. However, as the 2021 NFL season approaches, there have been concerns raised about the interior offensive line of the Ravens. Despite these concerns, the Ravens remain confident in their line, and fans should too.

Missing Pieces

One of the primary reasons for the concern surrounding the Ravens' interior offensive line is the departure of several key players. Pro Bowl guard Marshal Yanda decided to retire after the 2019 season, leaving a significant void in the Ravens' line. This loss was further compounded by the departure of center Matt Skura in free agency. Skura, despite dealing with some injury issues, had been a reliable presence on the line for the Ravens.

With these departures, it's understandable that fans and analysts alike would express concern about the Ravens' interior offensive line. After all, losing players of Yanda and Skura's caliber could leave any team scrambling to find suitable replacements. However, the Ravens have taken proactive steps to address these losses and remain optimistic about their prospects for the upcoming season.

Trusting the Process

Despite the departures of Yanda and Skura, the Ravens have shown faith in their ability to develop and cultivate talent from within the organization. Rather than panicking and making rash decisions in free agency or the draft, the team has taken a strategic approach to addressing the situation. This approach includes relying on the talent already on the roster and providing opportunities for younger players to step up and make an impact.

One example of this approach is the Ravens' decision to move Bradley Bozeman, who previously played left guard, to the center position. While some may view this as a risky move, the team has expressed confidence in Bozeman's ability to handle the transition. Bozeman has already garnered significant experience playing alongside the likes of Yanda and Skura and embodies the toughness and work ethic that the Ravens value in their offensive linemen. This move shows that the team is willing to adapt and make the necessary adjustments to ensure the continued success of their offensive line.

Additionally, the Ravens have also focused on adding depth and competition to their interior offensive line through the draft. The team selected guard Ben Cleveland out of Georgia in the third round of the 2021 NFL Draft. Cleveland brings a physical playing style and a strong work ethic to the table, and the Ravens are eager to see how he develops and competes for a starting role.

Stability at Tackle

While the concerns about the interior offensive line are valid, it's important to recognize that the Ravens have stability and talent at the tackle positions. Ronnie Stanley, one of the premier left tackles in the league, is expected to return from injury and reclaim his spot as a cornerstone of the Ravens' offensive line. On the right side, the team has high hopes for Orlando Brown Jr., who has proven to be a reliable and capable tackle throughout his young career.

The presence of Stanley and Brown provides a strong foundation for the Ravens' offensive line. Their skill and experience will be invaluable in helping to alleviate some of the concerns about the interior line. Additionally, their ability to protect the quarterback and open up running lanes will play a significant role in the success of the Ravens' offense as a whole.

Trusting the Coaching Staff

Aside from the talent already on the roster, the Ravens' coaching staff also deserves recognition for their ability to develop and maximize the potential of their players. Offensive line coach Joe D'Alessandris has earned a reputation for getting the most out of his linemen and preparing them to succeed at the professional level. His track record of developing talent and getting the best out of his players provides further reason to be optimistic about the Ravens' interior offensive line.

Furthermore, the coaching staff's ability to adapt and adjust their schemes to play to the strengths of their personnel is a critical factor in the success of the offensive line. The Ravens are well aware of the challenges they face with the departure of Yanda and Skura, and they have undoubtedly put in the work to make sure that the transition is as seamless as possible for the players stepping into new roles.

Future Outlook

As the 2021 NFL season approaches, the concerns about the Ravens' interior offensive line are understandable. However, it's important to recognize that the team has taken deliberate and calculated steps to address these concerns. The decision to promote from within, add talented young players through the draft, and trust in the coaching staff all point to a proactive and optimistic approach to the situation.

It's also crucial to remember that the NFL offseason is a time of transition and change for every team. The Ravens are not alone in facing challenges and uncertainties, and they have shown the resilience and adaptability to overcome obstacles in the past. As the season progresses, the team's confidence in their interior offensive line should serve as a source of reassurance for fans.

Ultimately, the Ravens' interior offensive line remains a work in progress, but there are reasons to be optimistic about its potential. The team's solid foundation at the tackle positions, the coaching staff's commitment to developing talent, and the proactive steps taken to address the losses of key players all indicate that the Ravens are well-prepared for the challenges that lie ahead. As fans, it's important to remain patient and optimistic, trusting in the team's process and the competitive spirit that has defined the Ravens for decades.