The Baltimore Ravens have finally made an offensive line move in free agency (Ronnie Stanley's re-signing before free agency doesn't count), re-signing guard Ben Cleveland. It’s a depth signing, sure, but given the losses along the line, it’s a step in the right direction.
Baltimore already watched Patrick Mekari take his versatility to Jacksonville, signing a three-year, $37.5 million deal with the Jaguars. Then, backup tackle Josh Jones left for the Seattle Seahawks. That’s two depth pieces gone, and the Ravens hadn’t done much to address it—until now.
Cleveland, a former third-round pick, hasn’t been a full-time starter in Baltimore, but he’s been a reliable reserve. He saw action in all 17 games last season, though his offensive snaps were severely limited. With Mekari gone and Andrew Vorhees likely taking over at left guard (if they don't find someone else), Cleveland remains a viable insurance piece for the interior of the offensive line.
Ravens re-sign Ben Cleveland, but more work is needed
Bringing back Cleveland keeps some continuity, but it doesn’t solve Baltimore’s newest biggest problem up front: tackle depth. Mekari wasn’t just a guard—he was the Ravens’ top backup at both tackle spots. If Ronnie Stanley or Roger Rosengarten misses time, Baltimore doesn’t have a clear answer at swing tackle.
They still have Daniel Faalele, who has spent time at both tackle and guard, but last season pretty much solidified he's more guard than tackle.
The Ravens also have 11 draft picks, and at least one of those will need to be spent on an offensive lineman—preferably a tackle. Josh Conerly Jr. (Oregon), Grey Zabel (North Dakota State), Jonah Savaiinaea (Arizona, and Aireontae Ersery (Minnesota) are all solid options. They could sit behind Rosengarten and Stanley, developing behind two studs, awaiting their turn until their moment comes.
If Baltimore doesn’t want to rely solely on the draft, there are still veteran options in free agency. Brandon Scherff remains available as a potential interior upgrade, while Fred Johnson and Tyron Smith could be cheap options at tackle, but it's anyone's guess if they'd be up for a reserve role.
For now, re-signing Cleveland is a smart depth move. But if the Ravens want to keep Lamar Jackson upright in 2025, this can’t be the last addition they make to the offensive line.