The Fix is In: Ravens Trade for Monroe, Instantly Upgrade Offense
By Joe Pistorio
Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports
The web is abuzz about the Ravens acquiring offensive left tackle, Eugene Monroe from the Jacksonville Jaguars for draft picks. The move is expected to become official once Monroe passes a physical.
This probably signals the end of Bryant McKinnie as a Baltimore Raven.
McKinnie, who was a bench warmer for the Ravens last season, had an opportunity to play and shined in the playoffs. But like a one-hit-wonder, McKinnie’s play this season has been at the bottom of the charts and a big part of the lack of success we’ve had in the run game, ranked 28th and averaging just 64 yards per game. The fact the Ravens were willing to mortgage some of their future for one player tells me Ozzie and John had no faith McKinnie would ever regain his post-season form from last season.
Monroe, who was drafted in the first round by Jacksonville in 2009, brings multiple tools McKinnie never could to the Ravens – consistency, technique and durability. He’s started the past 30 games for the Jags, who are likely looking to dump more talent and load up on draft picks.
As bad as things looked just a few days ago after the Ravens lost to the Bills, the football gods seem to be smiling on us again. We finally have a proven left tackle in Monroe; Jacoby Jones is practicing and Ray Rice is getting healthier by the minute. If Dennis Pitta heals overnight, we’ll know Ozzie really is a wizard!
Bring on the Dolphins!