4 young Ravens players whose roster spots are in jeopardy
By Justin Fried
2. Ben Powers, OG, Ravens
Perhaps no position is in more dire need of addressing this offseason than the offensive line. If Bozeman walks, the Ravens could realistically have three positions in need of fixing in the offseason.
One of those is left guard. The Ravens utilized a few players at the position in 2021, one of whom was former fourth-round pick Ben Powers.
Powers has been a capable fringe starter over the last two seasons starting 19 of his last 29 games since 2020. But the former Oklahoma standout has failed to establish himself as a viable starting-caliber player.
He’s not a bad player, but the Ravens would prefer to upgrade at the position going into 2022. Perhaps that player is already on the roster.
2021 third-round pick Ben Cleveland was hindered by injuries as a rookie, but the Ravens could love to give him more opportunities in 2022. The same could be said for Tyre Phillips who has rotated between guard and tackle for most of his career.
The Ravens see Phillips as more of a guard, but injuries have forced the former third-round pick to jump from position to position. Many in the organization believe that he could be a full-time starter if he stuck to one spot on the offensive line.
The Ravens could also look to free agency or the draft in search of an upgrade. What makes Powers’ job in jeopardy is that the cap-strapped Ravens could release their former mid-round pick and save nearly $3 million in cap space.
It’s more likely that Powers returns and competes for a roster spot this summer, but don’t rule out the team drafting his replacement either.